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Lab Notes: The surprising history of the backyard sprinkler
Wednesday, 25 February, 2026

Backyard sprinklers have transformed the Aussie urban landscape. But their path to domination of our suburbs was haphazard — and hinged on the inventions of several knockabout tinkerers. Meanwhile with a rapidly drying climate, we may need to re-consider our reliance on this invention.You can binge more episodes of the Lab Notes podcast with science editor and presenter Jonathan Webb on the ABC Listen app (Australia). You'll find episodes on animal behaviour, human health, space exploration and so much more.Get in touch with us: labnotes@abc.net.auFeaturing: James Purtill, technology reporter Extra information:How the garden sprinkler conquered AustraliaThis episode of Lab Notes was produced on the lands of the Gadigal and Menang Noongar people.