Goulburn Weir & Adjoining Works

From Engineering Heritage Australia


The Goulburn Weir was originally built under the auspices of the Victorian Government between 1887 and 1891 along with a part of related irrigation works that were subsequently completed and then augmented in succeeding decades. The weir and its related works were deemed a national work at the time of their inception and constituted the first large scale irrigation works to be undertaken in Australia at the time.

The weir structure was further stabilised, and the majority of its former vertical water control gates replaced with modern radial type gates in the 1980s. This refurbishment took particular care to retain the heritage character and appearance of the original structure, including reconstructing and making operational two of the original vertical gates. The refurbished weir is in a sound conditions and continues to fulfill its original purpose.

The Goulburn Weir diverts an average of 1,768 Gl a year to irrigate land in the north and north-west parts of Victoria, the latter now extending as far west as the township of Boort.

Downstream face of main section of refurbished weir showing toe plinth and radial gates
Weir during construction 1889
Source: SLV Pictures collection FL189205032
Marked-up Google Earth image showing the weir location and offtake channels
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Engineering Heritage Recognition Program

Marker Type Engineering Heritage National Marker (EHNM)
Award Date June 2021
Heritage Significance Goulburn Weir, constructed between 1887 and 1891, is significant as the first such major structure built for land irrigation and stock water supply in Australia. At the time of its construction, it was deemed to be a ‘national work’.
Nomination Document Nomination document available here.
Photographs and Illustrations available here.
Ceremony Booklet
Ceremony Report
Not Available.
Plaque/Interpretation Panel
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