The aim of this page is to keep a running update on information that is found after the publication of the book as the story is limited by the time and resources to write it. I also expect many things will come to light after it is published as people look through their attics. The story will never be complete but here I will try and to a monthly update of new things.
Click here to send email with photos and stories you would like to share.
About the book
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Nestled in the heart of Newport, Melbourne, Australia, lies a place where history, nature, and community intertwine. Known as Koort Boork Boork by the Traditional Custodians, the Yallukit-willam people, this land has seen a century of transformation—from its beginnings as a potential meeting place, to a bustling quarry, and finally, to a cherished urban sanctuary.
When settlers arrived, they started to quarry the bluestone of the area, using it for ballast, construction and roads. The quarrying accelerated until they closed in 1968. For nearly two decades, a fierce battle raged: should these lakes be filled with rubbish, or preserved as a natural haven? A compromise was reached, one lake was filled with waste but the other two were saved, paving the way for their rebirth as a new place.
Many species of birds, plants, and reptiles made it their home, transforming this once industrial site into a thriving ecosystem. Then, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Newport Lakes became more than just a park—it became a refuge. People flocked to its peaceful shores, seeking solace in nature and connecting to the community.
Though it will never return to the Koort Boork Boork of 200 years ago, Newport Lakes is evolving into something just as beloved: a place where the past meets the future, where nature and community flourish side by side. This book tells the stories that have made the Newport Lakes Reserve, celebrating all the people involved and looking to the future of its potential.
The stories in this book are told by one of world’s leading regenerative-placemaking practitioners, incorporating information from national archives, newspapers, community stories and interviews.
Video of Newport Lakes in 1977 – Video initially produced by Lucy Plata, with Frank Plata and Joy Leniart ne Cann. Shared and edited with permission and very grateful to be able to share this.
My Story
I live near Newport Lakes and work in the fields of Regenerative development and Placemaking, I love this place and wanted to share its journey. Here we have a photo of the stepping stones, and a walk around with Maarten Hulzebosch who in the late 80s early 90s fought for all the things we see today. With us is Suzette one of the local rangers that shares her knowledge of ecology with the community.
History
The book shares stories found in the archives and libraries around Australia. The history is not complete nor comprehensive but what an amateur, curious person found interesting.
Quarrying
The quarrying started small and with hand tools, done by locals who were part of the community. With mechanization came greater impact and disruption of the community and the ‘owner’ no longer lived locally but became faceless companies paving the way for the loss of community goodwill
Fight to save the lakes
For nearly 20 years various people fought to not have the three lakes filled with rubbish. In 1986 they lost the battle for the Northwest hole, but won the battle to save the other two. The result is the reserve we have today.
Discover Newport Lakes
There are lots of different walks you can take around the lakes and things to see. To download the walk map click here.
Newport Lakes Stories and Contributive Practice 