The dam was built on the Barron River about 100 km inland from Cairns. From 2008 to 2013, $24.7 million was invested in a major Dam Improvement Project which included installation of active crest anchors, a dam crest wave wall, downstream protection works and raising the saddle dam. The dam’s primary purpose is to ensure continuity of water supply to the Atherton Tableland. The dam also has an important role in the generation of hydro-electricity locally.

The Burdekin Falls Dam Raising Project is a proposal to raise the existing dam as a potential means to augment and increase water supply in the Burdekin and surrounding regions.  Works may include raising of the spillway, abutments and saddle dams, as well as adjustments to the spillway apron and possible changes to the access road alignment.

Sunwater required a Concept Estimate for the raising of Tinaroo Falls Dam in order to increase the storage area and yield.