Googong Dam, Embankment dam near Queanbeyan, Australia
Googong Dam is an embankment dam in New South Wales with a wall made of earth and stone, reinforced by a clay core that runs across the Queanbeyan River. The structure holds back water to create a large reservoir that serves the surrounding region.
Construction began in the 1970s and the dam finished operation in 1979, following legislation passed in 1974 that opened the way for the project. This timeline reflected the region's growing need for a reliable water source to support future growth.
The reservoir is popular with anglers who visit regularly, shaping how locals use the waterfront throughout the year. This fishing tradition has become an important part of how people in the region spend their leisure time.
The site is best visited during dry and warm weather when you can fully enjoy the outdoor setting and fishing opportunities. Good access points and paths around the dam make it easy to move around and explore the area at your own pace.
The dam includes a concrete spillway channel that can release enormous volumes of water during flood events, acting as a crucial safety feature during heavy rainfall. This engineering solution prevents the dam from ever overflowing no matter how severe the weather becomes.
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