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<strong>FOLKC</strong> recently submitted a plan to HBCC to at least improve the aesthetics of the area<br />
by extending the existing Williamstown Wetlands plantings to encompass the mouth,<br />
and replacing one of the derelict buildings with a far more suitable large bird-hide. The<br />
mouth of Kororoit Creek might then be transformed into an important environmental<br />
feature of Port Phillip Bay.<br />
The scenic side of the Kororoit Creek mouth<br />
KOROROIT CREEK MOUTH<br />
The mouth of Kororoit Creek, located at the bottom of Maddox Road, Williamstown<br />
North, could be one of the most outstanding locations in Hobsons Bay, with its expansive<br />
views across Port Phillip Bay, along with its unique bird life and the native mangrove<br />
plants, which are beginning to reappear along the restored Creek banks. However, at<br />
present, the mouth and its surroundings are a complete disgrace. This area is constantly<br />
littered with rubbish, both in and out of the water, and subsequently infested with weeds,<br />
and favoured only as a home to dumped vehicles and derelict buildings.<br />
Plan of works for proposed bird hide<br />
In 2007, I requested then-EPA Chairman Mick Bourke to consider permitting dredging<br />
at the mouth. However, after consideration, EPA Victoria decided that, as heavy<br />
metal contaminants had been deposited and had accumulated there due to previously<br />
polluting industrial activity upstream, it would be better to leave existing contaminants<br />
undisturbed to prevent them from entering Port Phillip Bay. Yet, these contaminants<br />
are a fact and I fail to see how simply turning a blind eye will ever solve the long-term,<br />
deep-rooted poisoning of this part of the Creek and its surrounds, or its local reputation.<br />
Proposed concept<br />
boardwalk<br />
leading to a<br />
large bird hide<br />
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