The Warmies Dog Off Leash Area (Newport)

An interesting area with a good sized grassy oval area to run around in plus a walk along a spit of land which reaches out into the Yarra River where it reaches the bay. There is a good chance of seeing huge ships moving past on the river and spotting some fishermen trying to catch something.

There are a few trees scattered about the off leash area. There is a toilet and bin in the car parking area for the boat ramp plus bins in other locations. This boat ramp area is paid parking and it is best to park in the area to the east of Newport Park which has free parking. The area has some points of interest including the "Whirlpool" sculpture and a tribute to the HMAS Yarra (1936 - 1942) where there is a water tap in the vicinity. This area sits beside the Williamstown Foreshore Trail.

The origins of the "Whirlpool" sculpture is that warm water from the Newport power station flowing into the cold sea water creates a 'Whirlpool', a cauldron of natural and super natural life forms. Within the form of the sculpture there are many references to the past and present environment of 'The Warmies'. The explanation by the artist is "The skeletal nature of the design is symbolic and reminiscent of organic structures such as feathers and wings and past vegetation such as the mangroves.

The arch and the linear aspect of the design relate to the lines of the horizon and the distant architectural structures and the urban landscape.

The intention is to create a dialogue between the architectural, urban structures and the surrounding organic landscape.

By using curvilinear forms, I wanted to create something that would make an impact within the vastness of the landscape of The Warmies whilst at the same time being the least invasive.

The visual weight of the piece will constantly change according to the angle of vision and the reflection of light."

"If the stack's blowing... I know where I'm going!" The 'Warmies' or the 'Hotties' are nicknames for the channel of water that runs from the Newport Power Station to the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay, which is one of Melbourne's best fishing spots.
The power station pumps Yarra water to cool its turbines, then pours the water, now heated, back into the river. The water jumps from about nine to 22 degrees, attracting fish that enjoy the warm water habitat. The Warmies boat ramp and car park areas opened in 1999, providing people with improved access and opportunity to enjoy boating and fishing on the Yarra and Maribyrnong Rivers and Port Phillip Bay.

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Location

120 The Strand, Newport 3015 Map