Kororoit Creek is a major waterway in Melbourne’s north-west region, and is approximately 80km in length. Its upper reaches begin near the township of Sunbury and in this rural setting the creek retains many of its iconic river red gums and important historic sites. As it traverses Melbourne’s Urban Growth Boundary and into new suburbs such as Caroline Springs and Cairnlea, good planning has meant the creek has retained many of its natural values and has also become a focus for these new communities. From here the creek meanders into the older suburbs of Sunshine and Deer Park established in the 1950’s and although the creek has been altered, it still remains a significant area of open space for the surrounding residents. Crossing over into Brooklyn and Altona, larger industry begins to dominate the creek landscape before the creek enters Port Philip Bay between Williamstown and Altona. Intensive work by many stakeholders over the last ten years has seen a vast improvement in the many natural and recreational values of the creek and a change in how the local communities value the Kororoit Creek Corridor
Like all waterways in cities, Kororoit Creek plays many roles - it helps to drain stormwater to prevent homes from flooding; it provides habitat for local native flora and fauna; it connects communities; and it provides a place to relax and get back in touch with nature. Because it serves many functions, many different organisations and individuals have a role to play or an interest in the creek.
The Kororoit Creek Catchment Coordination Project will explore the best way to keep all the different stakeholders in touch with one-another's work and ensure everyone works together to achieve the vision for the creek outlined in the Kororoit Creek Regional Strategy 2005-2030.
A Kororoit Creek Catchment Coordinator has been appointed to assist with the project. All of the Friends Groups, the Landcare Groups, the four Councils, Melbourne Water,Werribee Plains Waterwatch, Parks Victoria and the Department of Sustainability and Environment and others are involved with the project via the Steering Committee. The model established for Kororoit Creek will be helpful for other creeks in the region.
The overall aim of the project is to develop a framework to ensure there is an ongoing, coordinated approach to caring for the creek.
For further information contact Kororoit Creek Catchment Coordinator Vince Andreana by phone on 9932 1142 or 0447 513 548, or use our contact form.
Key dates during July:
