Operating as both Melbourne Hydro & Vacuum Excavations and Plumbtrax Infrastructure Services, we are proud to have contributed to the successful delivery of a brand-new rainwater harvesting system at the historic Puffing Billy Railway Station in Belgrave, Victoria.

Operating since the early 1900s, Puffing Billy is an iconic part of Melbourne’s heritage and continues to attract visitors from across Australia and around the world. Being involved in works at such a significant location highlights the importance of combining modern environmental solutions with historically important sites.

This project forms part of a broader regional initiative across the Dandenong Ranges aimed at capturing and storing rainwater at selected sites. The system is designed to automatically release harvested water into natural waterways, streams, and creeks during drier and forecast drought periods. The objective is to help maintain healthier water flows and support the protection of endangered native platypus populations that call this region home.

The works were delivered through a collaborative partnership between local government, state agencies, and academic research bodies — demonstrating the strong commitment to sustainable water management and environmental preservation within the region.

Project Team

Principal Contractor: Plumbtrax Infrastructure Services

Client: Yarra Ranges Shire Council (YRSC)

Funding: Department of Energy, Environment & Climate Action (DEECA)

Research: University of Melbourne

Consultant: Water Studio