When completed in 1873 it was the second reservoir constructed in Adelaide; it is the oldest still in use in South Australia.[2] It covers 52 hectares (128 acres) and is retained behind a 950-metre (3,117 ft) long clay-cored earth wall. Water is transferred from the River Torrens via a tunnel and aqueduct. The river is also used to transfer water from the Kangaroo Creek and Millbrook reservoirs.[1]
In December 2020, the reservoir was opened to the public for the first time for activities including walking, running, cycling and picnicking.[3]