Lake Cargelligo lowering begins ahead of phase 2 embankment works

“The public boat ramp next to the Lake Cargelligo Boat Club will remain open, and the community will be able to continue to enjoy access onto Lake Cargelligo during the drawdown and once the lake capacity reaches 50%,” a WaterNSW spokesperson said.

WaterNSW will continue to supply stock and domestic replenishment flows from Lake Cargelligo. However, due to upcoming maintenance works, the lake will not be refilled.

Water levels will be gradually reduced to 50% and maintained at 50% until the end of September 2025, weather permitting to allow these works to commence.  Any excess flow above downstream demand will be captured in nearby Lake Brewster to minimise water loss.

“Reaching 50% capacity before major work starts is essential to meet our environmental requirements, reduce risks to construction and maintain safety of our workers,” the spokesperson said.

“When phase two of the embankment upgrade work is complete, it will ensure the long-term functionality of the structures to meet the current and future needs of the local community and our customers.”

Major construction on the embankment upgrade started in mid-2023 with the priority to improve the safety of the C2 and C3 embankment structures. This work included earthworks, stabilisation, drainage and pipe installation at priority areas.

Following a comprehensive review in 2024 of the designs and alternative supply options, phase two of the upgrade, which includes embankments B1, C2 and C3, is now on track to start in mid-July 2025.  Weather permitting, phase two is due to be completed by mid-February 2026.

“Phase two of the embankment project has been awarded to a Central West NSW local contractor, A1 Earthworx Mining & Civil,” the spokesperson said.

There will be some impacts to WaterNSW customers and all those affected have been notified.  “WaterNSW will continue to work closely with impacted customers and will keep the wider community informed as works progress,” the spokesperson said.

A community information drop-in session will be held in the coming weeks, offering local residents an opportunity to speak with the project team and learn more about the next phase of the project. Further details will be shared soon. To register your interest, please email engagement@waternsw.com.au