Dams and Weirs

One of the least concerning looking hazards is actually one of the most lethal dangers that you are likely to encounter on the Lachlan. Unlike most of the weirs in populated centres, one would assume that the weirs are usually unmarked, especially in the more remote sections. In the right conditions some weirs can be hard to see from a distance, stay alert.

The dangers posed by a weir is very dependent on the flow. With no flow it is just a hassle to portage over it. With very high flows it may be fully submerged and may not even create a ripple. However, with the right flow many of the weirs can create a perfect hydraulic across the structure that even the most experienced paddler may not be able to escape.

There is only one way to safely navigate a flowing weir, to portage around it. The current can be deceptively strong near the weir, so stay close to the river bank and exit well before the weir. Below the weir wall there will likely be a strong upstream current going back towards the weir as the eddy flow is recirculating back. Finish your portage below well below these currents.

Key Weirs along the Lachlan River

All weirs have been pieced together from misc sources. Many have not been confirmed as I either paddled in high flow or haven't been to any of these areas yet.

• Dam or Reservoir
• Weir or Low Head Dams