Construction is ready to commence this month on a $24 million upgrade to the Ewen Maddock Dam in Queensland, with Sunshine Coast-based contractor Buderim’s Hall Contracting awarded the contract to deliver the works.
The upgrade is expected to take up to 18 months to complete and will support up to 70 local jobs. This project will keep the dam in line with modern engineering design standards as well as help improve its existing beach and swimming area.
“This project is part of an ongoing dam improvement program that ensures all of our dams perform safely well into the future.
“This is a great outcome with a local contractor being awarded the work for the first stage,” Natural Resources Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said.
The first stage of works will begin by the end of March and will include raising and strengthening the existing embankment walls together with upgrades to the recreation area.
To allow works to get underway, the dam’s water level will have to be lowered to approximately 60 per cent of its full capacity.
In addition, the swimming and beach area, and Maddock Park will have to be closed during the 18-month construction period.
“We understand that Ewen Maddock Dam is a very popular recreation destination and apologise for any inconvenience to the local community.
“Seqwater has staged construction to reduce the amount of time water levels have to be lowered and to minimise the closure of the lake,” Seqwater Chief Executive Officer Neil Brennan said.
Mr Brennan added that the walking and mountain bike trails will remain open at the Ornamental Wetlands area - located at the opposite side of the lake, off Steve Irwin Way.
The recreation area will open once the first stage of works are completed.
Stage 2 of the project will include strengthening the existing spillway and will be subject to a separate tender process from the first stage. Works on the second stage is expected to be finalised by the end of this year.
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Source: Queensland Government; Seqwater (1, 2)