³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾

The restoration of Blind Creek and Lewis Park, at the base of the Dandenong Ranges, is now in full swing.

Minister for Water Harriet Shing inspected progress on the Reimagining Blind Creek project today, which received $2.5 million in funding as part of the Andrews Labor Government’s Integrated Water Management Program.

Reimagining Blind Creek is transforming the existing underground drain and retarding basin at Lewis Park in Wantirna South, significantly improving the waterway and environment for the community to enjoy.

A 1.65km section of Blind Creek is being transformed into three wetlands, two harvesting ponds, a range of paths, a boardwalk and other assets like park benches and steppingstones.

The project will create an open space for community activity and wellbeing and will improve waterway health into Port Phillip Bay and Dandenong Creek.

It will also provide future opportunities to harvest and irrigate local sports ovals with treated stormwater.

Construction started in early 2023, and the main delivery of the works will be staged over three summers to minimise risk of unfavourable wet weather conditions.

The project is a collaboration between the Labor Government, Melbourne Water, Knox City Council, and with Traditional Owners.

It is part of Melbourne Water’s Reimagining Your Creek Program, which transforms stormwater drains and concrete channels into natural waterways and open spaces.

The program has transformed sections of Tarralla Creek in Croydon, Arnolds Creek in Melton West, and an upstream section of Blind Creek in Boronia.

As stated by Minister for Water Harriet Shing

“We are co-investing in priority projects across Melbourne and regional Victoria, such as the Blind Creek corridor, to boost our water security and improve the liveability of our cities and towns.”

“The project will complement the significant investments being made onsite by both Knox City Council through the Lewis Park Masterplan and the Government to support the creation of a community hub.“

As stated by Member for Bayswater Jackson Taylor

“It’s exciting to see the next phase of works on the project underway, once complete this will completely transform the old drainage area into 33 hectares of green open space for the local community to enjoy.”

As stated by Melbourne Water Executive General Manager Customer, Community and External Affairs Gavan O’Neil

“The project will support other Melbourne Water programs through the delivery of flood mitigation, urban cooling, open space activation, water quality improvements and improved biodiversity.”