Gin Gin weir: WaterNSW holding information sessions on its plans

WaterNSW plans to replace the existing structure, which was built in the early 1900s, with a low-impact gated weir.

Concerns have been raised about their installation of the weir leading to the erosion of the Macquarie River bank, poorer water quality and a reduction in native fish.

But WaterNSW executive manager assets Ronan Magaharan said replacing the existing structure would benefit all water users.

"Some of the information circulating about this proposed replacement weir overlooks the fact that there is already a significant barrier in the river at Gin Gin, dating back to the earliest part of the previous century, which needs replacing," he said.

ALSO MAKING NEWS:

"It probably met the standards of the early 1900s, but it certainly does not meet the environmental or operational expectations of water infrastructure in the 21 century. Add to that the damage and structural decline which has occurred over time and this crumbling relic represents all the worst features of an in-river obstacle.

"In contrast the proposed replacement weir is a modern, gated structure with the ability to let fish migrate upstream and downstream in that stretch of river for the first time in over a century."

Mr Magaharan said the gates would allow small volumes of water to be held and then released to the river system, which would lead to less water evaporating due to the shorter journey it travels.

The virtual information sessions will be held on September 2 from 6 to 7pm and then September 3 from 12 to 1pm.

The sessions will be held via Facebook at facebook.com/groups/MRRRS.

Visit www.waternsw.com.au/mrrrs for more information on the Gin Gin weir project.

We depend on subscription revenue to support our journalism. If you are able, please subscribe here. If you are already a subscriber, thank you for your support.