Posted on October 14, 2024
Flow into Lake Bonney will soon be significantly improved, with dredging works at Chambers Creek to begin next week.
A levee across Chambers Creek at Nappers Bridge was installed during the 2022/23 River Murray flood. However, following the flood, the levee was not able to be fully removed, leaving levee material underneath the surface affecting the creek’s depth.
Berri Barmera Council Mayor Ella Winnall said restoring the waterway to its pre-flood state would benefit the community.
“Lake Bonney is so important to the whole Riverland, and especially to Barmera,” she said.
“Being able to finally get this work under way so Chambers Creek can flow more freely is one step closer to restoring the lake to its pre-flood conditions.
“We thank the State Government for listening to our community and it’s great to see these works now ready to happen.
“Having the last of the remaining levee cleared out will benefit both the environment and the recreational users of Lake Bonney.
“This is a great example of council and locals working together to find solutions for the betterment of the environment and community.”
The shallow water at Chambers Creek also caused navigation impediments for vessels in recent times.
Berri Barmera Council is completing the works on behalf of the State Government. The State Government will fully fund the excavation works, which are expected to take about two weeks. Chambers Creek is the sole inlet and outlet of Lake Bonney.
After advocating for the dredging to occur, Council is also providing project management support.
The work will be undertaken with River Murray and Mallee Aboriginal Corporation cultural monitors on site with respect to the native title considerations at the area.
