Second Town Dam

Statement of Significance

The site is significant due to its association with the development of the town of
Woodanilling.

Physical Description

The dam is situated in a gully on the north of the town that flows from the east from the
town water reserve now being used as a golf course. The dam is built on the northern
edge of Burt Road before the gully joins the Boyerine Creek.

On the eastern edge are the paddocks and yards where the Roads Board horses were kept.
Troughs and yards are still evident. On the west bank was situated a tank stand and
windmill, remnants of which still remain. The original windmill with a 25 foot tower and
8 foot head was erected in December 1930.

Along the gully to the east is an area of revegetation done in the 1992 which provides a
corridor of trees from Boyerine Creek to the Golf Course.

History

Water for the town of Woodanilling was obtained from soak near the site of the railway
station, west of the line. In 1912 a well was dug in the vicinity and with the supply still
inadequate a dam was constructed near the Boyerine Creek. As demand grew these sites
proved unsatisfactory (the first dam was near the creek and quickly became salt) and the
new dam was built north of the town.

On Christmas Eve 1924, an unfortunate incident happened at the dam. Patrick Rivington,
a 30 year old ex-service Irish immigrant, who was working on clearing contracts in the
area apparently celebrated to excess during the evening. After leaving the hotel he
walked out down the main street and was not seen alive again. Despite searches for his
body was not found until 6 days later, floating on the government dam. The inquest
revealed that he had died of shock, not drowning and although a case was brought against
the publican for supplying liquor, it was dismissed.
One local settler who regularly drew his water supply from the dam was Oliver Ward.

Integrity/Authenticity

Original Materials: Most
Modifications: few

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.