Gordon Dam

Gordon Dam

Gordon Dam is a double-curvature arch dam situated on the Gordon River in Tasmania, Australia. It is mainly used for electricity generation, with a total installed capacity of 750,000 kilowatts. The dam stands 140 meters high at its crest, making it the tallest in Tasmania and the fifth tallest in Australia. Together with the Gordon Power Station, Lake Pedder, and Lake Gordon, their water storage capacities are usually considered as one integrated project.

Designed by Dr. Sergio Guidici, the chief engineer of Tasmania's Hydro Electric Commission (HEC), the Gordon Dam was constructed in a location with a narrow terrain and a hard quartzite bedrock that features strong folding. The dam abutments consist of chlorite schist quartzite layers, extending from the dam crest down to at least 91 meters below the riverbed. Upon completion, the dam impounds the Gordon River, forming two artificial lakes — Lake Gordon and Lake Pedder. Lake Gordon covers an area of 272 square kilometers and has a storage capacity of up to 11.316 billion cubic meters, reportedly making it the largest freshwater reservoir in Australia. The surrounding areas feature rolling mountains and dense forests, which are beautifully reflected in the serene waters of the reservoirs, creating another stunning tourist attraction in Tasmania.

Gordon Dam

Must-visit reason: The tallest dam in Tasmania

Continent: Oceania

Country/Region: Australia

State/Province: Tasmania