We’ve upgraded the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system and electrics at Lerderderg Weir, enabling us to remotely operate the three gates at this isolated spot. Works also included installing an eight-metre-high pole for improved network connectivity.
The weir’s location and steep terrain means it's more at risk from fires and flash flooding. Remote control of the gates will allow us to act quickly should the water level rise in the weir.
Lerderderg Weir is at the end of a narrow, winding dirt road in the Lerderderg State Park. The weir directs water from the Lerderderg River to top up Merrimu Reservoir. It allows a minimum of 30 megalitres down the Lerderderg River and when the inflow is higher, it diverts water through two tunnels to the reservoir.
Project Manager Kinga Fitzgerald said it was a team effort, involving staff from Capital Delivery, Capital Planning and Headworks West.
"The whole team worked well together, collaborating closely at different points of the project. It's a great outcome for this important asset." said Kinga.
More upgrades are on the way at Lerderderg Weir. In the next few months, we will be installing a new 45 kilo-volt-amperes generator and a solar system. Solar will power the site during the day, and the generator will be used at night.