Hawthorn East Retarding Basin: protecting homes and supporting local sport
Spectators at Rathmines Road Reserve Oval will have a new place to cheer on their local teams, thanks to the upgraded Hawthorn East Retarding Basin (HERB). This upgrade not only protects homes from flooding but also creates a lasting legacy for the community. A spectator shelter, integrated into the spillway wall overlooking the oval, transforms essential flood infrastructure into a space for the entire neighbourhood to enjoy.
The area is prone to flooding, and the retarding basin has been crucial in reducing flood risk to homes for over a century by temporarily storing stormwater during heavy rainfall. However, recent investigations indicated that the existing structure, built in the 1920s, needed significant upgrades to meet Australian National Committee on Large Dams (ANCOLD) guidelines.
The upgrade more than doubled the basin’s storage capacity. It involved completely demolishing the old spillway, deepening and widening the basin and rebuilding the embankments. Sensors were also installed for real-time remote monitoring of water levels, allowing for more effective stormwater management.
The redesigned basin diverts water away from properties that have previously been affected by flooding, directing it west into Rathmines Reserve.
“The upgraded basin can now capture significantly more water,” said Sean Hanrahan, Melbourne Water Executive General Manager of Service Asset & Lifecycle. “This reduces the likelihood of flooding events and provides residents greater peace of mind, knowing their community is more resilient to storm events.”
Incorporating community feedback, Melbourne Water created the new spectator shelter, providing a space for friends, family and fans to support local sport at Rathmines Road Reserve Oval.
“Retarding basins are essential components of flood mitigation infrastructure, but when possible, we also want them to enhance the liveability of our neighbourhoods,” said Hanrahan.
“Local sporting clubs have warmly welcomed the new shelter as a place that will encourage greater spectator presence on game day and enhance the role of the reserve as a gathering space for the neighbourhood.”
This dual-purpose approach is a testament to thoughtful design and collaboration between Melbourne Water and the local community.
“The new retarding basin will significantly increase water storage capacity, reducing flooding events and keeping our community safe today, tomorrow and for generations to come,” said Hanrahan.
Melbourne Water manages over 200 retarding basins, critical assets designed to mitigate flooding by capturing heavy rainfall in low-lying land. Once stormwater is collected, it follows the natural drainage system, flowing into rivers, creeks and eventually Port Phillip Bay. In Hawthorn East, this essential flood protection now comes with the added benefit of a space that brings people together.
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