Pipe Dream and the Flooded Gardens: The Yan Yean Reservoir, Plenty River Flume & The Pipe Walk

Before Naarm - Melbourne was known for its coffee and its culture, it was a city on the brink - plagued by disease, thirst, and sewage in the streets. In this watery episode of Down the Yarra, we trace the story of the Yan Yean Reservoir, the remarkable Plenty River Flume, and the epic Pipe Walk that brought clean water to the growing con the 1850s. From bushland pipelines to the hilarious moment that the first tap was turned on - flooding The Carlton Gardens - we explore the engineering, chaos, and the legacy of Naarm - Melbourne’s earliest water supply. Trigger Warning: This episode contains references to colonial infrastructure projects that impacted Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Country and waterways. Listeners discretion is advised. Watch: Phillip Mallis’ (YouTube) video “The Pipe Walk” Listen: Down the Yarra Season 2 episode - Royal Exhibition Building and the Carlton Gardens. Next Episode Teaser: Don’t miss our deep dive into the saga that is Naarm - Melbourne’s long - awaited and frankly overdue Airport Rail Link.