Lake Cargelligo embankment dams

The project will stabilise and strengthen the integrity of the dam embankments and secure their functionality long into the future, by making important modifications to the engineering and materials of the structures.

The key objectives include:

• Reduce the risk of internal and external erosion of the embankment dams.
• Reduce the risk of overtopping associated with wave erosion of the embankment dams.

WaterNSW project teams are committed to engaging with the local community and keeping you informed as the project progresses. We will continue to work closely with stakeholders, government agencies and Aboriginal groups.

More information will be provided through project fact sheets, website updates and in local newspapers.

2021

• Complete design.

2022

• Award contract and commence environmental assessments.
• Emergency works, following flooding.

2023

• Early 2023 - Early work including investigation work, trial embankment and building site compound.
• May 2023 - Start first stage of upgrade to embankments.

2024

• Early 2024 - Complete prioritised activities on C2 and C3 to improve the safety of the embankment structures complete. This work included earthworks, stabilisation and drainage and pipe installation at priority areas.
• 2024 - Review design and methodology improvement options, aimed at reducing cost, making the construction process more efficient, and identifying alternate supply and material options.
• May 2024 - Lake increased to full capacity (100%) for the irrigation season, benefitting WaterNSW customers and the local community.
• Later 2024 - WaterNSW complete review process and advise on the next phase of construction work.

2025 (Phase two)

• May 2025 - Award Contract, commence Lake drawdown and site mobilisation
• July 2025 - Site mobilisation and commence construction

WaterNSW, the state’s bulk water supplier and system operator, is upgrading the three embankment dams of Lake Cargelligo to improve dam safety

Lake Cargelligo is an off-river storage system in the Lachlan Valley. The three embankments are standardised earth fill embankments that provide storage for irrigation, recreation, and domestic water supply.

The embankments were originally constructed in 1906. In 1927, all three dams were raised to a total final height of approximately 3.5m with a base width of 5m. Historic floods damaged the embankments, and a rainfall flooding event in 2016 further impacted the condition of the embankments. Temporary works were completed which proved successful in managing risk during the incident, however, these important upgrades will ensure the town of Lake Cargelligo continues to benefit from the long-term functionality of the embankment structures.

For construction related enquiries, please contact the WaterNSW Community Engagement team at engagement@waternsw.com.au.

For general enquiries on WaterNSW’s work, email customer.helpdesk@waternsw.com.au or call the WaterNSW Helpdesk on call 1300 662 077.