22 September 2011
First Heritage Stone Laid in Toorourrong Rebuild
A significant milestone was recently achieved at Toorourrong Reservoir as the first heritage stone was relaid in the historic Clearwater Outlet.
The work is part of Melbourne Water’s restoration of the structure and marks the progress of the $11 million upgrade of the entire asset.
Precious bluestone and granite blocks were removed from the 125-year-old dam’s historic Clearwater Channel Outlet earlier in the year. The stones were stored onsite until the original façade was recreated.
Specialist stone masons, heritage architects and archaeologists have all been involved in the delicate reconstruction.
Heritage Services Co-ordinator, Paul Balassone said each block of stone was individually checked and recorded to ensure the recreation was entirely accurate.
“The stonework that has begun at Toorourrong is a rebuild of the original fabric of the Yan Yean water supply system, Melbourne’s first dam, and therefore must be faithful to the original,” said Mr Balassone.
“It is a painstakingly slow process that commands the best in craftsmanship.”
As a safety measure, the new outlet is being reassembled a few metres downstream of its original location.
“The upgrade is vital because the original dam is now 125 years old and doesn’t meet the modern safety standards,” said Mr Balassone.
“We’ve worked closely with Heritage Victoria and Parks Victoria to make sure the reservoir will not only be safe and functional, but retain its historic significance and recreational purpose for visitors.”
Melbourne Water was granted a works permit by Heritage Victoria to carry out the work at Toorourrong in December 2010.
As well as relocating the Clearwater Channel Gates, Melbourne Water is replacing the spillway, raising the dam wall by 2.5 metres, and installing a filter layer in the dam embankment.
Work is due to be finished by the end of the year. More information about the project is available in our Current Projects section.
Media Contact: Nicolas McGay (03) 9235 2278; 0438 981 836