Split-image comparison of the world’s largest Filterra bioretention system: the top half shows the newly installed system in May 2025 with freshly planted vegetation and bare mulch, while the bottom half shows the same system in March 2026, showing plant growth.
With a total filter area of 990m2, this Filterra® bioretention in Sydney is officially the biggest on the planet. The nature-based treatment system was installed between February and May 2025.
Whilst the Filterra® bioretention system is big, a traditional bioretention basin would have been about five (5) times bigger to achieve the given stormwater pollution removal targets, which would not have been possible in the highly constrained site.
To augment flow distribution, installation, maintenance, integration and performance, the Filterra® bioretention was ‘split’ into eleven (11) separate ‘cells’. Over 300 plants from nine different native species have been planted within the system, and will no doubt continue to thrive.
The site also features Ocean Protect’s Vortechs™ and Jellyfish® stormwater treatment assets to protect the downstream waterways and ocean from pollution.
If you would like to find out how Ocean Protect can help you better protect waterways and oceans from stormwater pollution, please get in touch with us via enquiries@oceanprotect.com.au.