Hindmarsh Shire Council Presents Feasibility Study for Jeparit Weir

Published on 10 April 2026

Hindmarsh Shire Council has released the findings of a detailed feasibility study into the future of the Jeparit Weir, confirming that the existing structure is in very poor condition and should be fully replaced to protect communities and reduce flood risks.

The study, funded by the Wimmera Catchment Management Authority, assessed the condition, safety, flood behaviour and long‑term options for the weir on the Wimmera River in Jeparit. It found that the weir has reached the end of its operational life and no longer meets modern safety or engineering standards.

Constructed in 1902, the Jeparit Weir has sustained significant damage during major flood events in 2011, 2016 and 2022. The study identified that the weir is currently unsafe to operate, with manual removal of boards posing unacceptable risks to Council staff.

The flood modelling developed during the study showed that if the weir cannot be safely operated during major flood events, flood levels in Jeparit are likely to increase, potentially resulting in additional properties being inundated above floor level.

After assessing a range of options, the feasibility study concluded that refurbishing or repairing the existing weir is not viable, and that full replacement is the most appropriate long‑term solution.

While replacement is estimated to cost approximately $5.4 million, the study highlights the significant value the Jeparit Weir provides to the community. The weir pool supports flood management, recreation, environmental outcomes and local liveability, with an estimated annual benefit of around $386,000 to the community.

Council continues to maintain the existing weir to ensure the weir pool remains available for recreational use for the community. This study will now be used to support future applications for State and Federal Government funding and to guide further design, approval and engagement processes if funding is successful.

Hindmarsh Shire Council Mayor Cr Ron Ismay said, “the feasibility study provides an important evidence base to protect the Jeparit community into the future.”

“Jeparit Weir is more than a piece of infrastructure - it plays a vital role in protecting the town from flooding, supporting recreation, and maintaining the liveability of Jeparit,” Mayor Ismay said.

“While Council cannot fund a replacement on its own, this work puts us in a strong position to continue advocating to State and Federal Governments for the funding needed to secure this critical asset for future generations.”

Council is committed to keeping the community informed as advocacy efforts continue and the project progresses.

For more information, please contact Ram Upadhyaya, Director Infrastructure Services, on (03) 5391 4444 or email rupadhyaya@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au.

Ram Upadhyaya
Acting Chief Executive Officer