Early enabling works for a major upgrade to Somerset Dam are set to commence, Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing and Minister for Water, Glenn Butcher, has announced. These works will include the replacement of eight sluice gates, civil works, and geotechnical investigations.
The project, funded by a $13 million allocation in Premier Steven Miles’ 2024-25 Queensland Budget, aims to bring Somerset Dam up to modern engineering and design standards to ensure long-term safety and water security.
Water Minister Glenn Butcher visited Somerset Dam to inspect the site where these initial works will begin. “This is an important and complex project to make sure Somerset Dam continues to withstand extreme flood events into the future and provide water security for years to come,” Butcher said. “Seqwater has already delivered 13 dam upgrades, and I am pleased to see works commencing on Somerset Dam soon as part of this important program of works in the region.”
The enabling works will involve the removal of the spillway gates, the replacement of eight sluice gates, and the installation of a drainage curtain. Procurement is underway to manufacture modern, hydraulically operated sluice gates, with tenders received and manufacturing expected to start in 2025, pending contract awards and project approvals.
Seqwater Interim CEO Will Harpham highlighted the need for these upgrades. “While dams in Queensland were built to very high, internationally accepted safety standards, Somerset Dam was built by 1959, and dam design and engineering standards have evolved significantly since then. Seqwater is pleased to be planning a range of early and enabling works to support future construction on the major dam upgrade planned at this site.”
The project is expected to support around 150 jobs throughout its duration. Seqwater will hold drop-in information sessions in July and August 2024 to inform the community about the planned works. Residents are encouraged to sign up for the project newsletter on the Seqwater website for updates.
A Detailed Business Case is being completed to assess the preferred option for upgrading Somerset Dam. “The works are required to be completed irrespective of the final design option for the Somerset Dam Improvement Project, which is currently being considered as part of the Detailed Business Case stage,” Harpham added. “Subject to project approvals, the majority of the early and enabling works are expected to commence on-site in 2025, and Seqwater will continue to keep the community informed.”
