Lake Mulwala to benefit from foreshore protection, tourism boost

Published on 10 May 2019

Further works will be undertaken over winter to improve and protect the foreshore of Lake Mulwala from erosion as well as deliver a key project to boost Yarrawonga’s tourism potential.

This Stage 3 foreshore protection works mark the final stage in the development of the Yarrawonga Tourism Trail, a shared pathway improving pedestrian access from the current traffic bridge on the foreshore through to the Silverwoods development.

The project, auspiced by Moira Shire Council, is jointly funded by the Federal Government’s Regional Jobs and Investment Packages, Murray Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) and Lotus Living, Moira Shire Mayor Libro Mustica said.

“Once these stabilisation and pathway works are complete, the tourism trail will provide safe, off-road passage offering picturesque and uninterrupted views across Lake Mulwala for the thousands of tourists who visit the region each year,” he said.

Stage 1 works, comprising 160m of retaining wall, was completed in 2015 along Bank St in Yarrawonga. Stage 2, comprising a further 160m, was completed in 2018 along River Rd.

Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) has been requested to manage the design and construction process of the Stage 3 works. They extend from the vicinity of Hawkins Dr to the Yacht Club boat ramp and include:

• Additional foreshore protection via retaining wall (length 360m)

• Shared path 2.5m width (about 500m)

• Barrier kerb along River Rd (about 500m)

“Last year’s works took place during the drawdown of Lake Mulwala from May to July,” GMW Manager Dam Operations Tony Beamish said.

“While convenient, lowering the lake is not necessary for these works which can be completed with the same level of safety and effectiveness at the current lake level.”

Mr Beamish said GMW will be using special equipment to install steel sheet piling for the retaining wall, designed to minimise noise and vibration compared to other construction options.

GMW is committed to minimising any inconvenience caused by construction for residents fronting the River Rd works. A small number of residents who are foreshore licence holders will be personally consulted with respect to the temporary removal and replacement of jetties.

Like Stages 1 and 2, foreshore willow trees will be removed as part of the Stage 3 works and replaced with advanced native species. These willows are mature trees near the end of their natural life.

GMW is planning preliminary works during winter, with the retaining wall construction taking place in Spring with some final landscaping.

“These improvements guard against foreshore erosion and ensure the ongoing enjoyment and safety of recreational users while safeguarding water quality and environmental values of the lake,” Mr Beamish said.

Mr Mustica said the tourism trail will benefit both residents and visitors to Yarrawonga.

“This development will help Yarrawonga unlock its potential by investing in a key project to support the town’s economic future.”

GMW contact:           Richard Bryce

Unit:                             Communications and Engagement

Telephone:                  0403 144 941

Moira Shire contact:  Fiona Blick

Unit:                             Governance and Communication

Telephone:                  0427 560 787