29 September 2023
Have you see the 'Tasmania's Superpower' campaign? Watch a clip below and check out all the content by clicking here.
Tanya, Teresa and Ava, alongside some of our passionate Hydro Tasmania team, went on a jam-packed three-day adventure across Tasmania, to see some of our most famous assets. We’ve prepared an itinerary below for you to follow the road trip and get up close and personal with some of Tasmania’s coolest locations, yourself!
Our journey begins way down South. Quite literally at the end of the road.
The awe-inspiring Gordon Dam is a colossal structure, standing proudly amidst the rugged wilderness. At a staggering 140 meters, this dam is a true engineering marvel.
Gordon Dam in Tasmania's Southwest
We welcome visitors to walk down to the top of the dam wall, where you can look out over Lake Gordon, and feel for yourself how tall 140m really is!
Construction of Gordon dam was completed in 1974, alongside two other dams on Lake Pedder, and a suite of canals and tunnels which pool all the water together. This is then funnelled into the great Gordon Power Station, our largest capacity station in Tasmania.
Keen to learn more about the underground world of hydropower? Read more here.
Teresa, Ava and Tanya outside Pedder Wilderness Lodge, in front of Lake Pedder
After a trip out to the dam, head to the nearby Pedder Wilderness Lodge, and indulge yourself in some well-deserved R&R. Nestled on the shore of Lake Pedder, the lodge offers cosy accommodation, a restaurant and bar that will fuel you for the next leg of your journey!
On your way North, you’ll meet up with our Derwent scheme. A ‘scheme’ is a grouping of power stations, dams and lakes which are managed together, typically because the lakes and rivers between them are connected. Gordon / Pedder are an example of a single power station ‘scheme’, compared to the 11-station make-up of the Derwent scheme.
The same water that travels through those eleven power station then makes its way through New Norfolk, and into the Derwent River at Hobart! Talk about renewable!
Driving over Meadowbank Lake
Pass over Meadowbank Lake and hit the open road towards Waddamana Power Station, where you’ll step back in time and explore the history of hydropower in Tasmania. Waddamana was our first hydropower station, operating from 1914 for many years.
When it was decommissioned, the station was listed for heritage significance and opened for visitors. This site offers a fascinating insight into the evolution of hydroelectricity, with well-preserved equipment and informative displays on the beginnings of electricity in Tasmania.
The turbine hall at Waddamana Power Station
With the controls from the early 1900’s still intact, visiting Waddamana is like taking a step back in time. Visiting the station is free, and the surrounding grounds have BBQ and picnic facilities so you can enjoy a day out with the family!
The control room at Waddamana Power Station
As the day winds down, make your way to Tarraleah Estate, a charming village that was once home to hydro workers and has been transformed into a delightful visitor accommodation. The village, previously hosting residential services like schools, sports fields and post offices, is now a home away from home for nearby workers and visitors. Be sure to stop in at The Highlander Arms for a bite to eat!
Nestled in within the bounds of the Tarraleah Village is the Tarraleah Penstocks lookout. Offering breath taking views of the nearby landscape, looking down on Tarraleah Power Station. The penstocks are large pipes that deliver the water to the station at a very steep incline, travelling 270km/h.
Tarraleah Penstocks which feed water to Tarraleah Power Station
As you wrap up your adventure, you'll be left with memories of epic hydropower assets, Tasmania’s rich history, and the warmth of communities. Whether you're a history buff or simply seeking an adventure off-the-beaten-path, our ‘Superpower’ road trip promises a truly electrifying experience that you won't forget.
So, pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare to be amazed by the hidden wonders of our island paradise. Tasmania awaits, and it's ready to power up your next adventure!
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