DiscoVietnam wrote: ↑27 Jan 2024, 2:43 pm
I think there's something to this rumour, but not in the sense of deliberate random flushing of the drain system.
In 2009 Stonnington council built a storm water harvesting reservoir (300kl) under and around Como park oval which diverts water from the large Prahran main drain catchment, which is serviced by Anzac and Como falls drains. The harvested storm water is treated and used for watering of parklands, toilets, fountains, etc.
When the system operates correctly and the reservoir is not full, both Anzac and Como falls drains may have less water running through them. When operating incorrectly, this could lead to more water in the drains. Water may be released into the drains (especially Como) when the reservoir is full.
I took a stroll up Como two weeks back and noticed a distinct smell of chlorine at one point less than 1km up the right split, which may be related to the treatment for the reservoir. A small pipe branched off in the direction of Como Park in the same area. So the activity of the harvesting reservoir may well be the origin of what the OP heard about?
On another note - what a great drain! The falls were fantastic! Lots of fun. A couple of areas of spraycrete evidences recent-ish repair work up near the third falls. Reminds us that these wonderful places won't last forever. Explore them while you can!!