YAN YEAN RESERVOIR

Yan Yean Reservoir is the oldest water supply for the city of Melbourne. It is built on the Plenty River a tributary of the Yarra River, 30 km north of the city. A 9.5 metre embankment holds back 30,000 megalitres (30 million cubic metres) of water. Work began in 1853 at the height of the gold rush, and it took four years to construct at a cost of £750,000.

The reservoir is managed by Melbourne Water as part of the water supply system for Melbourne. At the time of its completion in 1857 it was the largest artificial reservoir in the world. It was designed by James Blackburn, an English Civil Engineer and former London sanitary inspector who was transported to Tasmania as a convict following charges of embezzlement. After being pardoned he came to Melbourne in 1849.

The Toorourrong Reservoir system, constructed in 1883–1885, supplies water to Yan Yean via an aqueduct. Around the reservoir there are parklands, an extensive nature reserve and picnic grounds. It is a popular and beautiful spot for family outings, another advantage being its proximity to the city. Native flora and fauna (like the Eucalypts and Eastern Rosella pictured below) can be found in the reserve.

This post is part of the Waterworld Wednesday meme,
and also part of the Outdoor Wednesday meme,
and also part of the Wordless Wednesday meme,
and also part of the ABC Wednesday meme.