The first stage of the Greenline Project at Birrarung Marr officially opened to the public today, revealing a highly anticipated $39 million revamp of the Yarra River's northern bank.
The entire Greenline Project will deliver a four-kilometre connected riverfront promenade transforming the Yarra River into a connected entertainment precinct, stunning parklands, and a beautiful active transport route.
Stage one, made possible with a $20 million investment from the Albanese Government and almost $20 million from City of Melbourne delivered 450 metres of boardwalks and native Australian green spaces in three distinct zones:
- the River Edge, a statement entrance to the Greenline Project
- the Lookout, a key place for cultural celebrations, overlooking the river
- the Fig Tree Boardwalk, which provides a peaceful space for art, storytelling, and nature, with a suspended tree-lined platform and seating.
In addition to constructing Site One of the Birrarung Marr Precinct, the combined funding delivered the Greenline Project Masterplan and 5 distinct Precinct Plans, capturing the unique vision and values of each location.
The transformation was funded through the Priority Community Infrastructure Program, which is delivering social and recreational infrastructure that enhances the quality of life for local communities.
City of Melbourne has also received $4.4 million from the Albanese Government's urban Precincts and Partnerships Program to plan the Birrarung Riverfront Activation Precinct proposal which is the next exciting stage of the Greenline Project.
Once all stages are completed, the Greenline Project will be a statement promenade along one of Australia's most famous rivers.
It will make inner Melbourne an even more vibrant, connected and accessible experience for both locals and visitors.
The Greenline Project is supporting up to 108 direct jobs during construction across all stages.
Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
"If trees are the green lungs of our cities, rivers are the arteries and giving people in our cities easy access to their waterways is essential.
"Istanbul has the Uskudar Coast Walkway, New York has the Hudson River Waterfront and now Melbourne has the Greenline.
"This now completed walkway will be beloved by locals, a favourite for runners, and will leave visitors to Victoria's gateway city in awe."
Quotes attributable to City of Melbourne Lord Mayor Nick Reece:
"Birrarung Marr has been transformed - creating a stunning new riverside destination for locals and visitors in the heart of our city."
"I want to thank the Australian Government and Minister King for their unwavering support in delivering this incredible project - and I look forward to continuing our partnership to bring the entire Greenline Project to life."
Quotes attributable to Member for Melbourne Sarah Witty:
"It's incredibly exciting that this new walkway is now complete, and open for everyone to enjoy.
"From a morning walk with a coffee, to a picnic with the kids, to New Years Eve celebrations, Labor's investment in the Greenline Project will redefine how Melbournians and tourists alike see the Yarra.
"These immaculate upgrades will draw more business to local shops, cafes and restaurants as people flock to make the new promenade part of their daily life in Melbourne."
Attributable to Deputy Lord Mayor Roshena Campbell:
"Greenline is an investment in Melbourne's future, creating riverfront open space for residents and visitors.
"Birrarung Marr will enhance the Yarra River experience for everyone with the Greenline Project forecast to attract more than 1.1 million additional visitors every year."
