By Renee Wood and Callum Ludwig
Victoria Police, Yarra Ranges Council and the Warburton Advancement League have come together to install 14 river safety signs along the banks of the Yarra River in the Warburton and East Warburton area.
Two signs will also be installed in Yarra Junction, all to alert visitors of the changing river conditions and to always watch and supervise children around water.
The project first began when Warburton Police Officer in Charge Sergeant Jason Kelly considered what risks had evolved around swimming due to the pandemic.
Yarra Ranges Senior Sergeant Stewart Thompson said a lack of swimming lessons due to lockdowns sparked concerns for local police.
“The premise we have used is an 18-month-old that was locked down two years ago is now a four-year old, so the 18-month-old hasn’t been able to do those vital swimming lessons in that first phase of life,” Snr Sgt Thompson said.
“Then all of a sudden, a four year old down by the river with mates is often running and jumping in and fearless.”
An increase in tourism was also a main driver with large crowds of up to 4,000 people attending Warburton Water World and the rivers.
Police reached out to council and the Warburton Advancement League to create the joint river safety campaign.
“The key messaging was development of water wise habits and know your swimming abilities but also to reinforce to parents or guardians, that they must actively watch their children in and around the waterways.”
Yarra Ranges Mayor Jim Child said council agreed signage was vital at such a popular destination.
“Mum and Dad you’re bringing your kids to a great facility like this but for goodness sake be mindful of their safety and look after your family and you’ll enjoy this precinct so much more,” Mayor Child said.
The community involvement through the Warburton Advancement League was also appreciated by Mayor Child.
“To have a local community body and the agencies get involved with this is just outstanding.
“We hope this really rings home to families to look after the kids and look after their children’s safety.”
Snr Sgt Thompson recommended river-goers to check the river for underwater hazards, with dark waters meaning it’s important to be aware of tree branches and moving rocks before swimming.
Knowing your child’s and your own ability is vital to also swimming in the river.
“Ask yourself the question – can you swim? Can your child swim? You need to know your own ability and your ability to help out and rescue family members or friends,” Snr Sgt Thompson said.
The river conditions are also expected to change as the the reservoirs are released.
“We’re going to have a release of water from the O’Shannassy and Upper Yarra reservoirs beginning on the 21 January, so we’ll be seeing the river actually increasing in level so we want people to be aware of that as well,” Mayor Child said.
