A report into the death of a man who drowned in the Yarra River says more signage is needed to warn of the dangers of swimming under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Frank Mellia was reported missing, feared drown, two days before his body was found on January 16, 2023 in the Yarra River at Warrandyte.
The 39-year-old Derrimut man met friends at Taroona Reserve January 14 with plans to swim in the river.
Mr Mellia, who was known to have a drinking problem, met his friends in the car park and handed his suitcase for them to put in their car as he planned to stay with them overnight.
When they returned to the riverbank, Mr Mellia was nowhere to be seen.
Coroner Paul Lawrie found the cause of Mr Mellia's death was a result of misadventure and that he had a very high blood alcohol concentration when he entered the water.
"This would have grossly impaired his judgment and his ability to properly co-ordinate his efforts to swim, or to get to safety once he found himself in faster flowing water," Mr Laurie found.
The Warrandyte reach of the Yarra River is a popular swimming spot and dominated by rock reefs, shallow and deep pools of water and large woody debris.
There are warning signs of strong currents, submerged objects and sudden drops at other areas along the river, but not at Taroona Reserve, where it's believed Mr Mellia entered the water.
Mr Lawrie recommended Parks Victoria review signage particularly at Warrandyte River Reserve and Taroona Reserve warning of the river hazards, as well as the danger of using alcohol or drugs while using the river.
