Glenbawn Dam is a significant water infrastructure located on the Hunter River, approximately 14 kilometres east of Scone in the Upper Hunter Valley of New South Wales, Australia. Constructed between 1948 and 1958, the dam serves multiple purposes, including flood mitigation, hydro-electric power generation, irrigation, water supply, and conservation.
Engineering and Capacity
Glenbawn Dam is one of Australia's largest earth and rock-fill embankment dams, standing 100 metres high and extending 1,125 metres in length. It features a concrete chute spillway with fuse plugs, capable of discharging up to 11,115 cubic metres per second. The dam creates Lake Glenbawn, which has a total storage capacity of approximately 749,840 megalitres—about one and a half times the volume of Sydney Harbour.
Recreation and Natural Beauty
Lake Glenbawn is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as boating, water-skiing, jet-skiing, swimming, and fishing. The lake is renowned for its freshwater fishing, particularly for species like Australian bass and golden perch.
The surrounding area boasts diverse bushland and wildlife, making it ideal for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Over 100 species of birds have been recorded in the region.
Accommodation and Facilities
A range of powered and non-powered camping options are available on the shores of the lake along with cabins and bungalows run by Reflections Holiday Park - Lake Glenbawn.
Reflections Holiday Parks Lake Glenbawn offers a range of accommodation options, including cabins and powered or unpowered campsites. Facilities at the park include picnic areas, barbecues, playgrounds, tennis courts, a kiosk, and a boat ramp. The park is pet-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their dogs along for the adventure.
Location and Access
Glenbawn Dam is situated about 270 kilometres northwest of Sydney and is accessible via the New England Highway. The nearby town of Scone provides additional amenities, including shops, restaurants, and fuel stations.
Whether you're interested in water sports, fishing, camping, or simply enjoying the natural beauty, Glenbawn Dam and Lake Glenbawn offer a versatile and scenic destination for visitors.
Glenbawn Dam
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