Essential maintenance works at the Mildura weir will start in the week beginning 20 June, when the river level in the weir pool will be gradually lowered and Lock 11 closed for three weeks, the Murray-Darling Basin Authority and Goulburn-Murray Water announced today.
MDBA Executive Director Dr Andrew Kremor said this was an important opportunity to get back on schedule after the works planned for winter 2021 had to be postponed due to COVID-19.
"It is critical that river infrastructure is kept in the best possible condition to protect workers and visitors and to support the communities and industries that depend upon the reliable operation of the river," Dr Kremor said.
"We understand the river is always in demand to meet a variety of needs so there is never a perfect time to conduct works. The Murray River is vital to the region's economy and recreation, and it is crucial to complete the works before the irrigation season begins.
"We have scheduled the works for mid-winter following consultation with tourism operators, irrigators, the Mildura Rural City Council and the Wentworth Shire Council."
Goulburn-Murray Water's General Manager Water Storage Services, Martina Cusack said the works would take three weeks to complete, including six days to lower the weir pool and six days to refill it.
"We will be replacing three of the trestles that control the flow of water through the weir. The last time new trestles were installed at the Mildura weir was in 2016," Mrs Cusack said.
"This year we expect the river levels upstream of the weir to drop by approximately 3.5 metres, exposing some of the riverbank which is usually submerged.
"River craft will be able to access Lock 11 until 4.30pm on 20 June 2022. After this time, access by foot to the Lock Island recreation area will also be closed for the duration of the works."
Boat operators, river pumpers and other river users are encouraged to take into account the lowering of the weir pool and the lock closure when planning their activities.
Water quality measurements will be taken during the drawdown, so any salinity impacts in the weir pool or downstream can be carefully assessed.
The Mildura Weir and Lock 11 are operated and maintained by Goulburn-Murray Water on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin Authority.
