The Yarra reached a seasonal peak of 2.150 metres on the 5th September 2010.
For the last few days water has completely covered the lower steps and ramp part of the FCC dock. 

As a comparison, over summer water levels are usually between 0.2m to 0.3m

All paddlers are encouraged to pay particular attention to safety on the water as the increased level has created strong currents,  whirlpools, eddies and has moved many submerged and semi-submerged logs and branches.
Increased floating debris creates an additional hazard.

For those ready for the challenge, these conditions provide an excellent opportunity to build up experience in faster water. 

Melbourne Water have a monitoring station on the Yarra near Chandler Highway.
This is one of 160 devices used by Melbourne Water to measure flow levels and water heights on the hour.

Unfortunately increased water flow usually has a negative impact on water quality due the disturbance of sediments and increased run off.

Water Quality is monitored by EPA on a weekly basis by measuring E.coli levels in the Yarra River at Chandler Highway (identified as 'Kew' on the EPA website).  Water is considered to be high quality when five weekly samples are less than or equal to 200 E.coli per 100mL

Further Information:

Melbourne Water
EPA
Water safety for flatwater paddlers - Guidelines

NOTICE TO RIVER USERS