Showing posts with label Water. Show all posts

Saturday, October 9, 2021

Paddington Reservoir - Paddington - Sydney Water Suppply - New South Wales

Paddington Reservoir - Oxford Street - Paddington - New South Wales.

The Paddington Reservoir, also known as the Paddington Reservoir Gardens, is a heritage-listed site located in Paddington, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Here's some information about the Paddington Reservoir:

1. History: The Paddington Reservoir was originally constructed in the 1860s as an underground water reservoir to supply water to the growing population of Sydney. It was part of the Sydney's water supply infrastructure, designed by engineer Edward Bell.

2. Architectural Design: The reservoir was designed in a Romanesque Revival architectural style, which was popular during the Victorian era. The structure features a blend of brickwork and iron columns, with arches and vaulted ceilings.

3. Function: The reservoir was in operation until 1899 when it was decommissioned. It then went through several stages of use, including storage, workshops, and a service station. In the 20th century, the site fell into disrepair and was eventually abandoned.

4. Transformation into Gardens: In the 1990s, a redevelopment project aimed at transforming the reservoir into a public space was initiated. The site was restored and converted into the Paddington Reservoir Gardens, opening to the public in 2008.

5. Features: The Paddington Reservoir Gardens blend the historic elements of the underground reservoir with modern design. The site incorporates sunken gardens, walkways, seating areas, and reflective pools, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere.

6. Heritage Significance: The Paddington Reservoir is listed on the New South Wales State Heritage Register and the Australian National Heritage List. It is recognized for its historical and architectural importance, as well as its contribution to the local community and the city's heritage.

7. Events and Activities: The Paddington Reservoir Gardens are a popular venue for various cultural events, art installations, and community activities. It also serves as a tranquil oasis for locals and visitors seeking respite from the bustling city.

The Paddington Reservoir stands as a testament to the historical water infrastructure of Sydney and has been successfully repurposed as a unique urban park. Its blend of historic and contemporary design elements, along with its peaceful ambiance, makes it a notable attraction in Paddington.

Friday, November 6, 2020

Reservoir Street - Surry Hills

Reservoir Street

Friday, March 13, 2020

The Tank Stream - Sydney

When Arthur Phillip First Saw What Is Now Circular Quay & The Freshwater Estaury That Ran Into The Quay, He Must’ve Sighed One Of The Biggest Sighs OfRelief, After Being Let Down With What He’d Been Told About Botany Bay, & That The Land Was Fertile.
Arthur Phillip was left with no choice once the first fleet arrived in botany Bay, he was left with no choice but to get in a smaller boat & search the heads & that’s for being presented to them and Port Jackson which had been marked on Captain Cook‘s map from 1774

The Watercourse Named The Tank Stream Was An Important Source Of Fresh Water For Aboriginal People Before European Settlement. As The 19th Century Progressed & The Population Of Sydney Grew, The Tank Stream Was First Polluted & Then Channeled & Diverted Underground Into A Series Of Drains & Pipes.
Fifty Four Worked Stone Artefcts Were Discovered In 1996 During Excavations For The Construction Of The City Recital Hall At Angel Place Which Was Built Above A Section Of The Tank Stream.
This Discovery Shows That The Aboriginal People

The Tank Stream is an underground watercourse located in the central business district of Sydney, Australia. It holds historical significance as one of the earliest sources of freshwater for the European settlers who established the colony. Here's an overview of the history of the Tank Stream:

Aboriginal Use: Before European settlement, the Tank Stream was known to the local Aboriginal people, specifically the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. They used the stream as a source of freshwater and likely guided early European explorers to its location.

European Settlement: When the First Fleet arrived in Sydney Cove in 1788, led by Captain Arthur Phillip, they faced challenges in finding a reliable freshwater source. The Tank Stream was discovered and identified as a potential water supply due to its relatively consistent flow.

Water Supply for the Colony: The Tank Stream played a critical role in providing freshwater to the early colony. Settlers built simple wooden tanks and channels to collect and distribute water from the stream to meet their needs. The tanks gave the stream its name.

Growing Population and Pollution: As the colony grew, the demand for water increased. However, the increasing population also led to pollution of the watercourse. Human waste, industrial runoff, and other pollutants contaminated the stream, making the water less suitable for consumption.

Decline and Superseding: Over time, the Tank Stream's water quality deteriorated further, and it became inadequate to meet the needs of Sydney's growing population. The stream's role as a primary water source gradually diminished.

Urban Development: The growth of Sydney's urban landscape led to the stream being covered and built over to make way for streets, buildings, and infrastructure. The stream was progressively enclosed in underground culverts.

Rediscovery and Heritage Recognition: Despite being hidden beneath the city's surface, the historical significance of the Tank Stream was not forgotten. In the late 20th century, efforts were made to recognize and preserve the heritage of the Tank Stream. Signage, plaques, and historical markers were installed to remind Sydneysiders and visitors of the stream's importance.

Today: While the Tank Stream's water no longer flows as it once did, it remains an important historical symbol of Sydney's early days. The stream's legacy is preserved through heritage initiatives, education, and the acknowledgment of its contribution to the development of the city.

Visitors to Sydney can learn about the history of the Tank Stream through interpretive displays, plaques, and historical walks that highlight its significance in the context of the city's growth and evolution.