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The Thomson Dam Debate
Constructed over 16 years from 1969, the Thomson Dam in Gippsland is the largest earth and rockfill dam in the southern hemisphere. The debate looked at whose interests should take precedence in allocating its water:
- THE CITY: Safeguarding Melbourne's future population growth? As a hydrologist, John Langford undertook the strategic planning for the Thomson Dam in the 1970s. He argued that if the Thomson was made to serve ˜special interest" groups, there will be nothing left for the citizens of Melbourne, he argues. Professor Langford is Director of the Melbourne University Water Research Centre;
- THE FARMERS: Lifting supply to ensure their financial viability? John O'Brien said water allocations to irrigators in central Gippsland have been cut by 10 per cent and the future of their farms is at stake if security of supply from the Thomson is not restored. John is a farmer and the Chair of Victorian Farmers Federation Water Resources Committee; or
- THE ENVIRONMENT: Restoring environmental flows to save the Gippsland Lakes? The dam is destroying the health of the heritage-rated Thomson River and the Gippsland Lakes, claimed Paul Sinclair. Dr Sinclair is the Director of the Healthy Rivers Campaign for Environment Victoria.
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