The future of the Birrarung (Yarra River) has taken a step ahead with the Government improving native habitat along the river as part of the Yarra Strategic Plan known as Burndap Birrarung burndap umarkoo.
Announced by the Minister for Water, Harriet Shing, $1.65 million has been allocated for transformative projects that enhance collaboration between agencies, the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Bunurong Traditional Owners and community groups to better protect and manage the Birrarung.
Ms Shing said the funding would lead to strengthening the habitat values through a river wide planting program, designed and implemented in consultation with its Traditional Owners.
She said the Government had contributed over $2.7 million in transformative projects through the Yarra Strategic Plan to bring to life the 50-year Community Vision and Traditional Owner aspirations to help the Yarra River thrive into the future.
“The Birrarung is home to native wildlife, with more than 150 species of birds, platypus, koalas, echidnas and more calling it home,” Ms Shing said.
“Enhancing vegetation along the river will improve water quality and habitat connectivity, helping these species to survive and flourish” she said.
“The Birrarung is the lifeblood of our city and this important work being led by Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Bunurong Traditional Owners will ensure it can continue to be enjoyed now and into the future.”
She said the plan, which was the first step towards achieving the agreed 50-year community vision for the Birrarung, was launched in February of last year, ensuring the river and its lands were protected as one living and integrated natural entity.
“Implementation of the plan is a partnership with Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Bunurong Traditional Owners agencies, the community and the Birrarung Council,” Ms Shing said.
“The Birrarung Council is the independent voice of the river – an independent advisory body established by the Minister to advocate for the river’s protection,” she said.
“This 10-year plan is the first of its kind for Victoria. It brings statutory planning and land and waterway management together for the first time, setting out directions for future land use and development for the entire river corridor,” the Minister for Water said.
