Hills Reserve and Savages Crossing are two locations along the Brisbane River, between Lake Wivenhoe and Mt Crosby Water Treatment Plant, that are popular for recreational activities including 4WDing, fishing and launching canoes.  However, degradation of these sites is impacting downstream water quality.  Seqwater and Somerset Regional Council, who have a shared interest in improving the health of the Brisbane River and also managing these major recreation sites along the River, sought input on options for improvement and management of both of these sites.

A technical assessment was undertaken to identify the historical and current contributing factors that are degrading the sites and impacting on raw water quality.  The investigations also included extensive stakeholder engagement to ensure that these locations can continue to provide a space for the community to engage with nature without compromising the water supply.

The detailed technical assessments included:

• Geomorphic investigation
• Riparian vegetation assessment
• Site engineering survey
• Sediment analysis
• Hydraulic modelling

A detailed Technical Report, Options Assessment Report and Recreation Management Plan was developed for each site with the aim of improving the condition of the river and achieving positive water quality outcomes.  The potential solutions identified included addressing erosion through revegetation and weed management, design of a rock chute to address localised erosion and strategic recreational access to the river through designated access points, vehicle exclusion, signage, and education.