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FOLKC Book

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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 />

108 109

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