Cleaning underway after sewer leak

Barwon Water has contained a sewer spill and is cleaning the affected area near Barwon Valley Park in Belmont.

A part of Barwon Valley Park is closed, as crews work across the weekend to clean the impacted area and restore public access.

Barwon Water has advised river users to take a safety-first approach and avoid the river, as we monitor water quality results over the coming days.

The community is asked to avoid contact with the affected location until it is safe to access. This includes the Barwon River, while we monitor water quality results.

The sewer blockage and leak occurred this morning. It was likely caused by a combination of tree roots, a build-up of non-flushable wet wipes getting stuck in the system and was likely exacerbated by the recent extreme weather.

The blockage has been resolved, and crews are currently on site undertaking the necessary clean. The impacted areas have been closed off to the public and we ask the community to follow any direction or signage in the park.

We apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused.

We will continue to keep the community informed as we work to restore the area. For support, please call us on 1300 656 007.

The incident highlights the importance of keeping the sewerage system healthy. People should only flush the 3Ps – Pee, Poo and (toilet) Paper – as toilets and drains are not designed to handle other material.

Barwon Water’s “Don’t Flush It!” campaign encourages customers to put items like tissues, paper towels, cotton buds and non-flushable wipes in the bin, as they don’t break down in the sewerage system.

For more information, visit www.barwonwater.vic.gov.au/water-and-waste/sewage/dont-flush-it

Community members can also get an interactive and educational experience of the importance of keeping sewers healthy at its free Museum of Modern (f)Art – which is open every Thursday from 9:30 am to 10:30 am during Term 1 and Term 2, 2025.

For more details, visit www.barwonwater.vic.gov.au/community-and-education/museum-of-modern-fart