FutureWe’re upgrading parts of the Maroondah Reservoir Transfer System to keep our water supply strong and reliable for the future.
Located near Healesville, the transfer system provides about 200 million litres of clean drinking water to Melbourne every day. Some parts of it were built in the 1890s and 1920s and are now becoming too old to continue being used. Replacing it with modern infrastructure means we can continue supplying safe water to homes and businesses for generations to come.
What we’re doing
The project involves constructing a 4km underground pipeline and new outlet tower at the reservoir. The aqueduct (comprising open sections of aqueduct, tunnels and pipes) will be decommissioned. The existing outlet tower will no longer function as a water supply asset. It will be remediated to preserve the heritage listed structure and a new outlet tower will be built.
Together, these upgrades will:
- increase the reliability and amount of water we can safely transfer,
- improve water quality,
- extend the life of the Maroondah Reservoir Transfer System.
This project is currently in the design phase.
Construction is planned for late-2029 and will take 2-3 years to complete.
Site investigations
What we’re doing
- Geotechnical investigations within Maroondah Reservoir using a floating drilling pontoon.
When
- Geotechnical investigations on water - between 22 July and 14 August 2026
What you might notice
- Temporary closure of the dam wall, 22 - 23 July and 13 - 14 August 2026
- Barge and floating drilling pontoon on water
- Additional Melbourne Water and contractor workers in the park
Selecting a pipeline route
We have completed a detailed assessment to identify the most suitable route for a new underground pipeline, considering operational and maintenance requirements, as well as environmental, heritage, social and cost factors.
This route crosses the Reservoir Park and then follows parts of Maroondah Parade and Donnelley's Weir Road, Healesville.
Managing community impacts
We’re working with Yarra Ranges Council and other organisations to help reduce disruptions to the community as much as possible.
We’re committed to keeping you informed as the project progresses and will continue to share updates and provide opportunities for feedback.
