The Mildura Weir has been declared the best maintained and managed asset along the iconic River Murray. 

The 2023 JS Collings Trophy, a prestigious award recognising excellence in water management infrastructure, has been bestowed upon this historical structure by the Murray–Darling Basin Authority (MDBA).

Operating the weir amidst the most significant flooding in over half a century was no small feat, as noted by MDBA’s Executive Director of River Management, Andrew Reynolds. 

“Each year the MDBA considers the management of the locks and weirs and the major dams along the Murray system and selects one that embodies that excellence and pride in effectively maintaining this critical infrastructure,” he said. 

The Mildura Weir team, praised for their diligence, had the arduous task of removing and reinstating the weir's trestles multiple times throughout 2022 and 2023. 

“The team from Mildura weir really stood out, having removed and reinstated the trestles multiple times over 2022 and 2023,” Mr Reynolds said. 

These efforts were crucial in managing the floodwaters while ensuring the weir’s swift return to operation.

Built in 1927, Mildura Weir is the only trestle weir left in Australia, boasting 24 steel trestles, each weighing around 11 tonnes. This uniqueness adds to the significance of the maintenance feat accomplished.

Martina Cusack, GMW Water Storage Services general manager, echoed these sentiments. She expressed her pleasure at the recognition given to the Mildura team, acknowledging their hard work and innovation amidst challenging conditions.

The JS Collings Trophy, a symbol of operational excellence, will soon find its new home with the Mildura Weir team, comprising Julian Kelleher, John Mensforth, Josh Cruikshank, and Matt Gardner.

The Senator JS Collings trophy has been honouring excellence since 1943. 

Named after the former senator and president of the River Murray Commission from 1941–45, it recognises ‘the most effectively maintained’ asset in the River Murray system. This year's award to Mildura Weir is a testament to the unyielding dedication and skill of those who work behind the scenes to manage precious water resources.