Jim Courier jumping in the Yarra after winning the Australian Open in 1993.Credit:Stuart Hannagan
The Greens want to change that and have pitched voters an election plan to make the Yarra River “swimmable” in the CBD and in inner suburbs including Richmond,Clifton Hill and Abbotsford.
The $34.3 million proposal would require significant restoration of the Yarra’s riverbanks,the Greens say,and changes to planning laws to reduce runoff from buildings,roads and footpaths.
It could also mean investing in the construction of river pools,such as one proposed forthe Yarra’s north bank near Enterprize Park two years ago.
Greens MP for Melbourne Ellen Sandell said swimming in the lower Yarra was a lost Melbourne pastime that should be revived.
“Only 50 years ago,people could swim in the Yarra within the reaches of the CBD,” Ms Sandell said.
It's a bit murky but the upper reaches of the Yarra are swimmable.Credit:Justin McManus
“There’s no reason we can’t make that a possibility again. It’s ambitious but it’s possible.”