News
27 March, 2025
$500M upgrade begins
THREE contractors have been appointed by Seqwater to commence delivering early and enabling works on Somerset Dam in 2025, as part of a major upgrade set for the site.
Around $500 million in early and enabling works are expected to begin this year at Somerset Dam as part of the first stage of Seqwater’s Somerset Dam Improvement Project. Seqwater Executive General Manager of Infrastructure Planning and Capital Delivery, Sarah Dixon, stated that the project is essential to ensuring the longevity of one of the region’s oldest and largest water storages.
"Somerset Dam plays a vital role in the SEQ Water Grid and supports Seqwater in providing water for life to more than 3.8 million people across the region," Ms. Dixon explained. "While Somerset Dam continues to operate safely, the Dam Improvement Project will ensure the dam meets modern engineering and design standards, providing ongoing safety and water security for years to come."
The initial works will include removing the spillway (radial) gates, replacing eight sluice gates nearing the end of their service life, and conducting civil works. Additionally, an interim drainage curtain will be installed to prepare the dam for future major works.
Seqwater has awarded the contract to AVK Australia to manufacture 26 purpose-built, hydraulically operated gates, including the new sluice gates. AECOM will design a temporary cofferdam to facilitate safe work, and GHD will begin designing an interim drainage curtain, which will involve drilling boreholes deep into the dam’s foundation to relieve pressure and enhance stability.
The project is expected to support 150 jobs throughout the duration of the works, and Seqwater encourages local contractors and suppliers in the region to register for future partnership opportunities via their website.
A Detailed Business Case is currently underway to assess the best option for upgrading Somerset Dam. The early and enabling works are necessary regardless of the final design option chosen as part of this process.
Seqwater thanked the community for their continued support. For more information, residents are encouraged to visit the Seqwater website.
