Today marks 50 year’s since Tasmania first became a global leader in hydropower and dam construction.
Minister for Energy and Renewables, Nick Duigan, said on this day in 1974 the last bucket of concrete was poured at Gordon Dam making the completion of the nation’s largest concrete arch dam.
“Gordon Dam is a known feat of engineering and innovation which helped establish Tasmania as a global leader in renewable energy,” Minister Duigan said.
“It contains 154,000 cubic metres of concrete – that’s more than 21,300 cement trucks, and is more than double the height of Wrest Point Casino.”
The Gordon Power Station generates around 13 per cent of the state’s energy needs every year. Together, Lake Gordon and Lake Pedder make up the largest water storage in Australia.
“Our government is proud of our forefathers, who identified and constructed our enviable hydropower schemes,” Minister Duigan said.
“That pride extends to the Hydro Tasmania maintenance staff who ensure the Gordon Dam continues to safely play its part in delivering renewable energy 50 years later.
“It is an important asset that we will continue to be a critical part of our hydro network.
“It was fantastic to visit the dam and station earlier this year to witness the current campaign of work to secure its operation for another 50 years.
Minister Duigan said Tasmanians are immensely proud of our Hydro history.
“Chief engineer Dr Sergio Guidici designed the dam, and his grandson, Oliver now works at Hydro Tasmania,” Minister Duigan said.
“It’s fantastic to hear that four generations later, Tasmanians still love our hydropower system, and what Hydro Tasmania stands for.”
Our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future will return Hydro Tasmania to its founding principles to ensure it remains a Tasmanian powerhouse, driving our economic growth into the future.
