Lake Moondarra

Lake Moondarra is an impressive artificial lake located on the Leichhardt River in Queensland, financed by private enterprise.

It has been supplying water to the city and Mount Isa Mines since its completion in 1958. The lake was considered the largest water scheme in Australia financed by private enterprise at the time.

The construction of the Leichhardt Dam began in 1956, with an expenditure of £1.7 million. The project was initially started by the American Utah Construction Company but completed by Thiess Brothers. In 1961, the dam was officially named Lake Moondarra after a local competition.

Lake Moondarra offers various activities for visitors, including picnic areas, water sports facilities, and a ski jump. It is also a popular spot for bird watching, sailing, and fishing. The lake is stocked with barramundi and sooty grunter, making it a favorite destination for anglers. The annual Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic attracts many visitors.

Transport Bay, a popular spot at the lake, was used by Mount Isa Mines to deposit sand on the shallow banks. It is a great place for families to relax and enjoy the scenic surroundings. Additionally, Lake Moondarra was an important stone axe quarrying site for Aboriginal people, with the stones traded across long distances.

In 1984, the proliferation of the Salvinia molesta weed in the lake was successfully contained through the release of a biological pest, a species of weevil. This method proved to be one of the most effective and ecologically sound ways of controlling the weed species in the lake.

Lake Moondarra is a stunning recreational and ecological space, perfect for leisure seekers and nature lovers. It offers a getaway spot to relax and create