Constructed in 2013, the Koondrook Perricoota inlet regulator is a reinforced concrete structure designed to deliver managed flows of water to the Koondrook Perricoota Forest. It is owned by the Murray—Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) and operated by WaterNSW.
The inlet regulator is located off the Murray River, south west of Deniliquin and 800m from Torrumbarry Weir. The structure has five aluminium tilting gates to provide environmental releases.
Regulator repair
The Koondrook-Perricoota inlet regulator has experienced ongoing structural issues since 2014, which have affected its ability to manage water flows safely and efficiently.
Recent inspections have identified an increased risk of a piping failure, and the regulator now needs to be taken offline to enable a coffer dam to be installed to protect the integrity of the Torrumbarry Weir pool.
To address the risk the MDBA have approved works to carry out interim management works to design and installation of a coffer dam upstream of the Koondrook-Perricoota inlet regulator.
This repair work will maintain the integrity of the inlet regulator structure and the weir pool and will continue to enable future environmental flows to the Koondrook-Perricoota Forest.
Environmental water impacts
While the inlet regulator is offline, environmental water flows to the Koondrook-Perricoota Forest via the inlet channel will be temporarily unavailable. This is necessary to allow the structure to be repaired safely.
Repairs
To allow safe access for repairs:
- access tracks will be upgraded
- a temporary coffer dam will be built upstream of the regulator
- this temporary structure will isolate the regulator and ensure the integrity of the Torrumbarry Weir pool
- once installed, the area will be dewatered (drained), enabling crews to safely repair the regulator.
Procurement and planning for the coffer dam are underway, with installation expected in early 2026.
Location
Safety
There is no immediate risk to the community or surrounding areas. These works are a precautionary measure to ensure the ongoing safety and function of the inlet regulator and the Torrumbarry weir pool.
Timing
Current project timelines remain on track, with construction of the coffer dam scheduled for completion by February 2026.
Preliminary activities are progressing well, including the drafting of required approvals and borrow pit material testing. The primary focus remains on the design and installation of the coffer dam. The program will continue to be monitored and where possible activities brought forward.
Although planning for the coffer dam is underway, the timeframe for completing the repairs is still being confirmed and will depend on available funding and approval from the Ministerial Council.
The MDBA and WaterNSW continue to work with Basin governments to prioritise maintenance and ensure water infrastructure remains safe and functional.
Contact
If you have any questions or would like further information, please contact engagement@waternsw.com.au or visit mdba.gov.au.
The MDBA also provide regular communication through River Murray weekly reports.
WaterNSW acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands and waters on which we work and pay our respects to all elders past, present and emerging. Learn more