Community feedback invited on proposed litter trap to help keep the Yarrowee clean

The City of Ballarat is inviting community members to provide their feedback on a planned litter trap aimed at significantly improving the health of the Yarrowee River.

The planned litter trap is designed to capture and prevent more than 70 per cent of rubbish, debris and other pollutants from flowing through the river system using proven Gross Pollutant Trap technology. Construction of a Gross Pollutant Trap in the precinct was identified in the Yarrowee River Master Plan 2020.

Litter traps are used across Australia and world-wide to remove rubbish and pollutants from rivers and waterways, which improves water quality and benefits plants and animals.  

The planned litter trap is proposed to be installed 1.5 kilometres downstream from the city centre to intercept urban litter, sticks and branches, sediment and stormwater pollution at a key point in the catchment.

Based on an engineering assessment, it is proposed to be located near the Sunnyside Mill precinct, where it can connect to the end of the bluestone stormwater channel.  

The Yarrowee River is a valued natural asset, running through the heart of Ballarat and providing important environmental, recreational and cultural benefits.

The $2.3 million initiative, fully-funded by the City of Ballarat in the 2024/25 Budget, is a significant sustainability initiative that will improve environmental outcomes to the Yarrowee River and the Leigh and Barwon Rivers downstream.

It will also improve recreational enjoyment of the Yarrowee River and boost the effectiveness of other downstream waterway restoration projects.

City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves encouraged residents to provide their feedback on the concept designs for the litter trap.

“The Yarrowee River is an important natural asset for our city – environmentally, culturally and recreationally,” she said.

“This proposed litter trap is a practical way we can reduce pollution and protect the river for future generations.”

Community members can view the concept designs and provide feedback online at mysay.ballarat.vic.gov.au/yarrowee-river-stormwater-litter-trap or attend drop-in information sessions being held on:

• Wednesday 7 May, from 3.30-5.30pm - at the Yarrowee River (see location below)
• Saturday 10 May, from 10am-2pm – at the Yarrowee River (see location below)
• Thursday 15 May, from 4-7pm - at the Let’s Chat Councillor Roadshow for the Golden Point Ward at Llanberris Athletics Reserve Club Rooms.

The Yarrowee River pop-up sessions will be held at the site of the planned litter trap, along the Wallaby Track at the Yarrowee River, 250m south of Hill Street, Mount Pleasant. Off-street parking is available on Hill Street, near the intersection of Humffray Street South.

The consultation closes 5pm, Sunday 25 May.