Welcome to THREE DAMS ESTATE

This blog is a collection of info and photos from our sustainable Eco project in the Heathcote wine growing area of Central Victoria. In Nov 2007, we purchased a 20 acre plot of elevated land just out of town and set about creating a lifestyle based on sustainable living and minimal resource use. The house itself was rescued from demolition in suburban Melbourne and transported to the property in 2 stages and was positioned facing due north to allow maximum sun exposure for the solar panels. The house is heated in winter by a slow combustion heater (generously donated by a friend) that burns wood salvaged from fallen trees on the property and in the surrounding State Forest. Rainwater is stored in a 55,000 litre water tank and most of our fresh vegetables and herbs are grown on site in the large fenced vegetable garden. All food scraps are composted and bottles, papers, metals etc are all recycled. The house is fully off grid and is powered by a hybrid 1kW PV solar/wind turbine system. The solar array is adjustable to maximise solar gain at different times of the year.

This year we have begun work on our small vineyard and also plan to plant a grove of almond trees.

Please enjoy the photos and please feel free to contact us if with your queries or comments.