Revamped: The Coliban River catchment after receiving works to improve how the river and its tributaries work for the community.
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A five-year program aiming to revitalise one of the region’s most critical waterway systems, the Coliban River catchment, concluded last year.
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The program began in 2018 and concluded in 2023, aiming to protect water quality, fauna and flora, and the cultural history of the Coliban River and its tributaries upstream of Malmsbury Reservoir.
Over the past five years, the project has managed or funded:
38 kilometres of fencing.
296 hectares of weed control.
76 hectares of revegetation.
78 off-stream watering systems.
Project Manager Tess Grieves from the North Central CMA said the program had returned impressive results.
Stunning: The Coliban River just downstream of Upper Coliban Reservoir after years of hard work.
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“We’re excited with what has been achieved by working together with, and alongside, councils, landholders and community groups, especially given the challenges of COVID-19,” Ms Grieves said.
“These waterways are important ecologically, culturally and economically. They provide an essential raw water supply turned into drinking water for more than 130,000 people from Kyneton to Bendigo. They are home to a range of critical species and culturally significant areas.
“So doing what we can to protect, restore, and enhance them is important.”
Coliban Water Manager Land, Water and Environment Phillip Fasham said the benefits from the project continue to enhance our environment and ensure the long-term sustainability of the Upper Coliban catchment.
“This has been a joint effort for the region, and it demonstrates the commitment of the local community and partners,” Mr Fasham said.
“AHCC is a 20-year plan with a strong vision, and we’re excited to see what else we can achieve in coming years.”
The program also supports the Dja Dja Wurrung people in reconnecting with the landscape and waterways, which hold significant cultural value.
A Healthy Coliban Catchment (AHCC) is a joint project between Coliban Water, Djaara, and North Central Catchment Management Authority (CMA).
The AHCC project plan has been developed for implementation over 20 years, with an estimated cost of $10.81 million over the first 15 years.
The AHCC is funded by the Victorian Government’s Our Catchments, Our Communities program, Coliban Water, and the North Central CMA.
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