News

End of Year River Red Gum Update

16 December 2025

As 2025 draws to a close, we’d like to share an update on the River Red Gum Stage 2 (Phase 1) project at Northern Memorial Park and outline the steps we’re taking in response to community feedback.

We appreciate everyone who attended the community pop-up event in late October and those who have shared feedback with us throughout the year. Your insights help us shape a project that balances community needs and long-term sustainability.

What we heard and what we're doing

What we heardWhat we're doing
Dust concernsWe understand that dust from the site has been affecting nearby homes, and we continue to take steps to address this.

Actions underway:

  • Installed mesh screening on temporary fencing to limit dust movement and improve visual amenity.
  • Applying dust suppressant to large inactive areas.
  • Seeding soil mounds with grass to minimise dust over the holiday period.
  • Planning for removal of the large soil mound, which requires careful coordination.

In the new year, once planning is finalised, we aim to begin removing the large soil mound — a major step that will significantly reduce dust for residents in the long term. We’ll keep you informed every step of the way and appreciate your patience as we work to improve conditions.

Traffic on May StreetConcerns were raised about traffic speed and congestion near the May Street entrance.

Actions underway:

  • May Street is managed by Merri-bek City Council. We have formally requested additional speed humps and a ‘keep clear’ zone at the Andrew and May Street intersections.
  • We encourage residents to also submit requests to Council to help strengthen the case for these changes.
Residential boundary fence designFeedback on the updated boundary fence design has been mixed. Some residents prefer extending the cyclone fence, while others welcome an approach that emphasises beautification and consistency with existing Northern Memorial Park internal fences.
Actions underway:
  • GMCT will proceed with the current design, which includes landscaping and a wider buffer between the fence and shared pathway.
  • This approach aims to improve amenity while maintaining security, supported by additional measures outlined below.

Fence design:

Security concernsCommunity members expressed concerns about safety and security along the residential boundary.

Actions underway:

  • At least two security cameras will be installed along the residential boundary when Phase 1 opens.
  • We welcome feedback on preferred camera locations. We propose the locations pictured below.
  • Fencing around Northern Memorial Park, particularly near the Metropolitan Ring Road, has been repaired

Proposed camera locations:

Other queriesWe also received a few general queries about Northern Memorial Park.
  • Some residents want to understand why the River Red Gum fountain is not operating. The fountain is currently damaged and cost a significant sum to repair. GMCT is reviewing the budget and we aim to rectify issue this in the future.
  • We have lodged a request to correct the opening times listed on the May Street Entrance sign.

Current works

Contractors will complete the widening of River Red Gum Circuit (internal road) and reopen the May Street Entrance by 19 December, subject to weather conditions. Works will pause from this date.

In early January, the contractors will recommence Phase 1 works, which is still expected to open to the public by late 2026. Dust mitigation measures will remain in place during the break, and site security systems will stay active.

Looking ahead

We’ll continue to keep the community informed as the project progresses. Your feedback remains important, and you’re welcome to email us at community@gmct.com.au at any time.

Thank you for your patience and support as we work to deliver a project that benefits the community and honours the natural environment.