Back to search results » Back to search page »

Chaffey Mildura Pumping Scheme

Location

BILLABONG VIC 3501 - Property No B5125

File Number

B5125

Level

State

Statement of Significance

The vision of Alfred Deakin and the leglislation which he introduced enabled the development of the Mildura settlement and other major irrigation schemes on the Murray and Murrumbidgee River systems.
The work of George Chaffey enabled the establishment of a large population and extensive industry in an arid area. The products of Sunraysia over the years, have contributed to the Austrlian export income, as well as supplying local markets.
The pumping plant in the Pysche Bend Pump house used a triple-expansion steam engine which was still the latest technology of the time. The pumps were the biggest in the world. The fact that four pumps were directly coupled to the crankshaft and engine was an inovation of world significance.
The creative thinking of George Chaffey was important and the application of mathematics, engineering science and the latest technology by Chaffey and other engineers of the period enabled such notable achievement to proceed.
Classified: 28/04/1986
Revised: 22/02/1988
See also B3577 Pump Houses, Psyche Bend, Nicholas Point & Loch Nine, B1643 Cannie Ridge Irrigation Pumps, B1390 Rio Vista & Billabong Primary School.

Group