Whispering Wall - SA

The 'Whispering Wall' is actually the retaining wall of the Barossa Reservoir, in South Australia. It dams the Yettie Creek gorge in the northern Mount Lofty Ranges to form the Barossa Reservoir. The reservoir has a capacity of 4,515 megalitres and supplies water to Gawler and other northern country areas.

The dam wall was built between 1899 and 1903 and was a revolutionary engineering feat for its day, attracting attention worldwide. It took over 400 men to complete it, is 144 metres long and at 36 metres high was the highest in Australia at that time. The 28 metre deep concrete arch design which curves against the water pressure was a radical innovation.

It is this design that generates the notable parabola effect, where a voice can be clearly heard from one side to the other – giving dam the 'Whispering Wall' title. The curve enables the sound waves to bounce along the entire length of the wall without losing clarity.

Aside from its acoustic interest, the Whispering Wall offers great views of the reservoir and the surrounding natural beauty. The area abounds in thick scrub, tall red gums, and pines, and a flourishing bird and animal life. It is a popular destination for picnics, bird-watching, fishing, and bush-walking.

Guides and displays at the dam tell the history of the dams construction. Visitors can also check out the Water Works Museum which houses a collection of heritage water supply items.