High Flux Research Reactor

The High Flux Australian Reactor - the first nuclear reactor in Australia, achieved criticality on 26th January 1958.

It was constructed by and for the Australian Atomic Energy Commission to a modified design of the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority by Head Wrightson Processes Ltd, (UK) as primary contractor and International Combustion (Aust), with civil construction by Hutcherson Bros for the architect Stephenson and Turner.

Professor Sir John Phillip Baxter was the AAEC Commissioner in Charge, Charles Watson-Munro was the Chief Scientist, the Engineer in Charge was Bill Roberts and instrumentation and control was by George Page.

HIFAR enabled Australia to participate internationally in the early development of peaceful uses of nuclear energy and in the application of nuclear science and technology to industry, health, education and research. It has been regularly upgraded to meet developing world and regulatory practice.

The Reactor Sealed Building at Lucas Heights.
Source:ARHS

The Engineers Australia plaque at Lucas Heights
Source: ARHS

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Engineering Heritage Recognition Program

Marker Type	National Engineering Landmark (NEL)
Award Date	7 December 2001
Heritage Significance	HIFAR enabled Australia to participate internationally in the early development of peaceful uses of nuclear energy and in the application of nuclear science and technology to industry, health, education and research. It has been regularly upgraded to meet developing world and regulatory practice.
Nomination Document	Available here.
Ceremony Report	Not vailable.
Plaque/Interpretation Panel	Not available.