Join Seqwater for a behind-the-scenes look at Ewen Maddock Dam and Water Treatment Plant! 

Nestled near Landsborough on the Sunshine Coast, Ewen Maddock Dam has been quietly serving the community since it was built in two stages — first in 1976, then again in 1983 — across Addlington Creek, a tributary of the Mooloolah River.

On 19 November 1976, Ewen Maddock Dam was the official water supply for Caloundra, with the opening led by then Deputy Premier of Queensland, William Knox.

Today, Ewen Maddock Dam plays a role in South East Queensland’s drinking water supply. When it’s full, it can hold a massive 16,587 million litres of water—that’s enough to fill over 6,600 Olympic swimming pools!

It’s an un-gated dam, which means when it reaches full capacity, water gently flows over the spillway and out of the dam naturally. It’s also located right next to the Ewen Maddock Water Treatment Plant, making it a vital part of the region’s water infrastructure.

The dam wall itself stretches 660 metres — that’s about the same as lining up 41 of the iconic Big Pineapples end-to-end. The dam’s catchment area spans 21 square kilometres, collecting rainwater from the surrounding landscape.

Seqwater is the one of the few bulk water providers in Australia that manages open catchments, which means locals and visitors can enjoy recreational activities on the very lakes and dams that help supply our drinking water.

Maddock Park, just off Mooloolah Connection Road, is a great spot to relax or get active — whether you’re firing up the free BBQs for a picnic, taking a dip in the designated swimming area, exploring the multi-use trails on foot, bike or horseback, or watching the kids enjoy the playground, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Ewen Maddock Dam and Water Treatment Plant will be open for guided tours on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 October. 

Tour 1 – 9.30am – 10.30am 
Tour 2 – 11.00am – 12.00pm 
Tour 3 – 1.00pm – 2.00pm 
Tour 4 – 2.30pm – 3.30pm 

Dress Requirements: 
Guests will visit an operational dam site, so safety is a priority. All guests are required to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and bring:

A wide brim hat
Sun-safe clothing (long sleeved shirts and long trousers mandatory)
Enclosed flat shoes
Sunglasses (optional). 

Mobility: To ensure everyone’s safety and comfort during the visit, please note that this is a guided walking tour of an operational site. All participants must have a reasonable level of fitness and mobility, as the tour involves flights of stairs and walking approximately two kilometres over uneven ground.

Minimum Age: The minimum age for visitors on the tour is eight years old. Participants under eighteen years old must have adult supervision.