Quarry Reserve, Ferntree Gully

Swimming Hole Heaven in Melbourne

This former quarry in Ferntree Gully is deep, cool, and protected from the wind, making it a popular swim on hot days, but with sometimes poor water quality. Above: The quarry wall looming over the lake at Quarry Reserve (Order this image)

As a general rule, with few exceptions, I avoid swimming in old quarries. However I put aside my misgivings to get in the water here on a couple of separate occasions, and will share the positives of this swim first. At over 200 metres long, this water body is large enough for a decent swim, and can cater for a large crowd on hot days. Because the water level is well below the surrounding landscape, with a descent that resembles the start of the journey to the centre of the earth, it is well sheltered from any strong winds. Entry into the water at the northern end is only moderately steep, allowing swimmers to walk in rather than having to swim straight away. I have seen people of all ages loving this place, with teenagers doing (not permitted) tricks into the water from the wooden platform, and older swimmers sitting in the water, taking a cool bath. Inflatables can be useful for spending time in the deeper water, away from the shore. Above: The more gradual entry point for my swim at Quarry Reserve (Order this image)

Now for the reality check. Like most quarries, with no surface water outflow, the throughflow of water here is poor. This results in poor water quality, and poor visibility in the water. This has led to the council recommendation on site of "swimming not advised while Knox Council develops a water quality plan" and that the lake "may not be suitable for swimming at this time". Council even advise to keep your dogs out of the water. When I swam here in early summer, when conditions had been cooler for several months prior, the water was fairly clear, with no visible signs of algae. However when I swam here in late summer, prior to the warning signs going up, there was a distinct green tinge to the water, suggestive of algae in the water column. Signs now added on site advise that blue-green algae may be present at times. On that basis, whilst I have swum here, I do not recommend it, at least until the local council has completed its water quality plan. Above: The fishing platforms overlooking deeper water at Quarry Reserve (Order this image)

If you decide to not swim, it is still a pleasant spot for a walk with your dog or a picnic. The facilities are relatively new, including the playground, and the lawns are well maintained with views of the water. The dozens of steps also offer plenty of opportunity for some exercise.

Below is a quick video of swimming in the lake at Quarry Reserve, which gives my perspective on the distance from the car park down to the water, and an extrapolated interpretation of the council sign that was on site during this swim.

Before you head out, make sure to read the swimming safety information and check with the managing authority for any current change of conditions. Specific to this site, the managing authority states that swimming is not advised here and that harmful algae may be present in the water. If you are entering the water, the managing authority advises that it is best to avoid any algae or scum, and to seek medical advice if you are sick after entering the water. There is no lifeguard on duty. The managing authority warns that jumping from fixed structures is dangerous. At the western end of the lake, the managing authority warns of uneven ground, steep slopes, and that access to that part of the lake is not advised. The marker indicates the approximate location of the best spot I found for entering the water. If the map is not zoomed in locally, as can occur with some browsers, simply click or tap on "View Larger Map" below.
View Larger Map Thanks to David for letting me know about this swim after it had been converted from a quarry and opened to the public. If you have swum at Quarry Reserve, I would love to hear about your experiences. Please fill in the comment box below. All fields are required if you would like your comments published on this website.

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