Katarapko Floodplain Asset Restoration
- $1.9 million
- Department for Environment and Water
- Murray River National Park, Berri, SA Pike River Conservation Park, Paringa, SA
- Dams and water storages
- Construct only
Background
The Katarapko floodplain asset restoration project involved the recovery and reinstatement of critical infrastructure following a major flood event in 2022–2023.
Located in South Australia’s Riverland region between Berri and Loxton, the Katarapko floodplain is an anabranch system of the River Murray and a high priority ecological area supporting a diverse range of native flora and fauna. The works focused on restoring infrastructure that had been constructed to rehabilitate the floodplain and wetlands as part of the Murray–Darling Basin Plan.
Scope
Leed was engaged to reinstate flood-damaged infrastructure across the Katarapko and Pike River floodplains.
The works included:
Katarapko floodplain scope
- preparation of subgrade and import of select fill to rebuild 500m of blocking bank
- reinstatement of approximately 8.2km of wearing course along the blocking bank
- reinstatement to required levels with new pavement and rock armouring
- embankment reinstatement and erosion protection surrounding the Bank J regulator
- remediation of scour, erosion protection repairs and desilting downstream of the Carpark Lagoon Outlet regulator
- restoration of eroded road and pedestrian access surfaces
- backfilling around tree roots to protect stability
Pike floodplain scope
- rock re-armouring of 1,500m of blocking bank, including placement of 1,200 tonnes of rock
- reinstatement of approximately 6.6km of wearing course along the blocking bank
- reinstatement to required levels with new pavement and rock armouring
- repairs around two structures, including re-setting of guard railing
- reinstatement of approximately 6.6km of wearing course at Pike River
- repairs to structures including re-setting of guard railing
Approach and delivery
The works were delivered within a constrained program, with completion required ahead of a forecast high water inundation event in August 2025. To meet this timeframe, the project was delivered across multiple work fronts with increased crew resources and prioritised work zones.
Environmental considerations were incorporated into delivery, including the construction of turtle ramps to support safe fauna movement across rock protection areas.
Outcomes
The project successfully reinstated critical floodplain infrastructure to pre-flood condition, supporting the ongoing function and rehabilitation of the Katarapko and Pike River floodplain systems.
Leed completed on-ground works three weeks ahead of schedule, allowing for earlier inundation of the floodplain and reopening of the campground ahead of the anticipated program.
