Investigations by SA Water confirmed our existing infrastructure below Lock 1 on the River Murray would have difficulty operating as the river level fell due to ongoing, unprecedented drought.

The pumping stations at Mannum, Swan Reach, Murray Bridge and Tailem Bend would all require modifications to allow them to operate at lower levels. These are detailed below.

Mannum
This upgrade involves the construction of a temporary low lift pump station on the bank of the River Murray adjacent the existing intake structure. Four pumps have been installed.

Murray Bridge
The solution for Murray Bridge is to upgrade the current pump infrastructure by improving its suction capabilities to allow operation down to -1.5m.

Swan Reach
This project involves the installation of a temporary low lift pump station.

Tailem Bend
The Tailem Bend upgrade involves the installation of a temporary low lift pump station.

Investigations have also been undertaken at other inlets below Lock 1 including Swan Reach, Cowirra-Neeta, Wall Flat, Pompoota, Mypolonga, Jervois and Clayton.

See more information on the River Murray.
See more information on our pipelines from the River Murray.