Along with Boondooma Dam, it is the main source of water supply for Kingaroy in the Wide Bay-Burnett area.

It was built in 1941 to provide water for the Royal Australian Air Force Training Base during World War II.

From a catchment of 590 square kilometres, the dam stores 6,800 megalitres at full supply level, covering an area of 130 hectares.

When the lake area is open to public recreation, the dam provides a good range of water-based activities.

The lake is largely accessible to small to medium-sized motorised boats, jetskis, canoes and windcraft.