Journal Article

The Lake Margaret Power Scheme located on Tasmania's rugged west coast commenced operations in November 1914. It is a rare example of an early 20th century hydroelectric scheme in Australia, and was the largest private generator in the state prior to the start of large-scale public generation in Tasmania with the commissioning of Waddamana in 1916. This paper examines the history and heritage significance of the Lake Margaret Power Scheme, together with a description of recent developments that will see a refurbished and restored scheme continue to operate well into the future. The history includes a description of major refurbishments, replacements and upgrades that have taken place through the life of the scheme. The paper is based on information drawn from early papers written about the scheme, information supplied by Hydro Tasmania and the personal knowledge of Peter Schulze who worked at Mt Lyell from 1961 to 1988.