Ep 11. Snowy River

Super Structures of the World season 1 episode 11, titled Snowy River showcases the construction and functioning of the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme located in New South Wales, Australia. The Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme is one of the largest engineering marvels in the world and is spread over an area of 5,124 square kilometers. It consists of sixteen major dams and seven power stations that produce electricity from the water that flows through the mountains.

The episode begins by showcasing the beautiful surroundings of the Snowy Mountains and the pristine snow-covered landscape. The hosts then introduce the viewers to the Snowy River and the history behind the construction of the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme. The construction of the scheme started in the late 1940s and continued through the 1950s, 1960s and early 1970s. It involved the work of over 100,000 people from over 30 different countries.

The hosts take the viewers through the different structures within the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme, starting with the major dams. They explain the importance of each dam and how it contributes to the overall functioning of the scheme. They also demonstrate the intricate construction methods involved in building these dams, which had to withstand extreme weather conditions.

The hosts then take the viewers through the power stations. The Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme uses the natural flow and gravitational forces of water to generate electricity. The water is transported through a series of tunnels and pipes to the power stations where it is converted into electricity. The hosts explain how the turbines and generators work and the amount of power generated by each station.

The hosts then showcase how the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme has contributed to the development of the region. The scheme has not only provided electricity to the region but has also helped in irrigation, flood control, and water supply. It has also been a major contributor to the Australian economy, providing employment opportunities and attracting tourists from around the world.

The episode also highlights some of the challenges that the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme faced during its construction. The scheme involved the construction of tunnels and underground power stations, which were not only difficult to construct but also involved several high-risk activities. The episode showcases some of the situations where the workers risked their lives to construct these structures.

The episode ends by highlighting the future plans for the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme. The hosts explain how the scheme is being upgraded and modernized to produce more electricity and meet the growing demand. They also discuss the impact of climate change on the scheme and how the government is working to ensure its sustainability in the years to come.

Overall, Super Structures of the World season 1 episode 11, Snowy River, is an informative and captivating episode that showcases the engineering marvel of the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme. The hosts provide an in-depth look at the different structures involved in the scheme, the challenges faced during its construction and its contribution to the region. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in engineering, construction, and sustainable development.