Pykes Creek Pumpout

Pykes Creek Reservoir Pumpout

The Pykes Creek reservoir has been at a low level for the past few years and the level is below the lowest outlet. Recently the outflow has been through a syphon, but the level is becoming too low for that to be effective. Submersible pumps are needed to access the remaining water supply. We fabricated pontoons for the three Flygt pumps, which will pump 10 megalitres per day.
	The job included the installation of the pumps and piping in the reservoir. Access was difficult due to the low water level and difficult terrain. Excavators were used to transport the pumps and pontoons from the dam wall to the old boat ramp area, which allowed access to the water. From there the pumps were towed by a punt to the required position.
Layflat hose supported by floats connect the pumps via a manifold and 33 metres of 10" polypipe to the dam outfall. The bulkhead of the dam tower is 900mm diameter and we fabricated a special adaptor plate to enable the connection of the polypipe.
	The three pumps discharge into the base of the tower. At any time 2 pumps are operating and one is on standby in case of pump failure. The pumps will enable another 3 to 4 metres of water to be pumped out of the reservoir and will provide much needed water for the farmers of the local area.