Hume Dam, Murray River
The design of Hume Dam, which was the major work authorised by the River Murray Waters Act (1915), was directed by engineers E M de Burgh (NSW) and J S Dethridge (Vic).
Lake Hume supplies water for extensive irrigated agriculture, towns and power generation, whilst mitigating floods in the Murray Valley. When commissioned in 1936 it was one of the largest dams in the world.
The doubling of Its storage capacity in 1961 to 3 million megalitres included post-tensioning of the gravity structure, relocation of Tallangatta township and the raising of Bethanga Bridge, and involved a large number of post-war migrants.
Substantial works between 1994 and 2003 brought the dam to contemporary design standards.
In its basic design and subsequent upgrading, Hume Dam provides evidence of the development of dam technology in Australia.
National Engineering Landmark plaques were awarded to Hume and Dartmouth Dams in a ceremony at Hume in 2005.
Engineering Heritage Recognition Program
| Marker Type | Engineering Heritage National Marker (EHNM) |
| Award Date | 22 April 2005 |
| Engineering Significance | In its basic design and subsequent upgrading, Hume provides evidence of the development of dam technology in Australia. |
| Nomination Document | Available here. |
| Ceremony Booklet Ceremony Report |
Not available. |
| Plaque/Interpretation Panel | Not available. |
