The NCA brings word that, following on from their abject failure to extend the hours of the Captain Cook Memorial Jet for Canberra Day, the jet will now be out of action until 1 June.
- The recent high turbidity in Lake Burley Griffin has put pressure on the mechanical systems that run the jet and lead to unexpected faults.
Repairs include reconstructing the actuator and replacing the pressure control valve. The jet will also be assessed for future maintenance issues.
NCA Acting Chief Executive, Gary Rake said the engineering behind the Captain Cook Memorial Jet is complex and takes time to repair.
‘As there are not many fountains of this kind in the world, mechanical parts are not readily available. It’s not a matter of simply ringing your local plumber to order in the part,’ he said.
The Captain Cook Memorial Jet has an ongoing maintenance strategy.
The pressure control valve was scheduled for repair in May, after close consultation with the Lake User Group on a suitable date. The part was commissioned over two years ago.
The unexpected breakage of the actuator has extended the timeframe for repairs.
‘We appreciate that this iconic landmark is one of Canberra’s favourite tourist attractions. We are doing everything we can to limit the time the jet is out of operation and will complete the repairs as quickly as possible,’ said Mr Rake.
So not only will we have fireworks for the Queen’s Birthday, but a return to water works.