Designer’s water ways

By Russell Bennett
OLINDA landscape designer Phillip Johnson is not leaving any stone un-turned in his quest to save water.
And he is calling on Yarra Ranges Council to install chemical-free public swimming pools that use recycled water.
Mr Johnson’s work on water conservation in garden design and construction saw named one of three finalists in the Australian Achiever title at the 2011 savewater! Awards last month.
He was named one of 28 finalists from a field of more than 1000 applicants across Australia and overseas.
Mr Johnson said his focus for many years has been on implementing sustainable backyard design that conserved water.
“When we assess backyards and gardens, we assess what’s happening with the water – where does it go when it comes off the roof or runs off the pavement? Are there rain water tanks?” he said.
“Just about every person in our local area has a fire-prone property and we look at ways of saving as much water as possible for practical reasons – like re-using it in fire season.”
Phillip Johnson Landscapes is known for its construction of backyard billabongs with water levels that fluctuate seasonally and retain water when it’s needed.
“They’re beautiful to look at, but we also have to be smart about this,” Mr Johnson said.
“Australia is a land of extreme environments – drought, floods and fire.
“We need to be careful with the way we manage our water and make sure we don’t become complacent.”
Mr Johnson was recently invited to present a paper at the International Natural Pool Conference in the Czech Republic.
He spoke on the benefits of natural, chemical-free swimming pools using recycled water, rather than filling pools with mains water – which he says happens in most European countries.
“I just want to inspire people to make a difference in how they treat water and the environment,” Mr Johnson said.
“They look great and they’re functional – protecting people from fire.”
Mr Johnson’s company has even installed practical water features on homes affected by the Black Saturday bushfires, including a moat around a home in Marysville.
“What we’re doing is so exciting,” he said.
“And the majority of my team is local, from the Monbulk area.
“It’s hills people making a difference on the international stage.”
For more information visit www.phillipjohnson.com.au.