Pump House Archives - Destination's Journey

Goulburn Waterworks

Located at Marsden Weir on the Wollondilly River, Goulburn Waterworks is another great attraction to visit in Goulburn. One of four pump-houses built at the same time, the Goulburn Waterworks is the only one with its original pumps. Unfortunately, the other three were sold for scrap

Intending to simply walk around the beautiful building, a volunteer was there, who took us through the interior. Not only is the original pump still there, but it is fully functioning. Lovingly restored and maintained by a group of volunteers, the pump looks brand new.

Built in 1883, the Appleby beam pump moved water from the Wollondilly River to a holding tank where it was around Goulburn. This enabled the town to expand, because previously a consistent water supply was not available. In time, demand outstripped the pump’s capacity newer technology replaced it. Fortunately, it avoided scrapping and we can still see it today.

Located in another section of the building is a Hick Hargreaves horizontal engine. This type of engine was a successor to the beam engine as they are more efficient and able to produce significantly more power on a smaller design. Although not originally part of the waterworks, it was still interesting to see.

The electric pumps that replaced the beam engine remain on site, so we were able to see them as well. Located in a sump, enclosed and painted grey they do not have the elegance of the original.

This was a fun visit, especially as were did not expect to go inside and see the pumping machinery.

Pump House Goulburn Waterworks — Pump House

One of the Pump House's Furnaces Goulburn Water Works — One of the Pump House’s Furnaces

Appleby Beam Engine Goulburn Waterworks — Appleby Beam Engine

The Beam Engine's Governor — The Beam Engine’s Governor

Appleby Bros. Name Plate Goulburn Waterworks — Appleby Bros. Name Plate

Hick Hargreaves Horizontal Engine Goulburn Waterworks — Hick Hargreaves Horizontal Engine

Diesel Pumps Goulburn Waterworks — Electric Pumps

To see what else there is to do in New South Wales, please see some of our other stories.

Walka Water Works Maitland

Once the main water supply for the Lower Hunter Valley, the Walka Water Works at Maitland is now a public reserve. With free public access, it has barbecues, picnics areas, a playground, walking trails and a 7 1/4-inch gauge miniature railway that operates passenger rides each Sunday.

History of the Water Works

Newcastle and the Hunter Valley’s increasing population during the late 1800’s led to a requirement for a permanent water supply. The Walka site near Maitland was selected for the water works, with construction completed in 1887. Not only was drinking and washing water guaranteed, but it enabled sewerage to be installed, improving the health of the urban population.

As the population continued to grow, additional water sources were developed, such as Chichester Dam. As a result, Walka became a back-up supply from 1923 to 1940. In 1947 the station closed and the pumps and equipment sold for scrap.

Although re-commissioned as a power station in 1956 it finally closed in 1976.

A Public Reserve

Featuring an Italianate architecturally designed structure with an ornate brickwork the pumphouse is the centrepiece of the reserve. With the machinery sold for scrap the interior is empty, but you can admire the outside. We walked around the building and chimney stack before walking to the dam.

Near the dam, a small 7 1/4-inch miniature railway operates on Sundays, taking a small loop before returning to its station. It’s very popular with kids and the young at heart when running. Check to see it its operating before you go to avoid disappointment.

Several walking tracks weave around the dam, providing great opportunities to see some of the 300 species of birds that visit during the year. Still intact, the dam wall forms a large lake that is also home to turtles, some of which we saw sunning themselves on the rocks.

A great place for families to visit for a picnic or barbecue as well as learn about some of Maitland’s industrial past.