A concrete channel for stormwater that runs from Strathmore to Flemington Road is to become a leafy and healthy waterway thanks to Melbourne Water and the Chain of Ponds Collaboration.
The second stage of works at Moonee Ponds Creek will expand on a 350-metre-long section from Strathmore and Oak Park to Lebanon Reserve to create a natural-looking amenity in the middle of the city. The new concept design will start this year, with delivery planned between 2026 and 2028.
The work to reinvigorate the creek includes replacing concrete blocks that were installed between the 1940s and 1970s with natural rockwork and planting aquatic vegetation to help slow water flow which improves the overall health of the creek.
Trees and shrubs along new shared paths will provide additional shade and cooling, while new public gathering spaces, including an amphitheater, are set to be completed later this year.
The Chain of Ponds Collaboration brings together over a dozen organizations, including four local councils, three water authorities, community advocates, and environmental groups.
Local and Traditional Owner knowledge, along with community feedback, has been instrumental in shaping the creek’s design.
Moonee Ponds Creek, located on Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung land, holds significant cultural importance. The project features an interpretive trail that allows visitors to explore the creek while learning about its cultural significance to Traditional Owners.
This initiative is funded by a $11.4 million contribution from Melbourne Water’s Reimagining Your Creek Program and $5 million from the Australian Government’s Urban Rivers and Catchments Program.
Thorough flood modeling has been conducted to ensure that there is no increased flooding risk to the local community or downstream areas.
For more information, visit melbournewater.com.au.
