The visit highlighted how unique Patterson Lakes is among the waterways and catchments we manage throughout the Port Phillip and Westernport region.

Nowhere else are tidal gates and jetties under the management of Melbourne Water. The maintenance of the waterways and lakes demands specialist knowledge and expertise. Every day our Patterson Lakes crew are busy tending to the unique features and drainage assets that protect the area’s 1,400 residents, their properties and local roads from flooding. 

"Everything around here is constructed, it’s an artificial environment but it’s got its own beauty", explains Paul Hodgson, Manager Bayside & Dandenong, Waterways & Catchment Services.

During their visit, our leadership team reflected on:

• The remarkable history of Patterson Lakes and how progressive the development was at the time it was constructed, nearly 50 years ago.

• How stormwater management for urban development has come a long way. Our best practice principles now incorporate water-sensitive urban design for rainwater to be captured, slowed, reused and percolated into the ground.

• The design of the Quiet Lakes, the challenges this presents and how we need to continue to seek ways to improve the water quality management to ensure they continue to be a great place to live for generations to come.