Torrumbarry Weir’s Lock 26 remains closed following a thorough investigation and assessment of necessary repairs.
After its unexpected failure in February, Lock 26 was emptied of water to allow for inspection of its valves. These measures were necessary to identify the repair works required.
“We are currently finalising the scope and planning for the repair works,” Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) Executive Manager of Water Storage Martina Cusack said.
“It will be necessary to fabricate replacement materials as the most efficient means of making repairs.”
Allowing for this work, and the safe re-commissioning of the lock, is expected to take a number of months.
“A more accurate determination of the duration of the closure will be able to be made following procurement of the necessary materials,” Ms Cusack said.
The closure of the lock does not affect the normal operation of Torrumbarry Weir in terms of river flow and water supply. Recreational water users are unable to use the lock to travel up or downstream until repairs are completed.
Ms Cusack said local vessel operators have been advised and all stakeholders will be informed once the expected timeframe for repairs is known.
Torrumbarry Weir and Lock 26 are located on the Murray River, about 40km north-west of Echuca or 80km downriver of the port of Echuca.
GMW is the State Constructing Authority responsible for managing and maintaining Torrumbarry Weir under the direction of the Murray Darling Basin Authority.
The original weir was constructed between 1921 and 1923 by the State Rivers and Water Supply Commission for the River Murray Commission.
“We are committed to ensuring our repair works allow for the reliable operation of the lock well into the future,” Ms Cusack said.
If any vessel operators or visitors to the area would like more information on the lock closure, please phone GMW on 1800 013 357.