Innovative nature play space to open at Salt Torquay

A play space inspired by sustainability, a local endangered species and native plants will open next week at Barwon Water’s 7.5-star One Planet Living-rated Salt Torquay estate.

Barwon Water general manager Strategy, Systems and Environment Seamus Butcher said that the play space, which is accessible to kids of all abilities, represented a hooded plover’s nest.

“It’s designed in a way to encourage kids to ‘fly’ through the nests and move around the plovers’ eggs and educates all users on endangered species and the importance of nature conservation.”

Mr Butcher said Barwon Water’s commitment to reconciliation and partnering with the Wadawurrung traditional owners had informed the design of the play space, which includes artwork based on native vegetation.

“Local artists were commissioned to create sculptures inspired by the coastal bearded heath and salt club-sedge, two plants commonly found along the local coast.”

The play space sits directly above a stormwater retention basin and raingarden that filters and treats stormwater flows before they are discharged downstream, ultimately to Spring Creek and the Torquay front beach, which is just one of the many sustainable design features that sets Salt Torquay apart.

Along with best practice integrated water management, other eco features of the estate include household solar and battery storage, electric car charging points, and smart water meters.

Salt Torquay’s other sustainable design features include a 250 kW solar array which – combined with the rooftop solar panels – is expected to meet almost all of the estate’s total energy needs.

Rainwater harvesting and reuse for toilet, laundry and garden irrigation is expected to cut mains consumption by 30 per cent.

“The investment in Salt Torquay and the One Planet Living framework is emblematic of our commitment to tackling climate change through our target of 100% renewable electricity by 2025, and zero net emissions by 2030.

“Salt Torquay represent Barwon Water’s commitment to accessibility, sustainability and affordability.

“The proceeds from the sale of lots from Salt Torquay help keep customer bills affordable as we deliver our essential water and sewerage services.”

Located between Murnong Circuit and Seabreeze Drive, the play space at Salt Torquay will in time become a gathering space for the existing community and new Salt Torquay residents.

The estate has been designed in accordance with the One Planet Living framework and has recently achieved national leadership accreditation.

Limited fully serviced and titled land remains available for sale along with architecturally designed, two- and three-bedroom townhouses.