Share a Water Story

From Monday 6 to Sunday 12 August.

Our water is running out. Drought and climate change have become realities of our present and future. Water restrictions have seen the gradual end of running under the sprinkler in the backyard to cool off in stifling summer heat or washing your neighbour’s cars for some extra pocket money – activities we once took for granted.

Similarly, there are a whole range of water-related appliances, products and objects that we are no longer permitted to use: certain showerheads, hose fittings, inefficient sprinkler heads, slip and slides, water pistols and all sorts of other toys and products.

Many of us have made the switch to new washing machines, showerheads and dishwashers that use water and energy more efficiently. Recycling water has also become a part of our lives, from simply keeping a bucket in the shower and siphoning washing machine water into the garden to installing rainwater tanks and grey-water systems.

There can be no question that the water shortage has affected us all and forced us to adapt our behaviour. This is a period of great change.

As part of the Water Smart Home Project, Museum Victoria is building a collection of objects, trade literature, educational materials and stories that document and reflect this period. This contemporary collection will be a valuable resource for future exhibitions and research.

You have an opportunity to be involved. Between Monday 6 and Sunday 12 August there will be a 'Share a Water Story' table set up in the Discovery Centre at Melbourne Museum. We invite you to visit and fill in the Share a Water Story form to share your experiences with us. Tell us your recollections and reminiscences of those activities that drought has put an end to. We want to hear about how you have adapted to this shift.

This period of drought is one that we will look back on as a significant point in the history of Victoria. Help us document this moment in time and bring it to life with your story.