URGENT UPDATE: The Dandenong community is reeling after a tragic incident where Fariba Hussainzada, aged 33, and her seven-year-old son Farzad drowned in the perilous waters of Dandenong Creek. This devastating event has sparked immediate calls for enhanced safety measures in local parks, particularly near creekside playgrounds, following a history of similar tragedies.
The heartbreaking incident unfolded when Ms. Hussainzada took her children to a park in Doveton. As heavy rains caused the creek to overflow, her son ran towards the water. In a desperate attempt to save him, she was swept away. Family member Saleha Hussainzada revealed to the Star Journal that discussions with local authorities regarding safety improvements are forthcoming, but the family needs time to grieve their unimaginable loss.
This tragedy is not an isolated incident. Former Greater Dandenong councillor Peter Brown described feeling a sense of “deja vu” upon learning of the drownings. In 2015, after the drowning of a three-year-old boy, Ishnael Bagaie, in the same creek, Brown advocated for fencing around parkland near Keneally Street and Dalgety Street. Despite the installation of some safety measures—a 25-meter tall fence at the Dandenong Park playground—numerous areas remain unprotected.
Authorities report that at least five people have drowned in Dandenong Creek over the past 18 years. The council’s previous efforts to enhance safety have proven insufficient, particularly as sections of fencing have fallen into disrepair. A specific area of concern is the lack of barriers around picnic areas and playgrounds, notably at Keneally Reserve and Dalgety Reserve.
The Greater Dandenong Council and Melbourne Water have extended their heartfelt condolences to the Hussainzada family. However, there has been no indication of plans to implement new safety measures in response to this latest tragedy. Melbourne Water confirmed that there are currently no plans to modify the creek’s concrete channel or banks, raising concerns among community members advocating for immediate action.
As discussions around safety measures gain momentum, the community is urged to reflect on the ongoing risks associated with Dandenong Creek. Local leaders and residents are calling for urgent reviews of safety protocols, emphasizing the need for fencing and other protective measures to prevent further tragedies.
The future of creekside safety in Dandenong hangs in the balance as families await a response from local authorities. What happens next could define the safety of children and families in the area. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and advocate for change to ensure that such devastating incidents do not happen again.
