You've Never Seen Gordon Dam, Tasmania Like This
Our visit to Gordon River Dam began with a damp 5 a.m. morning. Landscapes are often best viewed at sunrise and this time was no different. We camped the night nearby at Ted's Beach to see Gordon Dam for sunrise. We believe it's best viewed in the soft light of sunrise or sunset - pink skies, soft shadows, and the stillness of dawn and dusk. Not many people take the opportunity to see Gordon Dam, let alone during the best viewing times. So we've gone ahead and done that for you, outlining the best way to make that happen yourself.
The engineering marvel has a name that resonates with both locals and tourists alike and is located in the picturesque landscapes of Tasmania, this dam isn't just about holding back water. It's a testament to human ingenuity, a beacon of Tasmania's commitment to sustainable energy, and a hotspot for adrenaline junkies. But what makes it so special? We're excited to show you (hint: we went inside). But first, let's help you in your planning.
Hobart to Gordon River Road
One road in. One road out. Once you reach Westerway and take the B61 towards Mt Field National Park, you won't get lost. Just don't turn off the main road. Oh, and fill up before going! Your closest fuel station works best.
We believe the journey to the dam is as mesmerising as the destination and recommend driving during daylight hours. Almost every direction you look on Gordon River Road is picture-perfect. If you plan to visit the Dam for sunrise, travel the afternoon before. If you're visiting for sunset, well, just travel that day. If you don't mind what time you see Gordon Dam Wall, then travel whenever suits your itinerary!
We suggest not travelling at night as the wildlife in this area is more lively and populated. Your chances of seeing a wallaby (and therefore hitting one) are much higher. Limit driving to daylight hours if you can and plan accordingly.
Every adventure is worthy of a good feed. Below are our recommendations on how to sort this out, no matter how you decide to travel.
Maydena
Our journey to Gordon Dam found us stopping at Fika Time Cafe in Maydena. The coffee was good, food looked great, and cakes even better. We didn't need anything as we had just finished breakfast at Ted's Beach, but the meals others were eating looked great!
Check opening hours before travelling to see if this cafe will suit your needs.
Packed Lunch
As mentioned, we camped the night at Ted's beach, and therefore brought our own breakfast and lunch (for later). You really can't go wrong here. We had eggs and bacon on toast, cooking them using the electric stove top at Ted's Beach.
Prior to leaving, visit a local supermarket to pack your lunch. We stopped at New Norfolk Woolworths as it's on the way from Hobart. We didn't want to risk finding a supermarket later.
Fika Cafe in Maydena has a few supermarket items, but they're more expensive than your local supermarket. Choose whichever option you'd like!
Mt Field National Park
Here you'll find Waterfalls Cafe and Gallery. I've eaten here before and wasn't disappointed. It's a little closer to Hobart than Maydena and a great place to add to the trip. Russell and Horseshoe Falls are two favourites and only take half an hour or so to complete!
You don't have to spend the night in the area. This is more than worthy of a day trip from your accommodation in Hobart or even further out, such as Launceston. If you do wish to spend the night, here are three recommendations.
Ted's Beach
Camping or in a campervan? This is a great location to stop in at the night before, or the night after visiting Gordon Dam. You have a sheltered cooking area (which was also someone's accommodation when I arrived) and plenty of space to pitch a tent or pull up with your campervan. There are toilets available.
Pedder Wilderness Lodge
For those not wanting to spend the night outdoors in the wild weather of South-West Tasmania, Pedder Wilderness Lodge is a great alternative. Prices vary throughout the year. Book well in advance.
Edgar Dam Campground
This has been included to offer another camping alternative with views you won't find if you stay on the main road. Edgar Dam Campground is a 40-minute drive from the main road. There is access to the Mt Anne walking track along this road.
If you're planning to see Gordon Dam and do so as fast as possible, save your time and go to Ted's Beach. If you'd like to explore a little, and maybe even climb Mt Anne, then this is your spot.
What's so special about Gordon Dam? A number of things really. The history is included further down, but one activity we love (have never experienced ourselves, and may never experience as they’re not currently operating) is abseiling. This isn't for the faint of heart.
Watching someone abseil Gordon Dam 140m into the wilderness below
The Thrill of Descending the Dam Wall
For the thrill-seekers, the dam offered an experience that's hard to match. Abseiling down the dam wall! Imagine descending 140 metres with the vast expanse of wilderness beneath. The adrenaline rush is worth every second. And what's even better, is you get to travel back up in the 'elevator' (we don't know the real name of it). This in itself is an adrenaline-inducing experience.
Tours to Gordon Dam
You'll have to venture to this destination yourself. There are currently no tours offered here.
This was a special moment, our first visit to the Dam. One of my friends struck up a conversation with someone who we later found out was giving a private tour of the Dam. We were invited along and happily accepted. We lost track of time and spent what seemed like hours exploring the dam from different perspectives, seeing inside some of the tunnels, and learning more of the history of the location. Most of this we can't remember, but we do have some photos and videos that we'd love to share with you.
Early Beginnings
The story of the Gordon Dam, or the Gordon River Dam as it’s often called, started in 1963 and is as captivating as the structure itself. Nestled in the rugged terrains of South West Tasmania, this massive dam didn’t just materialise overnight. The inception of the idea can be traced back to the early 20th century when Tasmania was on a quest for sustainable energy solutions. The proximity to the vigorous Gordon River made the location an impeccable choice, promising a future where the Gordon River power development could thrive.
The Decision to Build
Fast forward to the mid-20th century, the Tasmanian State Parliament approved the Gordon River power development and allocated a substantial grant to bring this vision to life. The choice of Gordon River was not arbitrary. The river’s relentless flow, the conducive topography of the area in the South West, and the burgeoning energy demands of the region made it the prime candidate for the construction of the tallest dam in Tasmania.
Construction Challenges
The construction of Gordon Dam was fraught with challenges, from navigating the untamed landscapes of South-West Tasmania to grappling with the whims of the weather. However, with unwavering resilience and groundbreaking innovation, every obstacle was surmounted. Today, the dam doesn’t just stand as a colossal reservoir but also as a symbol of human determination and ingenuity, descending majestically into the ground, its arched wall holding back an astounding volume of water.
The Role of Hydro Tasmania
The Hydro-Electric Commission, now Hydro Tasmania, the leading energy provider of the state, was instrumental in the dam’s creation. Their invaluable expertise ensured that the dam was not only operational but also adhered to stringent environmental standards. The vision was clear – to create a dam that caters to the populace while harmoniously coexisting with nature. The result was a concrete arch dam that is not only the highest arch dam in Tasmania but also a beacon of sustainable power development, making Lake Gordon a reservoir of possibilities.
Arch Dam: What Makes It Unique?
The Gordon Dam, a prominent component of the Gordon River power development, is a concrete arch dam, a design that seamlessly marries aesthetics and functionality. This unique structure, with its arched wall, holds back a colossal volume of water, subsequently forming Lake Gordon. However, the standout feature of this dam is its double-curvature design. This intricate design is crucial as it evenly distributes the immense pressure exerted by the water, ensuring the dam’s stability and longevity in the rugged landscapes of South West Tasmania.
Importance of the 140 Metres Height
The Gordon Dam, soaring at an impressive 140 metres, holds the title of the tallest dam in Tasmania. This height is not merely a structural spectacle but serves a critical functional purpose. It allows for maximum water storage, efficiently catering to the energy needs of Tasmania. This ensures that the region has a consistent energy supply, mitigating the need for frequent spillage, and contributing significantly to the Gordon power station.
Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park
Adjacent to the towering Gordon River Dam, the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park is a sanctuary of natural beauty and biodiversity in South West Tasmania. This park is not just a haven for a myriad of flora and fauna but also a UNESCO World Heritage site, a testament to its global significance and commitment to conservation.
The park is situated near the dam in South-West Tasmania, offering a contrasting experience to the colossal concrete structure of the dam. It is a place where the raw beauty of nature is preserved, and the harmonious coexistence of various species is celebrated. The park is a crucial component of the Tasmania World Heritage Area, emphasising its role in global ecological balance and conservation efforts.
The Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park offers a plethora of experiences for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. From tranquil river cruises along the Gordon River, allowing visitors to absorb the serene beauty of the area, to challenging hikes through rugged terrains, the park provides a diverse range of activities catering to different preferences. The park is a gateway to exploring the rich biodiversity of the area in the South-West, where every trail and every river bend unfolds a new facet of nature’s marvels.
The construction of Gordon Dam and the design of the Crotty Dam in the West has been instrumental in the development of the region, but the preservation of the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park ensures that development does not come at the cost of ecological integrity. The park is a reminder of the delicate balance between progress and preservation, between harnessing natural resources and maintaining ecological harmony.
The park is not just about the lush greenery and the flowing rivers; it is about experiencing nature in its purest form. It is about traversing the Gordon River Road from Maydena into the Gordon River area and witnessing the majestic descent of the dam into the ground. It is about the opportunity to abseil the dam wall and make the highest basketball shot at Gordon Dam, combining the thrill of adventure with the tranquillity of nature.
The Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park is a symbol of nature’s resilience and diversity. It stands as a living museum of ecological richness, where every tree and every creature has a story to tell, a role to play in the grand tapestry of life. The park is a place where the whispers of the wind and the murmurs of the river narrate the tales of nature’s wonders, where every step leads to a journey of discovery and every moment is a celebration of life’s simplicity and beauty.
The World Heritage Area Distinction
The dam's location in a World Heritage area is no coincidence. It's a blend of human-made marvels and nature's best. The pristine forests, the roaring rivers, and the dam's colossal structure create a harmony that's music to the eyes.
The Gordon Dam isn't just a structure of concrete and steel. It's a story of vision, resilience, and innovation. From powering homes to offering adrenaline-pumping adventures, it's a marvel that stands tall, both literally and metaphorically.
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The Gordon Dam stands at a majestic height of 140 metres.
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Absolutely! For those seeking an adrenaline rush, abseiling down the dam is a popular activity.
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The power development boasts a capacity of 432-450 megawatts.
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Yes, the dam is nestled in the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Discover more for your Tasmanian adventure below!
Kelvedon Boast Shed is a famous boat shed on the East Coast of Tasmania. This is heritage listed and nearby Kelvedon Estate. Absolutely gorgeous.