Cotter Dam

Cotter Dam is a water supply structure spanning the river of the same name, combining a concrete gravity structure with a rockfill embankment. The reservoir behind it stores water for the region's population.

Construction began in 1912 alongside Canberra's founding and finished in 1915. It was designed as essential water infrastructure for the new capital from the start.

The name honors Garrett Cotter, an early settler who made his home in this region. The site shapes the local landscape and serves as a defining landmark for the area.

The area around the dam is accessible to visitors, though weather conditions can affect your experience. Visit on clear days to see the structure and surrounding landscape at their best.

A 2013 expansion created a 7-kilometer fish habitat to protect the rare Macquarie Perch species. This same project produced Australia's largest roller-compacted concrete dam structure.

Location: Australian Capital Territory

Inception: 1912

Elevation above the sea: 506 m

GPS coordinates: -35.31955,148.93853

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:41