Avon, New South Wales facts for kids
Avon is a small place, or "locality," located in New South Wales, Australia. It's found within both the City of Wollongong and Wingecarribee Shire areas. Imagine it as a quiet spot on the western side of the Illawarra Range, about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) west of Wongawilli. It's also about 5 kilometers (3 miles) northwest of Avondale.
Even though it's a specific location, the 2021 census showed that Avon had no permanent residents. This means it's mostly a natural area or contains important infrastructure rather than homes.
What Makes Avon Special?
Avon is known for some important historical sites, especially two large dams that are vital for water supply in the region. These sites are protected because they are part of Australia's heritage.
Avon Dam: A Water Wonder
One of the most important places in Avon is the Avon Dam. This huge dam is located on Avon Dam Road. It was built a long time ago to help supply water to the growing city of Sydney.
- Building the Dam: Construction on the Avon Dam started in 1921 and was finished in 1927. It was a massive project for its time, showing amazing engineering skills.
- How it Works: The dam collects water from the Avon River, which is part of the Nepean River system. This water is then stored in a large reservoir, ready to be sent to homes and businesses.
- Why it's Important: The Avon Dam is a key part of the water supply system for Sydney and the surrounding areas. It helps make sure people have clean drinking water every day.
Nepean Dam: Another Important Water Source
Also located on Avon Dam Road, near the Avon Dam, is the Nepean Dam. This is another significant heritage-listed site that plays a big role in the region's water supply.
- History of Nepean Dam: The Nepean Dam was built even earlier than the Avon Dam, with construction starting in 1924 and finishing in 1935. It was also a huge engineering feat.
- Water Collection: Like the Avon Dam, the Nepean Dam collects water from the Nepean River. It creates a large reservoir that holds a lot of water.
- Serving the Community: Together, the Nepean Dam and Avon Dam are crucial for providing water to many people. They are examples of how we manage natural resources to support large populations.
