Walka Water Works, as well as being a popular picnic and recreation area in the Maitland district, is also steeped in history that gives it a special place in the Lower Hunter's heritage. The complex features its pumphouse with striking chimney and ornate brickwork and is one of the largest and most intact 19th Century industrial complexes in the Hunter Valley. It is a striking example of Victorian Italianate architecture which represents the pinnacle of fine Victorian buildings housing large machinery. In the early 1880's the rapidly increasing population of Newcastle and surrounds needed a safer and more reliable source of drinking water than storage tanks and sinking bores and placing barriers in creeks. The NSW Government therefore commenced construction of the Walka Waterworks in 1882. The complex was largely completed by 1887 at a cost of 170,000 Pounds. It was eventually closed in 1929. All the plant from the complex was sold for scrap in 1949 for 2,500 Pounds. The Waterworks was a significant advance in public health in the region by providing the first permanent clean water supply. The Waterworks complex was classified by the National Trust in 1976. In 1984 a trust was formed to reopen the site and restore the complex. The large lake area with over 300 species of birdlife is suitable for water sports like canoeing and sailing and walking trails surround the lake. There are also mini train rides every Sunday.