- Premier and Water Minister have turned sod on the almost $1 billion Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline
- Project will create 400 local jobs and support more than 25 apprenticeships
- Ensures water security for the Gladstone region and unlocks jobs in renewable hydrogen
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Water Minister Glenn Butcher have celebrated construction commencing on the Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline at the Yarwun site.
The $983 million Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline will deliver long term water security to Gladstone residents and industry, and support emerging industries like hydrogen.
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.
The project will create more than 400 jobs at the peak of construction, and more than 25 apprenticeships and traineeships will be supported through the project.
It will also provide a large injection into the Central Queensland supply chain through procurement.
Preparation works, including geotechnical investigations and cultural heritage clearances are taking place at the southern end of the pipeline corridor, near Gladstone, with major works expected to commence in early 2024.
The project is expected to be complete in late 2026, weather and construction conditions permitting.
The Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline is part of the record $5.2 billion investment in water security under the Palaszczuk Government that has delivered 3,400 jobs across the state.
Part of that investment also includes Rookwood Weir and it is the successful delivery of that project that makes this pipeline possible.
Quotes attributable to Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk:
"Our Government is committed to delivering the infrastructure our Queensland communities need to grow and thrive.
"This critical project is more evidence that Queensland's Big Build is delivering for Queenslanders, no matter where they live.
"Not only will this pipeline create 400 jobs during construction, but more jobs will also be created through local businesses who work on the project.
"Its construction will also lead to new industries like hydrogen establishing themselves in Gladstone knowing they have water security, delivering the clean energy jobs of the future."
Quotes attributable to Water Minister and Member for Gladstone, Glenn Butcher:
"This pipeline will deliver water security to the Gladstone region to support good jobs, better services and support the great Queensland lifestyle we love in this state.
"Not only will it create 400 jobs during peak construction, but we're investing in upskilling the next generation, with more than 25 apprenticeships and traineeships available on the project.
"Right now, industry in Gladstone generates $6 billion in gross regional product every year and these activities depend on water now and into the future.
"This project is further proof of the Palaszczuk Government's investment in water security and jobs in Queensland. We can deliver this pipeline thanks to our investment in Rookwood Weir, which is weeks away from completion.
"As recommended by the expert Bradfield Panel, the best use of our precious water resources is using water closer to where it falls and developing regional water grids.
"That is exactly what we are doing through delivering Rookwood Weir and the Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline."
Quotes attributable to Rockhampton MP Barry O'Rourke:
"This isn't just a pipeline for water. It's a pipeline of jobs for Central Queenslanders.
"Its construction will train the next generation and open up opportunities in new industries for students across the region.
"I'm proud to stand as part of a government that is backing water security and delivering Rookwood Weir – a project that makes this pipeline possible."
Quotes attributable to Gladstone Area Water Board CEO, Darren Barlow:
"This sod turning event marks the start of a transformative time in Gladstone's history.
"We're eager to see the lasting positive legacy that the FGP will have on our region, creating economic prosperity and resilience for both Gladstone and Queensland for generations to come.
"The Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline will create more than 400 jobs at the peak of construction in the region, and we're investing time and money into upskilling the next generation, with more than 25 apprenticeships and traineeships, and 10,000 subsequent hours of training, being facilitated as part of the project.
"We expect to see at least 40% of FGP construction costs spent locally throughout the duration of project delivery, which will be a fantastic opportunity and economic boost for Central Queensland."
Further Information
The pipeline will have the capacity to transport 30 gigalitres per annum from the Fitzroy River to Gladstone.
To date, approximately 3.5 kilometres of pipe has been laid through the northern pipeline corridor, near Rockhampton. Early works, including clearing and grading, to prepare the site and create access for pipe laying, commenced in late August and are now complete.
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.
