Weeds will be removed along a two-and-a-half kilometre stretch of the Merri River between Cassadys Bridge (Caramaut Road) and the Wollaston Bridge. The area will be revegetated with 7740 indigenous plants. Fencing will be erected to protect plants from livestock.

The Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority (CMA) has contributed $26,075 towards the project, secured via the state government. 

Warrnambool City Council is supporting the project and the Warrnambool Coastcare Landcare Network volunteers and landholders will contribute $34,000 of in-kind support.

Chairman of the Warrnambool Coastcare Landcare Network Bruce Campbell said the project would help improve water quality and river habitat. 

“What we are working towards with public and private landowners is to remove weeks and restore native vegetation for the benefit of both humans – in terms of water quality and fish – and wildlife,” Mr Campbell said. 

Landholder and Managing Director of Ryans Group Graham Ryan said his company was keen to become involved in the project because of the environmental benefit, helping return it to “what it should be”.

Land in Warrnambool development manager Sam Stevens said his company, which was developing land to the north of the Merri River, wanted to beautify the area around the river for residents.