Cressbrook Dam closed to water-based recreation

Published on 30 April 2026

***Update - Friday May 8, 2026*** - Testing has confirmed Cressbrook Dam is now able to open to all water-based recreational activities. 

All water-based recreational activities at Cressbrook Dam have been suspended until further notice.

Toowoomba Regional Council portfolio spokesperson for Strategic Water Planning, Deputy Mayor Cr Rebecca Vonhoff, said routine monitoring had detected elevated levels of Enterococci bacteria.

“As a precaution, Council has temporarily closed the dam to all water-based recreation,” Cr Vonhoff said.

“Regular testing will continue so we can determine when it is safe to reopen the dam for these activities.”

Cr Vonhoff said the current bacterial levels exceed primary and secondary contact recreation guidelines but emphasised that drinking water remains safe.

“The bacteria pose no risk to the drinking supply, as they are removed through treatment and disinfection processes.

“Council conducts weekly monitoring across all three dams, testing for algae and a range of microbiological indicators including E. coli. We also assess chemical parameters such as iron, manganese, alkalinity, nitrate, hardness, ammonia, colour, turbidity and phosphate,” she said.

The Lake Cressbrook campground and day‑use area remain open to the public, but all water-based activities are prohibited during the closure.

For up‑to‑date information on permitted activities at Toowoomba Regional Council’s dams, visit: https://www.tr.qld.gov.au/Places-and-activities/Sport-and-recreation/Lakes-dams-and-camping/Open-or-closed-status-and-allowed-activities-on-lakes-and-dams