Engineering the Invisible AGAIN: A Walking Tour of Water, Wastewater and Poo Chimneys

A Walking Tour of Sydney's Hidden Water Infrastructure

Back by popular demand after a successful run last year, Pipes, Pumps & Poo Chimneys returns for another morning exploring the fascinating world of water and wastewater infrastructure hidden in plain sight.

Join water engineers Sally Williamson and Gemma Keane for a leisurely 5 km walk from Tempe to Sydenham, stopping along the way to uncover the stories behind Sydney's water supply, sewer networks, pumping stations, ventilation shafts (yes, the famous poo chimneys!) and other pieces of infrastructure that quietly keep the city running.

Whether you're an engineer, infrastructure enthusiast, history buff, or simply curious about what's happening beneath your feet, this tour offers a unique opportunity to see the city through a different lens. We'll share interesting facts, historical insights, and engineering stories, and we'll do our best to answer your questions along the way.

Come prepared for a walk, a few surprises, and a newfound appreciation for the pipes, pumps and poo chimneys that help make modern urban life possible.

Distance: Approximately 5 km
Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours
Start: Tempe Water Tower (in Tempe Recreational Reserve)
Finish: Sydenham Railway Station (or more realistically, one of the breweries nearby)

"You'll never look at a manhole, vent shaft or water main the same way again."

Tickets are free but you are encouraged to donate to WaterAid via Gemma's Walk For Water page: https://fundraise.wateraid.org.au/fundraisers/gemmakeane/walkforwater