Chaffey Dam, Embankment dam near Tamworth, Australia.
Chaffey Dam is an embankment structure spanning the Peel River, built with a clay core surrounded by rockfill material. The reservoir created behind it serves as a major water storage facility for the surrounding region.
Construction started in 1976 and was completed in 1979 to address growing water needs for farming and city supply in the region. The completion marked a major shift in how water was managed across the area.
The dam takes its name from Frank Chaffey and his son Bill, who served as parliamentary representatives for the Tamworth district.
Access to the water is available at several points around the reservoir, with designated swimming and boating areas clearly marked. Bowling Alley Point Recreation Reserve nearby provides facilities and parking for visitors wanting to spend time on the water.
The spillway is a concrete morning glory bell 25.81 metres across at the rim, tapering to 7.72 metres, with a 35.1-metre tower; it can discharge 903 cubic metres per second. Visitors see the funnel from the bridge deck on the dam wall.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 93,469 contributors worldwide.