Current
Our rivers and creeks are essential to our way of life and the plants and animals that depend on them. That’s why at Melbourne Water we’re working to improve the health of a section of Merri Creek in Campbellfield.
From February to May 2026, we are removing large woody weeds along a 500m stretch of the creek. Removing these weeds will make way for native plants to grow and create more habitat for our native animals to thrive.
To help protect sensitive cultural heritage areas we are using a special ‘Spider excavator’ which runs on 4 wheels to minimise potential ground disturbance.
Why this project is important
This section of Merri Creek is home to the endangered Growling Grass Frog whose habitat is threatened by invasive woody weeds such as Desert Ash. Once widespread across south-eastern Australia, growling grass frog numbers have reduced due to urbanisation, altered hydrology, disease, and drought. Removing weeds exposes pools in the creek to sunlight which creates warm basking areas for the frogs.
This project is supported by the Victorian Government's Suburban Grant Program and is a priority project under the marram baba Merri Creek Regional Parklands Partnership.
Local impacts
Visitors to the area may notice tree removal of the targeted large woody weeds and some mechanical noise during the works. Signage and safety measures will be in place around the works.
