Lake Hawdon North Regulator and Fishway
- $6.4 million
- Department for Environment and Water
- Robe, SA
- Dams and Water Storage, Environmental Water Management
- Construct Only
Background
Lake Hawdon North is one of the largest wetland systems in the Limestone Coast region in south-eastern South Australia, spanning 2,475 hectares and providing habitat for endangered migratory and non-migratory shorebird species. The project aimed to improve the quality of wetland habitat and support ecological outcomes across the Coorong South and Limestone Coast regions.
A key feature of the works was the construction of a new regulator structure to control water flows, along with a fish bypass channel and associated exit structures to support safe fish movement around the asset.
Scope
Leed was engaged to deliver the construction of new water control infrastructure and associated environmental works.
The works included:
- FRP construction of a new environmental regulator
- construction of a rock-lined fish bypass channel with three exit structures
- installation of seven penstocks and two lay flat gates with associated telemetry
- associated metalwork
- 2,200m² of rock protection
- approximately 10,000m³ of earthworks
- 400 hectares of habitat restoration works
- 2,500m of drain de-silting and reshaping.
Environmental innovation
The project incorporated a number of practical and environmental innovations during delivery.
Live flows were maintained through the excavation of a temporary bypass channel, allowing existing flows to continue past the construction site unimpeded.
Natural subgrade was used as the foundation for the regulator once it was de-watered, avoiding the need to import fill, thus reducing environmental impact. Habitat restoration works also included an effective clearing technique using Leed’s own plant to remove invasive vegetation and support floodplain renewal.
Outcomes
The project has improved water management across the Lake Hawdon North wetland system, supporting ecological outcomes and habitat quality.
The works are expected to deliver an estimated 531% increase in wetland habitat and extend the duration of wetland inundation through summer and into autumn.
The fish bypass channel ensures continued fish passage and supports ecosystem connectivity, contributing to the long-term function of the wetland environment.
Accolades
The project received was recognised with industry awards for excellence and innovation in water infrastructure.
- IPWEA SA: Excellence in Environment and Sustainability Award, Winner 2025
- Australian Water Association SA Water Award: Infrastructure Project Innovation Award (Regional), Winner 2025
