The National Trust of Australia (Victoria) has commenced a new water testing project at Rippon Lea Estate, aimed at protecting the long-term health and biodiversity of the property's iconic ornamental lake. The initiative is designed to ensure the lake can continue to be enjoyed by visitors and the wider community for generations to come.
The project has been made possible through a 2024 South East Water Community Grant, awarded to support improvements to the 150-year-old filtration system that services the heritage-listed gardens and lake.
Rippon Lea Estate, located in Elsternwick, features a rare integrated water management system. This historic infrastructure captures some stormwater run-off and channels it into a reservoir via an underground irrigation system, preventing it from flowing into Port Phillip Bay. The system plays a vital role in irrigating the gardens sustainably.
Maintaining the quality of the lake and surrounding landscape is essential to preserving the visitor experience and the site’s ecological value. However, the water system has faced increasing challenges in recent years, including frequent outbreaks of aquatic weeds, declining water quality, and impacts on local flora and fauna.
The new project involves the use of a professional water testing instrument to allow for ongoing data collection. By building a record of water quality fluctuations over time, the National Trust will be better equipped to anticipate issues and implement targeted management strategies.
Justin Buckley, Executive Manager – Gardens and Landscapes, at the National Trust of Australia (Victoria), said the lake is fundamental to both the aesthetic and environmental values of the site.
“The reason Rippon Lea Estate gardens is recognised as a ‘top 5 biodiversity hotspot’ within the City of Glen Eira – and a real city oasis – is due to Rippon Lea’s lake and unique water management system,” said Mr Buckley.
“Without the lake, we wouldn’t have the beautiful 14 acres of internationally significant heritage garden.
“The project will enable monitoring and analysis of water quality fluctuations to better manage weed outbreaks and showcase improved water and environmental management to the community.
“The project is enabling better water management, to enhance the values of the site and educate visitors.”
In addition to water quality monitoring, the project includes upgrades to irrigation hardware and fittings to enhance water flow and aeration in the lake. These improvements will help reduce excess phosphorus levels, which in turn will discourage algae and invasive weed growth.
Karen Lau, General Manager Strategy and Stakeholder at South East Water, highlighted the importance of supporting projects that invest in long-term water sustainability.
“Rippon Lea Estate’s lake was already an impressive example of planning for water security and sustainability,” said Ms Lau.
“Not only will the lake’s water quality benefit, but also the flora and fauna, and in turn, the visitors to Rippon Lea, demonstrating the impact of helping people learn about water and use it in the best way possible.”
The National Trust of Australia (Victoria) acknowledges the generous support of South East Water and looks forward to sharing the outcomes of the project as it contributes to the ongoing preservation and enhancement of Rippon Lea’s heritage landscape.
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