Celebrating the Lake Leake Dam Safety Upgrade: Securing Water Supply for Future Generations

Tasmanian Irrigation has announced the completion of the Lake Leake Dam Safety Upgrade, securing the future of one of Tasmania’s historic water assets. With this upgrade, the dam, initially constructed in 1883, has been fortified to serve the needs of the region for the next century.

Lake Leake Dam, originally built for £12,370, was among Australia’s largest man-made dams of its time. For 140 years, it has supported communities and agricultural activities across the eastern Midlands. The recent upgrades have bolstered the dam's structural integrity, ensuring a dependable water supply for nearby towns and critical irrigation resources for local farmlands.

Jacob Gerke, Tasmanian Irrigation’s General Manager of Project Development and Delivery, emphasized the importance of the project:

"The upgrade ensures a reliable supply of town water for Campbell Town and Ross and irrigation water for the Elizabeth Macquarie Irrigation Trust, vital to the region’s agricultural productivity," he said.

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In addition to providing town and irrigation water, Lake Leake Dam has become a popular spot for recreational activities such as fishing and tourism. Its environmental role is also significant, supporting ecosystems within the reservoir and downstream.

The upgrade process included enhancements to the spillway and outlet works, stabilization of the dam’s wing wall, and the installation of advanced monitoring and safety systems, including telemetry, power systems, and CCTV. These improvements bring the dam in line with contemporary safety standards. The project team also applied innovative design solutions, such as using shotcrete for spillway upgrades, allowing for comprehensive repairs within budget.

This safety upgrade was made possible by $3 million in joint funding from the Tasmanian and Australian Governments, demonstrating a commitment to supporting vital water infrastructure. Fulton Hogan and GHD played key roles in the successful completion of the project, while the Elizabeth Macquarie Irrigation Trust provided essential collaboration.

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Gerke praised the long-term value of the project, stating,

"By extending the life of this iconic dam, we are safeguarding not only the water needs of today but ensuring that future generations will continue to benefit."

The Lake Leake Dam Safety Upgrade represents a major milestone in ensuring sustainable water management and regional resilience. It highlights Tasmanian Irrigation’s commitment to supporting the infrastructure that enables local communities, farmers, and industries to thrive.