What is creek or river bank naturalisation?
Naturalisation can take different forms. It generally involves removing some or all of the steep concrete banks and creating a more gently sloping bank. The bank is then stabilised with native plants, trees and rocks.
Naturalisation creates a softer landscape feel and greatly improves the riverbank habitat for native birds and other animals.
Wetlands can also be established as part of the naturalisation process. Wetlands have a significant role in improving the river’s ecology and health by treating stormwater run-off from streets and industrial areas before it enters the river.
Why can’t we naturalise all concrete creek and river banks?
We can only naturalise banks that have deteriorated and where we have enough space and a suitable budget to do the work.
Will naturalisation make flooding worse?
During the design of the project, extensive investigations are done to identify any problems. We 'test' the design and how it would work through different levels of flooding. Naturalisations either maintain the existing flood capacity of the creek or improve it slightly.
Will the naturalisation provide a home for unwanted pests?
The naturalisation won't increase mosquito or rat problems. Creek banks are designed to build a balanced ecosystem which will manage populations of pests and support native wildlife.