A newly released landslide risk map from the Yarra Ranges Shire Council has identified more than 13,400 properties that may be exposed to a landslide and falling debris hazard. Areas including Belgrave, Monbulk, Mount Dandenong, Olinda, Kalorama, and Warburton have been identified as some of the most vulnerable locations.
This initiative follows the devastating June 2021 storm event, which damaged and/or destroyed approximately 120 homes throughout the Dandenong Ranges, and resulted in the loss of an estimated 25,000 trees.
While the immediate impacts of the storm were obvious, the long-term consequences are still being felt today. Trees play a critical role in stabilising slopes and maintaining soil strength. Their removal, combined with increasingly intense rainfall events and changing weather patterns, has significantly increased the risk of landslides and slope instability throughout the Yarra Ranges.
For property owners planning to build, renovate, extend, or subdivide, understanding these risks is now more important than ever.
Local Geotechnical Investigation Specialists in the Yarra Ranges
Based in Ferntree Gully, Smolders Geotechnical has local and extensive experience undertaking soil testing, and landslip risk assessments throughout the Yarra and Dandenong Ranges.
Since the 2021 storms, our team has completed numerous investigations for homeowners, developers, architects, councils, and government agencies, helping them understand and manage landslip hazards while satisfying council planning requirements.
Being local ourselves, we understand why so many people choose to live in this beautiful part of Victoria, but we also recognise the unique geotechnical challenges associated with its steep terrain, reactive soils, and groundwater conditions.
It’s important to note that the introduction of the updated Erosion Management Overlay (EMO) does not prevent you from building; Instead, it ensures that developers take a responsible and informed approach in areas where slope instability may present a risk.
What is an Erosion Management Overlay (EMO)?
An Erosion Management Overlay is a planning control that is applied to land that may be susceptible to erosion, landslides, slope instability, or falling debris.
Where an EMO applies, council may require a geotechnical report, landslip risk assessment, or detailed site investigation before granting planning approval.
The purpose of these investigations is to ensure the proposed development does not increase the risk to people, property, infrastructure, or neighbouring land.
What is Involved in a Landslip Risk Assessment?
Our landslip risk assessments are completed in accordance with the Australian Geomechanics Society (AGS) 2007 Practice Notes and relevant council planning requirements.
1. Desktop Review
We begin by reviewing:
- Geological mapping
- Site topography and slope gradients
- Historical landslide records
- Council-provided hazard mapping
- Existing geotechnical data and previous investigations
This desktop assessment provides valuable context before attending the site.
2. Geotechnical Site Assessment
Our qualified Landslip Specialist will attend the site to complete the field-based proportion of the investigation, including a thorough assessment of the site itself and surrounding areas.
The assessment typically includes:
- Evaluation of slope conditions
- Identification of existing landslide features
- Assessment of groundwater and drainage conditions
- Inspection of retaining walls and infrastructure
- Review of surrounding land and neighbouring slopes
3. Landslip Risk Assessment
Where identified hazards exceed the ACCEPTABLE or TOLERABLE risk criteria prescribed by the applicable EMO schedule, we develop practical and cost-effective mitigation measures.
These may include:
- Improved site drainage
- Retaining structures
- Slope stabilisation works
- Building setbacks
- Vegetation management strategies
- Engineering design recommendations
Our extensive experience allows us to develop realistic solutions that balance safety, compliance, and project feasibility.
4. Comprehensive Geotechnical Reporting
Following the investigation, we prepare a detailed report outlining:
- Site conditions
- Landslip hazards
- Risk assessment findings
- Engineering recommendations
- Required mitigation measures
Where applicable, the report is accompanied by a signed Form A – Geotechnical Declaration and Verification, as required by council.
5. Independent Peer Review
In some cases, a peer review may be required – meaning your report will need to be reviewed and assessed by another landslip or slope stability specialist. In some instances, further investigation, reporting or both may be recommended and in turn required.
Why Soil Testing and Geotechnical Investigations Matter
Whether you’re building a new home, undertaking an extension, constructing retaining walls, or subdividing land, a professional geotechnical investigation provides critical information about the ground conditions on your site.
Our soil testing and geotechnical investigation services help identify:
- Soil reactivity
- Foundation conditions
- Slope stability risks
- Groundwater issues
- Excavation requirements
- Landslide susceptibility
- Suitable construction recommendations
Early identification of these factors can help avoid costly delays, redesigns, and construction issues later in the project.
Need Soil Testing or a Geotechnical Investigation in the Yarra Ranges?
Smolders Geotechnical provides professional soil testing Melbourne, geotechnical investigations, landslip risk assessments and geotechnical reports throughout:
- Yarra Ranges
- Dandenong Ranges
- Belgrave
- Monbulk
- Mount Dandenong
- Olinda
- Kalorama
- Sassafras
- Upwey
- Tecoma
- Ferntree Gully
- Melbourne Eastern Suburbs
- Regional Victoria
All investigations and reports are completed in-house by qualified Engineering Geologists and Geotechnical Engineers, ensuring accurate, practical and council-compliant outcomes.
If your property is affected by an Erosion Management Overlay, contact Smolders Geotechnical to discuss your project and obtain expert local advice.
