The natural processes associated with unconfined meandering river systems have been shown to lead to the degradation of channel beds, erosion on channel banks and bend migration. In such systems the meanders naturally propagate episodically downstream. This process has been amplified through European settlement where many Australian waterways have been subjected to intense agricultural pressures and subsequent vegetation clearance. This process of degradation of riparian zones along much of our waterways has contributed to the destabilisation of waterway embankments, leading to erosion, sediment liberation and an overall decline in waterway health.