Paradise Dam project operational level (Section 399B)

Update 1 November 2023 – Paradise Dam irrigation valve work complete

Works to install new irrigation valves at Paradise Dam have been completed.

The project operational level (in place since 31 March 2023) has been removed and the storage capacity has returned to the interim full supply level/volume (top of the spillway)..

Sunwater continues to operate Paradise Dam at a ‘reduced full supply level’ following the Essential Works and in accordance with Section 399B of the Water Supply (Safety and Reliability) Act 2008.

Updates will be provided to Sunwater customers and the community when storage level management is next required for the Paradise Dam Improvement Project.

31 March 2023

Paradise Dam’s storage level needs to be lowered to allow for safe and efficient work on the dam, both for the dam improvement project, and for the outlet works.

Sunwater can operate Paradise Dam at a ‘reduced full supply level’ in accordance with Section 399B of the Water Supply (Safety and Reliability) Act 2008.

While a Section 399B notice refers to this as a ‘reduced full supply level’, for clear delineation between the storage level required for each project work package and the interim full supply level/volume (the top of the spillway), Sunwater will refer to the changing levels as ‘project operational levels’ in communication.

These project operational levels will not change Paradise Dam’s Emergency Action Plan levels or triggers.

The Paradise Dam storage levels page will be updated when Sunwater is required to change the project operational level for a Paradise Dam Improvement Project work package.

Sunwater will provide an update through its community app and Facebook if required releases as part of storage level management will inundate Booyal Crossing.

Background

When the dam’s spillway was lowered to improve its stability and the safety of downstream communities as part of essential works in September 2019, the dam’s capacity became 42 per cent of the original full supply capacity.

In the event of extreme weather conditions, it is important that 100 per cent capacity represents when the water level reaches the top of the dam wall (the spillway) and is about to spill.

This is necessary to provide clarity for operational and safety matters, and to ensure the community has access to accurate and consistent information.

When the spillway was lowered, the new spillway height was therefore referred to as 100 per cent, or the interim full supply capacity/volume.