Melbourne Zoo Water Recycling Plant

In early 2006 Kane Constructions completed this cutting edge $5m water treatment facility allowing Melbourne Zoo to collect, treat and recycle stormwater.

The facility is located at the northern end of the zoological gardens ?the lowest point to which stormwater and effluent captured from the wash down of animals flows. It is then monitored and treated with the resultant recycled water ?class 3A1 - being reticulated throughout the Zoo to water gardens and supply the many ponds.

Being located within an operational environment, significant planning was required to establish separate vehicle access to accommodate construction and provide separation from the general public. Two large concrete storage tanks were constructed below ground, requiring over 13,000m2 of material to be bulk excavated. Detailed excavation for the 300mm thick ground slab was carried out below the water table.

The treatment plant including osmosis equipment is housed within an architecturally designed powder coated steel structure clad with translucent Dampalon panels. A timber spotted gum bridge with frameless glass balustrades provides access for the public to view the inner workings of the facility with pipes, pumps and filters being coded used bright colours.

The facility is also used as an educational tool being the culmination of a later education trail developed by Melbourne Zoo. Kane is proud to have delivered this unique facility which enables the client to practice sustainable water consumption.

The facility was delivered by on time and within budget via a fixed price lump sum contract.

We wish to express our appreciation for the high level of enthusiasm and support that Kane provided throughout this unique project. We look forward to working on another successful project with you in the future.
James Donaldson, Zoos Victoria