Hydro Tasmania recently gave families a behind-the-scenes look at the historic Trevallyn Dam which is located on the South Esk river just ten minutes from Launceston.
Media release – Hydro Tasmania, November 2025
Hydro Tasmania opened its doors to the public on Saturday 1 November, giving hundreds of Tasmanians the chance to go behind the scenes at the iconic Trevallyn Dam in Launceston for the first time.
A capacity crowd took part in exclusive tours inside the dam wall and enjoyed a range of family-friendly activities, including educational games, live music, a barbecue and face painting.
Hydro Tasmania’s Executive General Manager of People & Corporate Affairs Ruth Groom said the event was a fantastic opportunity to share a piece of Tasmania’s history with the community.
“We’re so proud to open the gates and give Tasmanians a rare glimpse inside one of our state’s most iconic dams for the first time,” said Groom.
“It’s a special moment to connect with the community and share the incredible work our people do every day to keep the lights on across the State.”
“Our dams are part of the fabric of Tasmania – they’re not just infrastructure, they tell a story of innovation, passion and pride,” Groom said.
“It’s fantastic to see so many families and locals coming through today, learning about how our hydropower system works and celebrating what makes it unique.”
Attendee Sarah Turner said
“It’s so special to be able to show the kids an asset that’s rarely open to the public. It’s not something you get to experience every day, and it’s a great way for them to see firsthand how Tasmania’s renewable energy infrastructure works and powers our state.”
The open day was part of Hydro Tasmania’s ongoing commitment to connect with the communities it serves, giving Tasmanians a first-hand look at the State’s renewable energy story.
“Tasmania leads the nation in renewable energy, and days like today remind us just how far we’ve come,” Groom said.
“Our hydro system has been powering homes and communities for generations and will continue to play a vital role in a clean energy future.”
“We’re proud of our history, and we’re equally excited about the future of hydropower in Tasmania.”
Families enjoying the activities at the Trevallyn Open Day
Trevallyn Dam facts
Trevallyn Dam is an important part of the South Esk Catchment.
It was completed in 1954.
The dam is 33 metres tall and 176 metres wide.
Lake Trevallyn can hold up to 8.5 million cubic metres of water.
Trevallyn Dam diverts water through a 3.2-kilometre tunnel to the Trevallyn Power Station.
At the power station, the water runs through four turbines.
Trevallyn Power Station’s output is 94MW.
The elver ladder at Trevallyn Dam helps hundreds of thousands of juvenile eels migrate upstream each year.
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