A section of a creek in Melbourne’s outer east, hidden away for more than half a century, has sprung back to life and created a new public space for people to relax and unwind amongst nature.

Thanks to Melbourne Water’s “Reimagining Your Creek” program, a 650-metre section of Blind Creek at Boronia between Scoresby Road and Manuka Drive has been restored from an underground pipe into a more natural waterway.

Works began in October 2019 to create this fantastic natural space, incorporating a contemporary urban design, for the local community to explore and enjoy. It is already proving a popular location among the locals to relax and meet.

Both banks of the creek have also been transformed with the planting of 60,000 native trees and shrubs – all sourced from local nurseries.

New pathways, stepping stones across the creek and a pedestrian bridge have been built to enhance public access to the area.

The $2.7 million project was delivered in a partnership between Melbourne Water, South East Water, Knox City Council, and the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning.

Residents and community groups were instrumental in the project to revive and revitalise the creek, which was piped underground and out of the sight in the 1960s and flows into Dandenong Creek near Jells Park, Wheelers Hill.

The project aligns with the State Government’s Integrated Water Management Program by providing the community with water, protection from floods, improved interaction with healthy waterways and benefits from cooler, greener cities and healthier environments.

Quotes attributable to Member for Bayswater Jackson Taylor MP

“I’m stoked that the daylighting of Blind Creek has been complete for the whole community to enjoy – including a lot of ducks who now call it home!”

“I’ve visited the newly daylighted Blind Creek almost once a week over the past few months, and it’s been incredible to see how many families and groups enjoying this focal point of our community.”

“I want to acknowledge the work that Knox Council have done in partnership with the State Government in transforming this section of Blind Creek, and I’m looking forward to seeing this work continue.”