parks and reserves closed - asbestos in recycled material - hobsons bay area

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After the recent discovery of asbestos in recycled mulch at Donald McLean Reserve in Spotswood, the Hobsons Bay Council team has been inspecting reserves right across the Hobsons Bay area and has closed a number of reserves and areas within the reserves until further notice

Asbestos has been detected at the following sites:

  • WJ Crofts Reserve, Blackshaws Rd, Altona North 

  • G J Hosken Reserve, Blackshaws Rd, Altona North 

  • PJ Lynch Reserve, Mason Street, Altona North 

  • Donald McLean Reserve, The Avenue, Spotswood  

  • PA Burns Reserve, Altona

  • Altona Coastal Park, Altona

  • Federation Trail, Brooklyn – managed by Department of Transport and Planning (identified as demolition waste and not in mulch)

  • Laverton Creek (rear of AB Shaw Reserve), Altona Meadows

  • Doug Grant Reserve, Altona 

  • Newport Lakes Reserve, Newport 

  • Truganina Park, Altona Meadows

  • Cherry Lake Buffer Mound, Altona 

  • Grieve Parade Reserve, Altona 

  • Kororoit Creek Reserve, Altona NorthAll affected areas have been fenced off and signage is in place but these spots are closed until further notice.

Some of these places are very popular for families and during school holidays it is important to us here at Mamma Knows West we keep you informed of these closures and any issues that may affect you all.

Keep in mind that at this stage we are being informed that it is low risk as the two pieces of asbestos-containing material found at Donald McLean Reserve were bonded asbestos.  

The EPA has advised the council that bonded asbestos is generally made up of a small amount of asbestos fibres that are tightly bound in a product such as resin or cement. It is considered low risk for people who are in contact with it, unless it is damaged or badly weathered, resulting in asbestos fibres being released into the air. 

Further to this there are two types of mulch used in these reserves – one is recycled product whish is used around mature tree planting and a different virgin soft mulch is used around the playground. The materials were found in the recycled product - the one used around the trees.

How long will the playgrounds and reserves be closed for? 

At this stage, it is not known how long this playground will remain closed for. Further updates will be provided once site clearance is received and new materials are arranged.

Please keep informed on the council website - COUNCIL WEBSITE INFORMATION