Our beloved Yarra River isn't the first place most Melbourne residents consider for a swim - but don't totally count it out this summer!
If you're ready to take the plunge, there are a few things you need to know.
First of all, it is illegal to swim downstream of Gipps Street in Abbotsford. That means under no circumstances can you jump into the Yarra in Richmond, Hawthorn, or anywhere in the CBD.
Secondly, before even contemplating swimming in the Yarra you should make sure to check the current water quality forecast. This will advise you whether the water is suitable for swimming or not. If there has been rain in the last two days, you shouldn’t swim in the Yarra.
So where can you swim? Technically, anywhere upstream from Gipps Street. But the water quality generally isn’t great, and as swimming isn’t common in these areas you’re likely to be looked at with a bit of confusion by any local dog walkers.
There are four sites where Yarra water is monitored:
Kew
Warrandyte
Healesville
Launching Place
By keeping an eye on the water quality of these sites, you can work out where else is safe to swim.
Kew
Under the Chandler Hwy Bridge
This is the closest spot to the CBD with regular water testing where it is okay to swim, and if you get a good water forecast you could have a dip here. Historically, there used to be a Yarra swimming pool just up the river at Alphington Park.
As someone who grew up very close to this spot I can’t say I ever recall seeing anyone swimming here, so you’ll probably have it all to yourself apart from the Fairfield Boathouse rowers. There are several places along this stretch of the river where it is easy to get from the bank into the water, so if you're feeling brave you might want to try it.