Not a Convenient Drain - The Cooks River

Not a Convenient Drain - The Cooks River

From Urban Ambling by Mercator

September 19, 2025 · 31 min · Episode 16

About this episode

This episode explores the history and transformation of the Cooks River from a polluted waterway to a revitalized natural space.

Abused, Ignored and avoided were apt descriptions of the Cooks River over the years from 1788 to the mid 1970’s. It started as a Arcadian Wonderland, but industrial, chemical and plastic pollution, together with urbanisation, almost destroyed it. But the river won through and now has a delightful pathway following it for most of its course. A delightful spot to amble!

Topics covered

  • environment
  • urbanization
  • pollution
  • history
  • nature
  • recreation

Keywords

  • Cooks River
  • pollution
  • urbanization
  • history
  • nature
  • recreation
  • pathway
  • environment

Mentioned in this episode

Places: Cooks River

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