Have your say on Stanthorpe’s Emu Swamp Dam

The State Government is seeking public feedback about a Stanthorpe Shire Council proposal to secure water supplies by building a dam on the Severn River.

Acting Premier and Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, Paul Lucas, said Coordinator-General Colin Jensen had today released an Environmental Impact Statement for the planned Emu Swamp Dam.

The EIS also includes a 23km pipeline to Stanthorpe’s water treatment plant and, possibly, extra pipeline to rural properties for irrigation.

With the existing Storm King Dam at low levels Stanthorpe council wants to build the Emu Swamp Dam on the Severn River, 15km south-west of Stanthorpe.

The EIS investigates two options: a 5,000 megalitre dam for urban use only and a combined urban and irrigation use dam of 10,500 megalitres.

“Stanthorpe currently produces most of the state’s apples and stone fruit and half of Queensland’s grapes, and stands out for its summer vegetables,” Mr Lucas said.

“The Stanthorpe council has been looking at a new dam since 1997 in response to demands from residents and farmers for extra water and it’s important to find a long-term solution.

“Although council is yet to decide on a final design, this is the community’s chance to have a say on both dam options. I would encourage people to contact the Coordinator-General if they have any comments on the EIS for the proposed dam.”

Up to 16 properties would be directly affected by the inundation area of the dam and part of a local road would need to be closed. Construction cost estimates range between $45 million and $82 million, depending on which option is built. Construction would take up to 18 months.

The public can comment on the EIS until Monday February 25.

Following the Coordinator-General’s consideration of the EIS, the proposal would be sent to the Federal Government for final approval.

For information on the EIS, and advice on how to make a submission, visit the Department of

Infrastructure and Planning website at www.infrastructure.qld.gov.au

Media inquiries: Robert Hoge 0419 757 868