Mount Waverley Service Reservoir WR16

Have you ever thought about where your water comes from? You might be surprised to know that right before your eyes lies a crucial link in Melbourne’s water supply chain, the Mount Waverley Service Reservoir WR16. Built in 1928, this reservoir played a critical role in bringing water from nearby sources to Melbourne’s eastern and southeastern suburbs. It is incredibly important for transferring water between Silvan Reservoir, Mitcham Reservoir, and Mount View Reservoir. This magnificent reservoir, now somewhat hidden from view, was vital for the city’s growth and remains a vital part of today’s network. Back then, the water was not treated and the water quality wasn’t as high as it is today. It was just a straight pipe from the source to where it was needed. In the decades since, the reservoir has had its share of repairs and relining but is reaching the end of its service life. This is why Melbourne Water undertook a major water main upgrade project to ensure the security of Melbourne’s water supply, now and in the future. It’s a massive undertaking involving the replacement of aging water mains between the corner of High Street Road and Blackburn Road, as well as the Mount Waverley Reserve. There will be some localized impacts of the project, including night works, noise, dust, and temporary changes to street parking. The impacts highlight the fact the old water mains were running through established neighborhoods, needing to be replaced with minimal disruption to the residents. In the final stages of the project, the focus is on reinstatement activities on High Street Road, Fleet Street, and St Albans Street. This includes resurfacing roads and restoring the area. Melbourne Water is working hard to complete the project as quickly and safely as possible, while minimizing disruption to the community. It’s a huge project, but a necessary one. While the Mount Waverley Service Reservoir WR16 is a vital part of Melbourne’s water supply system, it’s not the only one. Many other reservoirs and water main upgrades are taking place to ensure the city’s water supply remains safe and reliable for generations to come. The story of this reservoir is a story of resilience, adaptability, and commitment to providing essential services to the city and its people.