- First pipes have arrived for the $983 million Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline
- $548.5 million locked in the Big Build, for construction
- Project will create 400 local jobs and more than 25 apprenticeships
The first pipes for the $983 million Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline arrived in Rockhampton this week, signalling that preparations are well underway for the start of construction.
The 117-kilometre pipeline will run from the Lower Fitzroy River in Rockhampton and connect to Gladstone Area Water Board's existing water network at Yarwun, providing long-term water security to Gladstone's industry and will support ongoing economic development in the region.
The Palaszczuk Government approved construction of the $983 million Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline with $548.5 million to be spent in 2023-24 to continue the delivery of the project.
To assist Gladstone Area Water Board with funding this important project, last week's Budget also included an equity allocation of $550 million made possible by the uplift in royalty revenue.
The pipeline will have the capacity to transport 30 gigalitres per annum from the Fitzroy River to Gladstone.
The pipes are being manufactured by Steel Mains Pty Ltd; an Australian manufacturer and supplier of complete steel pipelines for the transportation of water and wastewater.
Works are underway and the expected project completion is late 2026, weather and construction conditions permitting.
Quotes attributable to Water Minister and Member for Gladstone, Glenn Butcher:
"The 117-kilometre pipeline will deliver long-term water security to the Gladstone region to support more job creating industries – this is good jobs now and into the future.
"The funding locked in as part of the Big Build is proof of the Palaszczuk Government's commitment to Central Queenslanders.
"The Bradfield panel recommended investing in the use of water closer to where it falls as well as developing Regional Water Grids, and we are doing just that."
Quotes attributable to Member for Rockhampton, Barry O'Rourke:
"We're eager to see the lasting positive legacy that the Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline will have on our region as a result of the Palaszczuk Government's commitment to supporting local content and workforce.
"We expect to see at least 40% of Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline construction costs spent locally throughout the duration of project delivery, which will be a fantastic opportunity and economic boost for Rockhampton."
Quotes attributable to Gladstone Area Water Board CEO, Darren Barlow:
"This is a significant milestone for the delivery of the Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline and is a great opportunity to ensure that this project is on Central Queenslander's radars.
"The McConnell Dowell BMD Joint Venture team has spent the last three months negotiating with landholders, procuring equipment and materials, and starting works at the Gracemere laydown area and workers camp to gear up for start of construction in August this year."
Further Information:
Gladstone Area Water Board was appointed by the State Government in August 2021 to deliver pre-construction activities for the pipeline, which included undertaking procurement activities, addressing land access arrangements and determining long lead time items to ensure construction readiness for the pipeline.
The infrastructure approval aligns with recommendations made in the Bradfield Report, commissioned by the Queensland Government.
The Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline will continue to be owned and operated by Gladstone Area Water Board once operational.
