Construction will start this month on a AUD 17.3 million upgrade to the Patawalonga Lake System’s South Gates at Glenelg.
The State Government investment is critical for the ongoing management of water movement within the lake, controlling water levels and, where possible, mitigating the risk of flooding to the surrounding area.
The upgrade will also ensure a quality marine environment for recreational activities, such as boating, fishing, kayaking and other water sports.
The project involves replacing all eight steel gates, lifting components and the electronic control system, which are at the end of their serviceable life.
The new stainless-steel gates will have a lifespan of up to 50 years without the need for major refurbishment.
To ensure ongoing functionality of the system, only two gates will be upgraded at a time.
Manager of Assets and Operations with the Department for Environment and Water Tom Campbell said it is important to upgrade the gates to modern day standards to ensure ongoing safe, effective, and reliable operation of the Patawalonga Lake System.
“The gates are opened twice a day on a rising tide, which allows fresh sea water to circulate northward through the lake. This keeps the lake healthy, with the total lake volume replaced with freshwater every 3-4 days,” Mr Campbell said.
“The upgrade will ensure the system remains healthy and can be enjoyed by the community well into the future, as well as help safeguard local infrastructure against the risk of flooding.”
The concrete barrage that is currently used by pedestrians and cyclists to cross the Patawalonga will be closed to the public for the duration of the project. A temporary walkway will be built on the western side of the barrage to allow safe pedestrian access.
There will be some closures of the boat lock and changes to the walkway access during construction. Where possible, these will occur outside of peak usage times and will be negotiated with the contractor to minimise disruption to the community.
McMahon Services Australia has won the contract to deliver the works, which are expected to be complete by mid-2025.
The Patawalonga Lake System, locally known as “the Pat”, is a critical piece of urban infrastructure in managing stormwater and floods.
Several creeks and drains flow into the Pat, including the Sturt River, Brown Hill Creek, Keswick Creek, Patawalonga Creek and the Airport drain.