MV Ajax III moored at old Footscray Docks

Taken during a night photography ramble in and around the area of the old Footscray Docks which are located approximately 6 kms from the Melbourne CBD.

In the latter part of the 19th Century until near the middle of the 20th Century, the Maribrynong River hosted a number of major Wharfs, especially at Footscray and nearby Yarraville. These Wharfs (Docks) served a number of light and heavy Industries that were located on and near the banks of the River. In their heyday, these Industries employed thousands, though little, if any of the legacy of these Industries remain. For many decades the area slowly declined and the Wharfs fell into neglect and ruin, despite a few sporadic attempts ot renewal. Sadly, not much of the old Wharf structures remain. However, in recent times, following the enactment of EPA legislation, interest by Government and local Citizens, a revival of industrial interest coupled with pockets of medium densisty housing estates, is enabling the area to undergo a belated revival.

The Maribrynong River itself is considered the second major waterway of Melbourne (capital of the State of Victoria, Australia) after the more famous Yarra River and nowdays, you can see Fisherpersons dropping in a few lines. It was not that long ago the water quality was quite foul and often stank. A work in progress you could say in water quality regard.

As a western suburbs of Melbourne lad, I've known the area along the River since childhood, though I'd offer, most Melbournians and Visitors would not ordinarily be aware of the place, let alone visit.

To take this photo, I walked across the nearby Shepherd Bridge (one of major Bridges over the River) and from the 'City-side' composed the shot.