BGM_The Industrial past of the Birrarung

The Birrarung-better known as the Yarra-was once a pristine, life-giving force for the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. But with colonisation as well as Melbourne’s rapid industrial growth, it became something else entirely, a river of industry, pollution, and destruction. In this episode of Down the Yarra, we uncover how factories, tanneries, and abattoirs turned the Birrarung into an industrial sewer, why it’s waters ran brown and toxic for over a century, and how efforts to clean as well as restore it continue today. Plus, a teaser for our next episode, where we explore the deeper history of the Birrarung-its ancient formation, cultural significance, and future. Trigger warning: This episode discusses environmental destruction and the displacement of First Nations people.