Frankston City Council has reaffirmed its leadership and advocacy role in protecting Kananook Creek as future priorities for the waterway are set to be progressed through Melbourne Water’s upcoming Healthy Waterways Strategy review, which will involve councils, State agencies, Traditional Owners and community stakeholders.
At its February Council Meeting, the Council received a comprehensive report outlining governance arrangements, future priorities and advocacy pathways for the Kananook Creek corridor, helping clarify how agencies work together to manage one of Frankston City’s most valued natural assets.
Mayor, Sue Baker said Kananook Creek remains a priority for Council and the broader community.
“Kananook Creek is one of Frankston City’s most loved natural places. Our community cares deeply about its future, and Council shares that commitment,” she said.
“Council has not stepped back from leadership of Kananook Creek. We continue to lead, advocate and coordinate partners and ensure Frankston’s voice is strongly represented in decisions that affect the creek.”
The report outlined the management arrangements of Kananook Creek, which are shared across multiple authorities under State legislation:
- Melbourne Water — flooding, water flows and some drainage infrastructure
- Parks Victoria — port management for the navigable section of the creek
- Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action— Crown land ownership
- Frankston City Council — Council-owned land, management of Crown land, drainage infrastructure, local assets and community facilities adjacent to the creek.
Mayor Baker said a clear understanding of responsibilities and partnerships with key stakeholders is essential to achieving real outcomes.
“No single organisation can deliver long-term improvements alone. Progress depends on agencies working together with clear roles, coordinated investment and strong community advocacy.”
Council has successfully advocated for investigation of creek desilting to be recognised as a placemaking priority within the Dandenong Catchment Integrated Water Management Action Plan, and has submitted a funding application with the Victorian Government to undertake feasibility work for de-silting of the creek between the boat ramp and Beach Street.
Council currently spends $180,000 each year on maintenance dredging of the mouth of the creek, with additional funding of $110,000 from Better Boating Victoria.
“Leadership means bringing the right organisations together to deliver solutions, not working in isolation,” Mayor Baker said.
“Our focus is securing coordinated investment and working together to protect and enhance Kananook Creek, delivering long-term environmental outcomes that benefit the whole community and future generations.”
Council acknowledged the ongoing contribution of volunteer and environmental groups advocating for the creek’s future.
“Community passion for Kananook Creek is incredibly important. By working together across agencies and with the community, we can protect and enhance this special place for generations to come,” the Mayor said.
