Project description

The Pakenham Lakeside Fountain is a prominent water feature located within Lakeside Pakenham precinct. 

In November 2020, Council completed a major upgrade to the fountain after the previous structure reached the end of its operational life.  

Maintenance works 

Council completes regular maintenance works to the lake and fountain to protect the health of the lake, the safety of the community, and the long‑term operation of the fountain. 

Protecting the lake and environment 

Lakes are living systems that need regular care. Maintenance helps improve water movement and oxygen levels, reduce algae and odours, and support the health of plants and wildlife. 

Looking after the lake helps keep it clean, safe and environmentally sustainable. 

Keeping the fountain in good condition 

The fountain uses mechanical and electrical equipment such as pumps, motors and lights. Regular maintenance helps prevent breakdowns, protect equipment from damage caused by low water levels, heat or debris, and extend the life of the system. 

 Sometimes the fountain needs to be temporarily turned off to avoid longterm damage. 

Keeping the community safe 

Routine checks help identify safety risks such as electrical issues, damaged equipment or hazards around the lake and viewing areas. 

Maintenance helps ensure the area remains safe for everyone to enjoy. 

Responding to weather and seasonal conditions 

Hot, dry weather and low rainfall can affect water levels and fountain performance.  

Council may adjust how the lake and fountain operate to protect equipment, respond to changing conditions and conserve water when needed. 

Funding

All maintenance works to Pakenham Lakeside fountain are funded by Council.

Progress update

From Monday 2 February 2026, the fountain at Pakenham Lakeside will be temporarily turned off. 

Why is the fountain being turned off? 

Recent high temperatures and drying winds have significantly lowered the water levels in the lake. As a result, the fountain is no longer able to operate safely at full capacity. 

Water levels are currently below the ideal level required for the system to run continuously without the risk of damage to the fountain’s motor and lighting. 

How does low water affect the fountain? 

For the fountain to operate properly, the pump motor must remain fully submerged in the lake. This helps prevent: 

• Overheating 

• Motor burnout 

• Damage to lighting equipment 

At the moment, water levels are too low to allow this to happen safely. 

Protecting the fountain and the lake 

The decision to temporarily switch off the fountain has been made to protect the long‑term operation of the fountain and to support the overall health of the lake. 

Council is hopeful that upcoming rainfall will improve water levels, allowing the fountain to be turned back on once conditions are suitable. 

What happens next? 

Council will continue to: 

• Carry out regular maintenance checks around the lake 

• Monitor water levels and the fountain’s functionality 

• Review conditions over the coming weeks 

We will continue to keep the community updated on the status of the Lakeside Fountain.