Water from the world record breaking Rod Laver Arena pool today provided a welcome boost to the city’s parks and gardens courtesy of a 1.3 kilometre pipeline, Minister for Sport and Recreation James Merlino said.
Mr Merlino said the Royal Botanic Gardens and the City of Melbourne were awash with 6.8 million litres of water used in the pools at Rod Laver Arena during the 12th FINA World Championships.
"Over the last two weeks this water has showcased international swimming greats and world record breakers. It will now be used to improve the environment of Melbourne's green heritage - the Royal Botanic Gardens and historic trees," Mr Melino said.
“While many Victorians are recycling water from around the house to keep their gardens alive, the Bracks Government is also committed to recycling water from this event to benefit Melbourne’s parks and gardens.
“The bulk of the 6.8 million litres of water will be piped across the Yarra to the historic Ornamental Lake at the Royal Botanic Gardens which is currently at record low levels.
“The City of Melbourne will also take water from the Rod Laver Arena pools for use on heritage trees around the city that are currently suffering in drought conditions. Water will also be stored in the pond at Princess Park to irrigate trees.
“Organisers have 30 hours to treat the water and completely remove it from Rod Laver Arena. The relocation process kicked into action immediately following the conclusion of the FINA World Championships last night,” he said.
The temporary pipeline will run from the pump across RLA to the north bank of the Yarra to Swan Street Bridge before continuing along the southern bank to the Royal Botanic Gardens stormwater outfall pit before being drawn through the existing overflow pipe for the lake.
The distribution pipe into the lake will be installed with a flotation device to ensure that water temperature and distribution is as even as possible
Dr Philip Moors, Director and Chief Executive of the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne welcomed the initiative saying that water conservation was a huge priority.
“Having enough water in the lake is vital to support nearby heritage trees and the plants and wildlife inside the lake so this will give it a welcomed top up,” he said.
Melbourne’s Lord Mayor John So said reusing the water would be a boon to Melbourne’s trees.
"The challenge for Council at this time is to minimise our water use while keeping trees alive. This extra water will assist in meeting this challenge," Mr So said.