Cressbrook Dam

Solar-powered wireless groundwater monitoring strengthening dam safety and compliance for Queensland communities under the 2020 Dam Safety Guideline.

The Cressbrook Dam Project

Cressbrook Dam, an essential component of flood control infrastructure in Queensland, serves to protect local communities from extreme weather impacts and provides a water supply for nearby areas. Originally constructed in 1983, the dam is undergoing significant upgrades to meet the Queensland Dam Safety Management Guideline 2020. Key improvements include raising the dam crest height and widening the spillway to enhance flood immunity.

The Situation

Given Cressbrook Dam’s remote location and challenging environmental conditions, including high temperatures, heavy rainfall, and dust, developing a reliable, low-maintenance groundwater monitoring system was imperative. The lack of readily available power infrastructure further increased the complexity of the project, requiring the implementation of a sustainable energy solution. Additionally, the project demanded efficient data transmission and automated alert mechanisms to support long-term safety monitoring and decision-making.

What We’ve Delivered

Sixense deployed an advanced, solar-powered wireless datalogging system integrated with the Beyond Monitoring platform. This solution includes VW piezometers and wireless dataloggers, which provide continuous, real-time groundwater data. The system is equipped with a solar-powered gateway, allowing for autonomous operation in the absence of conventional power sources. Furthermore, the Beyond Monitoring platform consolidates instrument data into an accessible, cloud-based system, delivering hourly updates, remote access, and automated alert capabilities.

The new monitoring system strengthens dam safety management, allowing for proactive responses to potential flood events. By using wireless technology and remote data access, Sixense has significantly improved the safety and reliability of this essential infrastructure. This monitoring system meets modern safety standards and ensures ongoing protection for Queensland communities.