SunWater commences flood repairs at Callide Dam

[Member]

SunWater commences flood repairs at Callide Dam
 
16 Oct 2013

SunWater has commenced repairs at Callide Dam as part of a program of work to rectify damage sustained during a flood event in early 2013.

Tom Vanderbyl, General Manager Bulk Water and Irrigation Systems, said two gates at Callide Dam were damaged during record flooding caused by ex-Tropical Cyclone Oswald.

"At the peak of the event, all six gates were opened, passing an estimated 173,000 megalitres of water per day," he said.

"After the peak event, two of the dam’s six gates were damaged and onsite repairs are currently underway to rectify the damage before the wet season."

Mr Vanderbyl said there will be intermittent water releases for up 30 minutes at designated times of the day, while testing is undertaken.

"We anticipate that testing will commence on Tuesday, 29 October and take three days to complete, subject to the progress of the repair program," he said.

"Crossings on Calvale Road, Linkes Road and Jambin-Dakenba Road will be closed during this time.

"Minor flooding is expected to occur downstream of the dam, however, SunWater has well established communication protocols with our customers and residents living downstream of the dam and we have notified the Council, Police, Local Disaster Management Group and Dam Safety Regulator about these water releases.

"The safety of our customers, staff and local residents remains our first priority as the works are carried out and we urge residents and visitors to the area to be aware of swollen creeks and crossing closures."

SunWater will provide progress updates to customers and key stakeholders throughout the repair program.