By Molly Magennis
Melbourne Ballpark’s playing fields in Altona will now be drought proof by using stormwater for irrigation.
The $328,000 stormwater harvesting project was led by the Labor Government in conjunction with Greater Western Water, Melbourne Water, Hobsons Bay City Council and Melbourne Ballpark.
Not only will it save up to 10 million litres of drinking water each year and keep Melbourne Ballpark’s playing fields looking green all year round, but the scheme will also help to
future-proof both the community’s recreational spaces and premier sporting facilities.
The stormwater will be delivered through a 300-metre pipeline that connects the playing fields to the Laverton Stormwater Harvesting Scheme.
Stormwater harvesting involves capturing and diverting stormwater runoff from urban areas during rainfall.
The water, which would otherwise wash pollutants into Port Phillip Bay, is treated, stored and used to irrigate parks, gardens and public open spaces.
The project forms part of the Laverton Stormwater Harvesting Scheme, a wetlands area that also supplies water to neighbouring AB Shaw Reserve.
Member for Altona Jill Hennessy said it was great to see the Laverton Stormwater Harvesting Scheme irrigating Melbourne Ballpark, “as this project will help improve liveability through greener open spaces, better sporting facilities and increased community access.”
Minister for Water Lisa Neville said stormwater irrigation was important as Melbourne’s population continues to grow and as the climate gets warmer and drier.
Melbourne Ballpark is home to Baseball Victoria and the Melbourne Aces, a professional Australian Baseball League team.
