Millicent Swimming Lake Reconstruction

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two people sitting on a bench looking over a man made lake with swimmers

After the 2022/23 summer it was discovered that excessive amounts of water had been used to maintain the levels of Millicent Swimming Lake and on investigation it was determined that the 50-year-old lake floor had been compromised in multiple locations.

The condition of the lake floor could not be fully assessed until the lake was drained and dry after winter.

Aquatic engineering advice has recommended that the best long-term solution would be to remove the existing bitumen seal, reshape the limestone base and concrete the entire floor. This work can only be done during dry weather.

Upgrades to the filtration system and improved disability access are also being designed to enable all to enjoy the renewed facility and this infrastructure upgrade will transform this important asset, extending its life for many decades to come.

Although it is unfortunate that the 2023/24 swim season will be impacted at the Lake, the full extent of this impact is still being assessed. Any opportunity to open the lake for a shortened period will be considered by the Council.

Key points:

  • The Millicent Swimming Lake is over 50 years old.
  • The Naracoorte Swimming Lake is similar in design and age and went through the exact same process several years ago.
  • The deteriorated lake floor is currently made up of a bitumen seal over a limestone base - just like a sealed road.
  • Just like a road, this bitumen seal needs to be periodically reapplied.
  • Just like filling potholes, we have been undertaking routine maintenance on the lake every year.
  • After 50 years, the limestone base has failed and needs to be fully reconstructed.
  • A concrete liner is a superior long-term solution to bitumen, as it will prolong its life and reduce future maintenance costs and disruptions.
  • We also want to make use of this 1 in 50-year opportunity and replace the underground filtration pipes to improve water quality.
  • This work can only be done when the lake is completely dry.

After the 2022/23 summer it was discovered that excessive amounts of water had been used to maintain the levels of Millicent Swimming Lake and on investigation it was determined that the 50-year-old lake floor had been compromised in multiple locations.

The condition of the lake floor could not be fully assessed until the lake was drained and dry after winter.

Aquatic engineering advice has recommended that the best long-term solution would be to remove the existing bitumen seal, reshape the limestone base and concrete the entire floor. This work can only be done during dry weather.

Upgrades to the filtration system and improved disability access are also being designed to enable all to enjoy the renewed facility and this infrastructure upgrade will transform this important asset, extending its life for many decades to come.

Although it is unfortunate that the 2023/24 swim season will be impacted at the Lake, the full extent of this impact is still being assessed. Any opportunity to open the lake for a shortened period will be considered by the Council.

Key points:

  • The Millicent Swimming Lake is over 50 years old.
  • The Naracoorte Swimming Lake is similar in design and age and went through the exact same process several years ago.
  • The deteriorated lake floor is currently made up of a bitumen seal over a limestone base - just like a sealed road.
  • Just like a road, this bitumen seal needs to be periodically reapplied.
  • Just like filling potholes, we have been undertaking routine maintenance on the lake every year.
  • After 50 years, the limestone base has failed and needs to be fully reconstructed.
  • A concrete liner is a superior long-term solution to bitumen, as it will prolong its life and reduce future maintenance costs and disruptions.
  • We also want to make use of this 1 in 50-year opportunity and replace the underground filtration pipes to improve water quality.
  • This work can only be done when the lake is completely dry.
  • Lake to open for Summer school holidays

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    The Millicent Swimming Lake will now open for a shortened period over the 2023/24 swim season following a decision made at the November Council meeting.

    Prior to consideration of a report presented by staff, Elected Members heard a deputation from Millicent resident Tamara Cockrum and her son Chad, who pleaded the importance of the facility to the wider community. A letter from the Millicent Business Community Association reinforcing its economic benefits, was also tabled as correspondence. Community sentiment had also been heard by the members through online consultation and a stall held at the Millicent Show.

    Following deliberation, including consideration of the estimated costs associated with preparing the asset for limited season opening ($100K), it was resolved that Council would open the Millicent Swimming Lake to the public between the 16 December 2023 and 29 January 2024.

  • Visit the Millicent Show Indoor Trade Hall to chat with Council

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    Don’t forget, if you are heading to the Millicent Show this weekend (November 3 & 4) you can pop in and chat with us about the Millicent Swimming Lake Reconstruction Project.
    You will find your Elected Members in the indoor trade hall, ready to answer any questions you might have.
  • Geotechnical investigations commence at Lake

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    13 bore holes and 4 test pits were dug at the Millicent Swimming Lake earlier this week as the aquatic engineers conducted geotechnical investigations to assist with the design of the planned reconstruction.
    Council staff assisted as the engineers gathered soil samples and measured the existing footings. This data is needed to help define the extent of the work required.
Page last updated: 19 Nov 2023, 11:38 PM