New Booklet Delves Deep Into Dandenong Creek
NEW BOOKLET DELVES DEEP INTO DANDENONG CREEK
Did you know:
- The name Dandenong means high or lofty?
- Average annual rainfall in the catchment ranges from 560mm to 1123mm?
- Dandenong red gums were used to build Melbourne wharves?
Visitors to Dandenong Creek can become full bottle on the wildlife, geography and history of the waterway following the release of a free booklet.
Know Your Creek – Dandenong Creek traces the history of the 53-kilometre waterway and chronicles the many species of animals and plants that live there.
The 64-page publication also explains how stormwater pollution enters and affects the creek environment, how people can help protect the waterway, and Melbourne Water's flood protection role in the Dandenong catchment.
General Manager of Waterways, Chris Chesterfield, said the Dandenong was a valuable natural asset, which was reflected by the level of interest and support by volunteers who dedicated much time to helping look after the creek.
“Our role is to improve the health, amenity and water quality of waterways, but we are also about engaging the community and being a source of information about local rivers and creeks," said Mr Chesterfield.
“Whether you visit Dandenong Creek to relax on the banks, walk the dog or have a spot of fishing, the booklet is a great resource to broaden people's knowledge of this local icon."
Barry Robinson, one of the founding members of First Friends of Dandenong Creek, said community groups played an important role in looking after the creek.
“Together with other local groups, we have taken a leading role in caring for Dandenong Creek," said Mr Robinson.
“Between us and Knox Environment Society we test 11 sites a month and send results to Melbourne Water's Waterwatch program so we can monitor changes in water quality over time.
“We've planted almost 15,000 trees with Maroondah and Knox councils, distribute newsletters, flyers and bird lists and talk to schools and communities about the creek."
To order a free copy of Know Your Creek – Dandenong Creek call Melbourne Water on 131 722 or email inquiry@melbournewater.com.au
Media Contact: Nicolas McGay, Melbourne Water - (03) 9235 2278; 0438 981 836