Dumaresq Dam Reserve
Dumaresq Dam was built between 1896 and 1898 and was Armidale’s water supply until the 1968, when Malpas Dam was completed. It is now set aside as a recreation reserve.
A 2.5 km walking track passes through eucalypt woodland on its way completely around the dam. Both the woodland and the dam offer excellent opportunities for bird watching. For anglers, the dam is stocked with trout, and occasionally bass.
Facilities and access:
- Picnicking, BBQ;
- Walking track, viewing facilities, and a jetty;
- Boat ramp for canoes and kayaks, but petrol boats are not allowed;
- Toilets and rainwater onsite;
- Camping - 3 x caravan sites; 6 designated campsites.
Camping is free, and 'first in best dressed' - for up to a maximum of 72 hours.
Please note: Dumaresq Dam Reserve is home to 27 endangered species, including 2 critically endangered species. No dogs allowed.
Malpas Dam
Malpas Dam is located to the south east of Guyra and to the north of Armidale. It was built as the major water supply for the city of Armidale. Its construction was completed in 1968 and currently has a storage capacity of 13,000 megalitres with expansion capabilities to 26,000megalitres.
It is the home of the New England Sailing Club and many competition meetings (as well as the local meetings) are held on the dam throughout the year. Picnicking and viewing facilities are available but there is strictly no camping.