Central Queensland towns tap into better water security

Two Central Queensland towns now have greater water capacity and security off the back of more than $10.7 million in Queensland Government funding.

Assistant Minister for State Development and Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said upgrades to the Moranbah Reservoir and Dysart Water Treatment Facility will improve the liveability of both towns and position them for growth.

“Regional towns like Moranbah and Dysart can be exposed to water shortages, so it’s important that state and local government works together to increase capacity and accessibility to safe, clean drinking water,” Ms Gilbert said.

“Moranbah’s new 15ML reservoir and supply mains have increased the plant’s current water storage capacity from one to three days, while also addressing critical pressure issues that currently limit firefighting capacity in the town.

“Meanwhile, Dysart’s Water Treatment Plant upgrade – a new raw water storage facility and treatment system – will enhance the region’s capacity to attract and retain residents.

“What we’ll see come as a result of this is greater economic stability and growth in the region.”

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker said safe, reliable water supplies were vital for regional towns to attract residents and investment.

“These new facilities and upgrades will reduce the risk of acute water shortages in the region and help to enhance liveability, business confidence, and the potential for employment and investment,” Ms Baker said.

“Thanks to funding provided by the state government, we can confidently plan ahead now that Moranbah and Dysart have this water security.”

“I also acknowledge the financial support provided by our industry partner BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance to deliver the Dysart upgrade.”

The $10.59 million reservoir and other works at Moranbah Water Treatment Plant were funded by the Palaszczuk Government, through its Building our Regions program, and Isaac Regional Council, with each providing $5.295 million.

The $9.56 million Dysart Water Treatment Plant upgrade was supported with $5.5 million from the Palaszczuk Government, $3.97 million from the BHP Billiton-Mitsubishi Alliance, and $85,742 by Isaac Regional Council.

Both upgrade projects supported an estimated 41 jobs in total.

Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick said Building our Regions has allocated $225 million towards 174 critical infrastructure projects across 62 local governments in regional Queensland, generating approximately 1762 jobs.

“Another $70 million is available under Round 4 of the program, with successful projects expected to be announced in late 2018,” he said.

For more information, visit the Building our Regions website.

ENDS

Media contact: Ben Doyle 0400 775 561