Of Chance, Dams and Moriarty

Of Chance, Dams and Moriarty

From Urban Ambling by Mercator

July 24, 2025 · 23 min · Episode 15

About this episode

The episode explores the historical significance of the first arch dam built in Australia and the surrounding bushland.

A passing mention of an engineer, Moriarty, on an historical plaque by the Moruya River, leads to some enquiries. These, oddly enough, result in learning that the sandstone circular dam that created Lake Parramatta, is of some distinction. It was the first arch dam built in Australia and was the 12th engineered dam built in the world since Roman times! The bonus was finding a delightful spot to amble through bushland whilst going around the lake.

Topics covered

  • engineering
  • history
  • dams
  • bushland
  • exploration

Keywords

  • Moriarty
  • Moruya River
  • Lake Parramatta
  • arch dam
  • bushland
  • history
  • engineering

Mentioned in this episode

Places: Moruya River, Lake Parramatta, Australia

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