Eungella Dam spill event underway

Eungella Dam west of Mackay has commenced overflowing as a result of the rains that accompanied ex tropical cyclone Dylan.

The dam filled overnight and began overflowing on Sunday 2 February 2014.

Energy and Water Supply Minister Mark McArdle said SunWater had activated the Emergency Action Plan for Eungella Dam.

“Activation of the plan is standard procedure as soon as any SunWater dam fills and commences spilling.”

SunWater General Manager Bulk Water and Irrigation Services Tom Vanderbyl said the dam is now being operated in flood mode and residents immediately downstream, the local disaster management group and the police have all been notified.

Currently the water is 10cm over the spillway.

SunWater will continue to monitor inflows and manage the dam in line with its established operating guidelines.

“SunWater will remain in close contact with customers and residents living immediately downstream of Eungella Dam, and also the local disaster Management Group and Police,” Mr McArdle said.

“This is an opportune time to remind everyone to stay away from and not swim or play in or around overflowing dams, weirs and barrages.

“An overflowing dam or weir can easily become a dangerous and unpredictable place and members of the public need to be aware of the dangers and obey all warning signs.

“Fast flowing debris can cause injury or worse and increased water volume and pressure can force people underwater.

“It is also important for drivers to obey flooded road signage and remember that if it is flooded forget it,” Mr McArdle added.

Eungella Dam is designed to store water to full capacity then safely manage any further excess inflows by diverting them through its purpose built spillway.

Further information regarding SunWater dam, weir and barrage levels is available on the SunWater website (Water Storage Levels) at www.sunwater.com.au

[ENDS] 2 February 2014

Media Contact: Phil Hind 0437 334 183