Addressing water security and flood management challenges

Wyangala Dam Wall Raising

Wyangala Dam was one of three dams identified in rural New South Wales as critical needs state infrastructure to provide an augmented dam. The goal was to make sure it was adequate for safe passage of a probable maximum flood (PMF) and create contingencies for possible adverse events like climate change.

Initially, there were several issues our team needed to address to meet delivery times. This included complex geotechnical conditions (like stability challenges), the assessment of upstream and downstream impacts, and performing worst case scenario modelling. We also implemented water protection measures to avoid uninterrupted operations to water delivery during construction, dam safety and condition of existing assets, balancing costs, approvals processes and community and stakeholder engagement issues. Our team has also been involved in a range of geotechnical, hydrological, and environmental investigations that were carried out as part of the business case process.

Upon completion, this project—which will increase the storage capacity of the dam by 53%—will improve productivity for primary industries in the area. It will also provide greater water reliability to support local business, especially agriculture, and secure the region’s water supply for years to come.