From Lake to Concrete Lawn

The filling (of the lake) began after 1937, when the site for Chemistry moved slightly northwards so that the front of the proposed building would be in line with that of Geology and Anatomy. As a result, the front (north) part of Chemistry stands on part of the former lake area. Each of the buildings in this strip has a front (to Masson Road) and a back (to Monash Road), thereby creating another strong front and back configuration within the University site.

The filling of the lake and the siting of Chemistry on part of its reclaimed southern edge prompted the siting of the new Commerce School (PWD, 1938) on the reclaimed eastern side of the lake.