The Maribyrnong River and Waterways Association has issued a response to the recent findings from the Melbourne Water flood inquiry.
Maribyrnong coordinator Dr Nicole Kowalczy said the organisation acknowledges the necessity of effective flood mitigation and management, in tandem with protections and actions that restore the river to full health.
“The Maribyrnong River is not merely a body of water; it is a lifeline for our ecosystem, a sanctuary for biodiversity, and a source of immeasurable beauty and cultural significance,” said Ms Kowalczy.
“In times when we tend to rely on dams and levees to shield us from floods, it is crucial to remember that these structures can sometimes provide a false sense of security.
“Yes, dams and levees may reduce the frequency of floods, but they can exacerbate the consequences of large floods by encouraging urban expansion into floodplains.“
Ms Kowalczy said the ecological consequences of dams cannot be overlooked.
“They can disrupt the river’s natural flow, harm aquatic habitats, and negatively impact the delicate balance of our ecosystem.”
MRWA said it believes it is essential to explore alternatives that prioritise both flood mitigation, management, and environmental preservation.
Nature-based solutions, such as wetland restoration, soil regeneration to increase the absorptive capacity of soils in the Maribyrnong catchment, and tighter planning controls, offer additional avenues to mitigate flood risks while nurturing the health of the Maribyrnong River.
“The fundamentally overlooked value of rivers and their floodplains is the natural flood control they provide when left with some of their natural environment intact,” said Ms Kowalczy.
“Given enough forest, wetlands, and floodplain, rivers have a remarkable capacity to absorb rainfall and runoff.“
MRWA urges all stakeholders to come together to explore solutions that work in tandem with the environment.
Founded in 2022, the Maribyrnong River and Waterways Association (MRWA) is a values- driven community-based organisation that advocates for the health of rivers and creeks in the Maribyrnong catchment.
“We advocate for the river itself, for the communities that depend on it, and for the myriad of health and well-being benefits that come with our interaction with the waterways and surrounding parklands.
“MRWA brings the needs of the river into the public domain, challenges the community and government to act and puts forward pathways for action.”
