New concept plan released for Clermont’s Theresa Creek Dam

A beloved Central Queensland dam could get a $7.1m makeover with the release of a bold new concept plan mapping out its future. There’s even an option for a helipad to take visitors up into the skies.

Clermont’s Theresa Creek Dam is already a popular spot for families and tourists, but a new concept plan mapping out its potential future could elevate it as one of Central Queensland’s star recreational zones with options for a flying fox, eco cabins, more RV and camping space and even a helipad for scenic tours.

The plan, developed by Stafford Strategy for Isaac Regional Council, envisions an initial $7.1m spend to upgrade the site’s existing infrastructure and introduce new assets to the 300 hectare spot.

Alongside the flying fox, eco cabins and option for a helipad, the plan recommends a range of improvements including new waterfront deck seating, a widened and lengthened boat ramp, an expanded “beach cove” that serves as the kid-friendly swimming area, a replacement play area for children aged 3-15, a renovated kitchen for the on-site kiosk, a new pontoon for the beach cove, more powered and unpowered RV sites, more carparking and new pathways around the dam lake for walkers and cyclists.

Theresa Creek Dam is a popular site in Clermont but its infrastructure is aged and in need of upgrades. Picture: Contributed

The plan also envisions a new user-pays laundromat, upgraded toilets and showers, expanding the kiosk’s operating hours to ensure it is open seven days a week in peak tourist season and improvements to digital connectivity by introducing a stronger Wi-Fi connection.

The dam is bordered by large residential cattle properties and the plan raises the possibility of creating a riparian boundary around the lake to improve water quality, though the option of fencing off the lake from surrounding private land is not seen as viable.

“This is because of long standing arrangements between neighbouring land holders and TCD and the lack of formalised boundaries over many years,” the plan states.

The proposed additions and upgrades to Theresa Creek Dam in the concept development plan. Picture: Contributed

“Regardless, a mechanism needs to be found to protect the quality of water in TCD as it is a major water supply to Isaac Shire Council residents for drinking water.

“Livestock effluent needs to be reduced going into TCD.”

The $7.1m spend would not cover options such as the helipad, but instead cover core upgrades such as new walkways, the flying fox and the new car and boat trailer parking areas.

The proposed zones for the new Theresa Creek Dam released with the concept plan. Picture: Contributed.

The plan also states a public survey of residents showed “the vast majority” supported more funding for the dam.

“The few who responded no typically want investment in other Council assets,” the plan states.

Constructed in 1983, Theresa Creek Dam welcomes thousands of visitors each year, both day-trippers and overnight stayers.

In 2021, 16,743 people made overnight bookings for the site, generating $251,000 in revenue.

The plan has now been released to the public for further comment.