Call for Toorourrong Stories

A working group has been formed as part of the Whittlesea Bushfire Memorial Group to source photos, information and stories concerning the Toorourrong Reservoir from its inception in the 1860’s to the present day, including the devastating 2009 bushfires. 

The rotunda at Toorourrong that was situated near the carpark, surprisingly was one of the few structures that survived the bushfire and is to be refurbished and will contain the story of the reservoir, the park, the people who maintained it, the community who enjoyed it and the volunteers and emergency services who assisted on Black Saturday.

An afternoon will be held at Whittlesea Masonic Lodge, Beech Street, Whittlesea on Sunday, 29th June, 2014 from 2pm to 4pm for anyone who may have photos and stories to share. 

Further information please contact Jan Hyndman on 9464 0001 or Fay Zanatta on 9716 2236.

We would also appreciate any donations or recollections for the local history collection at Mill Park Library. Please contact the Local History Librarian

Toorourrong Reservoir

Melbourne Water is planning on removing much of the old Clear water channels on the downstream side of the reservoir wall when carrying out an upgrade to the wall. "Unfortunately, this upgrade means we have to remove the bluestone and granite from the spillway structure that runs to Yean Yean Reservoir and outlet structure to the Clearwater Channel" they said.
No consultation was carried out before making the decision. Now Melbourne Water "will be hosting a series of open community forums" for residents.

Whittlesea residents have lodged an application with the National Trust for protection of the Toorourong Reservoir's historic bluestone and granite spillway. The 130 year old structure is situated at Jack's Creek Road, Whittlesea.

More information can be found on the Facebook page listed for those with Facebook access.