Water restrictions, desal warning for Melbourne after blaze near dam – Melbourne Melburnians could be drinking water from Victoria’s desalination plant – or even be put on water restrictions – if a fire on the banks of a major water catchment east of the city is not quickly brought under control, the Water Minister has warned. Lightning sparked a bushfire about a week ago in thick forest in the Baw Baw National Park, about three hours’ drive east of Melbourne. (LINK). HIWI042019-02-01T10:49:24+01:00