history To inaugurate the construction of Fairbairn Dam in 1968, three explosions were set off by the dam’s namesake and then National Development Minister, the Hon. David Fairbairn. The project employed more than 700 contractors, many from overseas, who were housed in a small township onsite. Construction was completed in 1972 and the storage it formed was named Lake Maraboon, meaning where the black ducks fly. Heavy rains filled the dam and overflowed the spillway two years later. The lake became the second largest in Queensland, with a holding capacity three times larger than Sydney Harbour.
Lake maraboon
The creation of the dam provided the region with a stable water supply and enabled the prosperous development of the surrounding agricultural, horticultural and mining industries. Impound
Nogoa River
Catchment Area
16,320km2
Main Embankment (dam wall) Height above stream bed
46m
Length
823m
Spillway Height above stream bed
31.7m
Width
167m
Reservoir* Storage Capacity
1,301,133ML
Surface Area
15,280ha
Length of Shoreline
274km
At full supply level
*
Cost Fairbairn Dam
$19.8m
Irrigation, drainage, roads and ancillary works
$20m
Maximum Water Level 31 December 2010
5.58m over spillway
Minimum Water Level 1 December 2020
8.1%
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lake maraboon map
Fishing borilla Inlet
maraboon bay‑see inset below
nogoa Inlet
norwood point
Gindie bay
Chapman Crossing
Start your freshwater fishing adventure at Lake Maraboon. It is the only water body in the Central Queensland area that was once actively stocked with Murray Cod, not to mention is currently stocked with Yellowbelly, Silver Perch and Barramundi, all primed to give unforgettable fishing experiences. A fishing permit (SIPS) is required and can be obtained from the Emerald Post Office or online.
red Claw
dead horse Inlet
Got a taste for Red Claw? Try putting out some opera house traps to catch the tasty crayfish. Every angler has their own theory when it comes to bait, but generally fruit, partially cooked vegetables or pet food are most popular. A permit is not required and there are no size or bag limits.
bullies bay
Stoney Creek bay daniels bay
boating
Low Water Level <20%
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Dam Wall
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Spillway
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Lookout
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ake Maraboon L Holiday Village
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araboon Power M Boat & Ski Club
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Camp Fairbairn Outdoor Education Centre
▲ To Emerald 22km
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nogoa river
With expansive waterways, inlets and open bays, boating enthusiasts have plenty of room to spread out and enjoy sports such as water skiing, wake boarding, tubing and jet skiing. If your boating preferences are a bit more leisurely, the lake is a wonderful place to explore by kayak, canoe or paddleboard. Boats and kayaks are available for hire.
o fishing or boating zone within N 400m downstream from dam wall
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ead horse In
2 1
recreation The lake provides a relaxing setting for picnics, with tables and electric barbecues available. It’s also the perfect place to watch the sun setting over the water.
3 To Eme rald 26 km To Sprin gsure 6 0km
▲ No fishing or boating zone 200m from dam wall
Three lookouts provide space for visitors to stop and enjoy views of the lake, spillway and surrounding area.
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dead horse Inlet
▶
A stroll along the lake’s edge is great way to see the extensive birdlife, sandstone escarpments and native bushland. Cool off in the designated swimming area.
accommodation
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6
Camping is not permitted around the lake, however camping and cabin facilities are available at the privately run accommodation provider nearby.