Pipeline tenders called for Cloncurry water lifeline

Tenders have been called for companies to provide pipes, to build a 38 kilometre water lifeline from the Ernest Henry Mine to the town of Cloncurry, in the state’s north-west.

Water Minister Craig Wallace said the calling of tenders is the first major step towards building the $42.5 Million pipeline, which will provide long-term water security for the people of the drought-ridden town.

“This pipeline will ensure the town of Cloncurry will not go dry,” Mr Wallace said.

“Since the Bligh Government announced the construction of the pipeline on Monday, there has been great relief in the town of Cloncurry.

“The calling for tenders shows we are serious about delivering this project as fast as possible.”

Member for Mt Isa Betty Kiernan said the quick progress on the pipeline project is great news for Cloncurry residents.

“While recent downpours have provided some relief, people are still very concerned about the town’s water future,” Ms Kiernan said.

“This pipeline will be a lifeline for Cloncurry – and the calling for tenders just days after the pipeline was announced makes it very clear, there will be no mucking around when it comes to delivering on this commitment.”

SunWater advise that once the tenders for pipe and construction companies are determined, work crews will begin immediate construction at the end of the wet season.

It is expected that actual pipe-laying will begin in May 2009 and be completed between July and September.

Minister Wallace said geo-technical drilling will start this Friday and all other necessary approvals are due to be in place by February.

“SunWater is confident that if all goes to plan we will crack through the parched pipeline route and commence pipe laying by May, with the first water flowing to Cloncurry by mid-September.

“This is a big project that requires cooperation from all parties involved, and I commend the Mitakoodi People, landholders, Cloncurry Shire Council, Ernest Henry Mine owners Xstrata and SunWater for their efforts and support to date.

“There is a lot of hard work ahead to get the water flowing, and I know all these groups will continue to work together to ensure long-term water security can be provided for the people of Cloncurry.”

Tenders for pipe supply close on January 20, 2009. Interested parties should contact SunWater on (07) 3120 0000.

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