Survey defines river hazard

A Parks Victoria survey has found that the Yarra River is less than three-metres deep at some points near Yarra’s Edge.

The area between Yarra’s Edge and Collins Landing has become notorious amongst boat operators for its high levels of silt, with many now avoiding the area.

The issue of silting at Yarra’s Edge was highlighted in early 2012 when a Port of Melbourne fire-fighting tugboat ran aground while attempting to put out a boat fire.

The survey of the Yarra’s Edge area, which was part of a wider look at the Yarra and Maribyrnong rivers, was completed in September last year and found that the deepest water level was 7.9 metres.

A Parks Victoria spokesperson said silting in both rivers was the result of a natural build up of sand, silt or other materials deposited as a result of the rivers water flow.

According to the spokesperson, Parks Victoria is now analysing the results of the survey to determine priority areas where dredging may be required, the most effective techniques to use and the potential cost.

The party responsible for carrying out the dredging remains unclear because multiple groups have different levels of agency over the waterways.

The Parks Victoria spokesperson confirmed the organisation would work with the Port of Melbourne Corporation, City of Melbourne, Melbourne Water and the Environmental Protection Authority to determine a sustainable long-term dredging strategy that achieved safe boating access and sound environmental outcomes.

The spokesperson was unable to comment on when dredging of the Yarra’s Edge area was expected to start.