CONSTRUCTION to widen and extend the existing spillway and raise the wave wall of the Clarrie Hall Dam, Tweed’s main water supply located west of Murwillumbah, is progressing to schedule and is expected to be completed in mid-2014.
“I’m thrilled with the way the spillway upgrade project is progressing, despite the challenges faced by the crew on site,” Tweed Shire Council’s water manager Anthony Burnham said.
“Principal contractor Entracon Civil moved onto site in April 2013. One of the first tasks was constructing a temporary steel wall across the spillway to contain and manage spillway flows from the dam and keep the crew safe during construction.
“The temporary spillway was put to the test just two weeks after its completion, when extreme weather in the Tweed meant water needed to be released from the spillway. This meant stopping construction and removing all machinery. The construction site was submerged by several metres of flowing water, before eventually receding and allowing works to recommence.
“The terrain alone adds significant complexities to the project. The steep spillway, for example, requires a network of scaffolding to safely carry out the works.
“A large 85-tonne crane with a 56-metre boom has been set up on top of the existing Clarrie Hall Dam wall. The crane was bought in to overcome the issue of limited access and helps when moving building material and machinery into and around the construction site with its long reach.”
Until construction is complete, residents are reminded that Clarrie Hall Dam Road is closed to the public. Those wanting to visit Clarrie Hall Dam should do so at Crams Farm Reserve, off Doon Doon Road.
Clarrie Hall Dam can pass floods many times greater than the largest flood on record. However, the NSW Dam Safety Committee requires all dams around the state to meet new safety standards. This project is essential in ensuring the dam continues to meet safety requirements and protect the safety of public and property in the unlikely event of extreme flood.
The budget for this project is $7.3 million, of which $1.2 million is being contributed by the NSW Government.
