Early works and investigations
Construction Update
The first stage of the Mill Park Wetlands upgrade in the Lakes Reserve is nearing completion.
To date the works have:
- Completed the removal of over 20,000 tonnes of sediment and vegetation from within the wetlands to improve the flow of water.
- Reshaped the contours of the wetlands and constructed new drainage at the inlets and outlets of wetlands.
- Imported and placed over 12,000 cubic metres of topsoil, with 60,000 square metres of jute matting and jute mesh.
Further works to be completed as part of the project in August include the construction of new construction paths around the wetlands, including seating areas and public spaces. Reinstating the grassed areas around the wetlands and the final demobilisation of the Findon Road site compound. Fencing will be removed over the coming months as the parklands and footpaths are reopened to the public. Some temporary fencing will remain in place to allow the grassed areas to re-establish. Update current as of 19/06/25
To continue our vital work of safeguarding our waterways, Melbourne Water is enhancing the Mill Park Wetlands, located in The Lakes Reserve in South Morang.
About this project
A constructed wetland is a series of shallow, densely planted, man-made ponds that help filter stormwater. Wetlands act like ecological kidneys, filtering out pollutants that wash into stormwater from roads, concrete, parks and gardens. This project will make sure that the Mill Park Lakes and Wetlands keep working the way they were meant to, filtering out nitrogen and harmful pollutants and keeping our rivers and creeks healthy.
Why is this work necessary?
Upgrade works will ensure that the Mill Park lakes and wetlands function effectively and provide high quality stormwater treatment.
- The wetland levels are being adjusted to create a healthy environment for plants to thrive.
- 120,000 additional plants will be added to the wetlands to filter water and improve the water quality.
What do the works involve?
- Removing vegetation within the current wetland where it is creating bottlenecks and preventing water flow.
- Reducing the water level of the lakes, temporarily drying the wetlands, so work can be completed.
- Reshaping the base of the wetlands with machinery to reduce water depth and support plant growth.
- Upgrading the wetland inlets, outlets and pipes to renew old infrastructure and better manage water flow.
- Revegetating the wetlands with new plants which will support the filtering of pollutants.
Local impacts
We will make every effort to minimise the impact of these essential works on the local community and the environment. However, during construction you may notice:
- Closures of some paths around the wetlands
- Noise from construction activity
- Dust
- Increased truck movements
- Some odour as stockpiled sediment dries out
- Removal of some vegetation.
Working hours
The majority of the works will be completed during standard construction hours of Monday to Friday, between 7am and 6pm, and Saturdays from 7am to 1pm.
We do not anticipate any impact on your water or sewerage services during these works.
Late 2023
August 2025
Stage 1: Completion of all works prior to re-vegetation of the wetlands.
September 2026
Stage 2: Revegetating the wetlands. Over 120,000 wetland plants are expected to be planted between September and November 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a wetland?
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Wetlands are not merely constructed lakes. They have a specific function in removing pollutants from stormwater. Without wetlands, pollutants would flow directly into Darebin Creek and the Yarra River, and eventually into Port Phillip and Westernport bays, where they can be more harmful to the community and environment.
- How is a wetland different from a lake or pond?
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Many new developments have wetlands, which provide open spaces for the community. They also play an important role in stormwater treatment. Unlike lakes or ponds, wetlands remove pollutants from stormwater before it reaches rivers, creeks and eventually the ocean.
- What are the benefits of healthy wetlands?
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Healthy wetlands are good for the environment and the community in many ways. They:
- Improve the health of our local waterways.
- Encourage biodiversity and a place for native plants and animals to thrive.
- Make the area more attractive, creating a place where people can exercise, explore and relax.
- Why will vegetation need to be removed to upgrade the wetlands?
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Where vegetation is creating a bottleneck and preventing water from flowing, it will need to be removed. We are working with the council to obtain a planning permit.
- How will removed vegetation be reinstated?
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Yes, where vegetation has to be removed, replacement vegetation will be planted on the embankment as close to its original position as possible.
Community bulletins and updates
Keep up to date
We are committed to keeping the community updated as the project progresses. As updates become available, we will communicate with residents and businesses about the works through door knocks, letters, phone calls and site signage. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact the project team: