Ben Anderson Barrage interim repairs completed

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Ben Anderson Barrage interim repairs completed
06 Nov 2013 - Sunwater


SunWater has announced the completion of interim repairs to Ben Anderson Barrage to rectify damage sustained during record flooding caused by ex-Tropical Cyclone Oswald.

SunWater’s General Manager, Bulk Water and Irrigation Systems, Tom Vanderbyl said SunWater completed repairs last week after underwater inspections of the barrage confirmed the concrete capping sustained scour damage during a flood event in early 2013.

“Earlier this year, an inspection of the barrage identified potential damage to the upstream protection works,” he said.

“In September, we lowered the water level of the barrage to further assess the extent of the damage so repairs could be planned and progressed.”

Mr Vanderbyl said while the damage did not present an immediate safety hazard, SunWater prioritised interim repairs to ensure the barrage is in sound working order for the wet season.

“The repair program included interim work to fill scour holes on the upstream capping of the barrage and rectification works to the shutters with permanent repairs to follow in the dry season,” he said.

Mr Vanderbyl thanked the local community for their patience and cooperation throughout the repair program.

Ben Anderson Barrage forms part of the Bundaberg Water Supply Scheme, storing and supplying up to 30,300 megalitres of raw water to downstream communities for irrigation and domestic use, including supplying parts of Bundaberg.

Upstream of Ben Anderson Barrage, SunWater is continuing water releases from Paradise Dam to lower the dam storage level to seven metres below full supply to reduce the probability of river flows interrupting additional interim repair works at the dam.

Mr Vanderbyl said minor flooding is expected to occur during these releases, however, SunWater has well established communication protocols with residents immediately downstream of the dam, the Local Disaster Management Group and Dam Safety Regulator.

"The safety of our customers, staff and local residents remains our first priority and we urge residents and visitors to the area to be aware of swollen creeks and crossing closures," he said.