History and Water

The Risdon Brook Reservoir was built by Hobart Water's predecessor, the Metropolitan Water Board, in 1968. It is a rock-filled reservoir which holds up to 3,600 megalitres of water. The water in the reservoir is fully treated and has been piped from the Bryn Estyn Water Treatment Plant at New Norfolk.

The reservoir and water catchment area it sits within are located in a richly historic region which was once home to the Moomaire-mener Aboriginal people.

In 1803 a small British party under the command of Lieutenant John Bowen of the Royal Navy landed at nearby Risdon Cove to found a colony in Van Diemen's Land. Lacking a plentiful supply of fresh water, they later relocated across the river to Sullivans Cove, the modern day site of Hobart City.

Risdon Brook Park plays a vital role - it holds one of Hobart's eight drinking water reservoirs.

Drinking Water Catchment

The water stored in Risdon Brook Reservoir begins its journey when it is collected from the Derwent River and treated at Bryn Estyn Water Treatment Plant to extract impurities. It is then piped to Risdon Brook Reservoir for storage. The water in the Risdon Brook reservoir goes directly to homes on the eastern shore.