Lillydale Lake

Infobox lake
lake_name = Lillydale Lake
image_lake =
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location = Lilydale, Victoria
coords = coord|37|45|57|S|145|21|11|E|type:waterbody_region:AU|display=inline,title
type = artificial lake
inflow =
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catchment =
basin_countries = Australia
length =
width =
area = 28 ha
depth =
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Lillydale Lake is an artificial lake and wetlands area created in Lilydale, Melbourne, Australia. The park in which it is situated covers over 100 hectares and includes extensive recreational facilities.

The lake covers 28 hectares with a 440 metre long dam wall. There are over 10 kilometres of shared trails, a community room and meeting facilities, a monster playground, toilets, BBQs and a picnic area. A boat launching ramp provides for non-powered boating. There are also two areas where dogs can excersise "off leash"

History

Areas of Lilydale township are low lying and susceptible to flooding from the Olinda Creek.

In 1853 Surveyor James Blackburn saw the site as a location for a water catchment though the Yan Yean Reservoir was eventually built instead.

The local council proposed a 65 hectare park in 1969 with several more proposals made but due to lack of funds none eventuated. Following floods in September 1984, construction of the lake was proposed to prevent future flooding and provide recreational facilities. Construction began in 1988 and was completed in June 1990. It was officially opened to the public on July 7, 1990.

Local residents often walk, run or cycle around the lake for fitness reasons.

Lilydale or Lillydale?

Prior to the amalgamation of several municipalities to form the Shire of Yarra Ranges in 1994, the suburb of Lilydale (spelt with one L) was located in the Shire of Lillydale (with a double L). It is believed that when the shire was first declared in 1872 the spelling of Lillydale with 2 L's was an error that had never been corrected and has traditionally persisted to this day for anything associated with the former Shire of Lillydale. Hence the spelling of Lillydale in the names of Lillydale Lake and Museum of Lillydale. Anything associated with the suburb of Lilydale is spelt with a single L.

External Sources

*"Lillydale Lake: History & Development", Shire of Yarra Ranges, Lilydale, Australia
*"Lillydale Lake: Park Map", Shire of Yarra Ranges, Lilydale, Australia