Queensland’s $88.2 million Mount Morgan Pipeline project is progressing, with the first pipes laid marking a key milestone in the project.
The 28km potable water pipeline will provide long-term water security to Mount Morgan, providing certainty and prosperity to the community.
Once complete, the pipeline and associated works will bring an end to water carting and ensure the future needs of both Mount Morgan and Gracemere are met.
The Mount Morgan Pipeline is jointly-funded by the State and Federal Government and Rockhampton Regional Council.
The project is expected to deliver an economic boost to Central Queensland with approximately 50 jobs set to be created as well as benefits to Central Queensland communities.
The project includes:
- Construction of a 28km potable water pipeline from the pump station at Gracemere to Mount Morgan
- Upgrade of the Old Capricorn Highway pump station
- Construction of a new reservoir and new pump station at Lucas Street Gracemere
- New pump station and small reservoir at Moonmera, which is approximately halfway along the pipeline route
- Upgrade to the Razorback Road leading into Mount Morgan while the pipeline is being laid
Significant construction will progress in the first half of the year. Construction of the new reservoirs, pump stations and widening of Razorback Road will commence later in 2024. These works will also support projected growth in Gracemere, ensuring the community has the water security needed to grow and thrive.
The project is anticipated to be completed in September 2025.
Mount Morgan residents have been on level six water usage restrictions since March 2021 due to the prolonged drought conditions and previously low levels in Mount Morgan’s Number Seven dam.
Rockhampton Regional Council has been funding approximately 20 water carting trucks per day to deliver potable supplies to Mount Morgan for more than 30 months, with the Queensland Government contributing $10.8 million toward carting costs
Federal Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek, said, “We announced funding for the Mount Morgan water supply project late last year and so I am pleased to see work commencing today.”
Ms Plibersek said that the project is critical to ensure that Mount Morgan has access to reliable water for generations to come.
“It’s water infrastructure projects like this that ensure Australia has a strong regional heartbeat”.
Senator for Queensland, Anthony Chisholm, said, “Queenslanders are well aware of the threat droughts pose to our environment and the economy, and while this summer hasn’t been as dry as first thought, we need to make sure that we’re as prepared as possible for when we inevitably encounter another drought.
“Collaboration is the key when taking on projects such as these and the Australian Government is proud to partner with the Queensland Government and Rockhampton Regional Council to implement this crucial project.”
Queensland Assistant Minister for Train Manufacturing, Regional Development and Jobs, Bruice Suanders, said, “Not only is this project creating jobs during construction but a secure water supply bolsters jobs growth for existing businesses in the region and brings more businesses and families to the area.”
Mr Saunders said the Albanese and Miles Labor Governments are supporting Rockhampton Regional Council in the delivery of safe and reliable drinking water for Mount Morgan now and into the future.
“We have committed to maximise the use of local labour, suppliers, materials, and sub-contractors.”
Member for Rockhampton, Barry O’Rourke, said, “It’s fantastic to see this region-changing project reach this important milestone.
“The Pipeline and associated works will bring an end to water carting and secure the long-term sustainability and liveability of the town.”
Rockhampton Mayor, Tony Williams, said, “This project is a game-changer for Mount Morgan. We know that we simply don’t have the catchment size and rainfall to provide that vital water security the town needs over the long-term.
Mr Williams said that the Mount Morgan Pipeline will ensure that our community can grow and share in the jobs and economic opportunities being pursued as a region and mean real and tangible benefits for local residents and business.