The Commonwealth Government announced today it would increase its funding pledge to $176 million to kick start construction of Rookwood Weir, west of Rockhampton.
This adds $46 million to its previous commitments and matches the Queensland Government 50:50 in funding the $352 million project.
Capricorn Enterprise chief executive officer Mary Carroll said Rookwood Weir had been identified as one of the most critical Regional Priority Projects since that group’s formation in 2010.
“Capricorn Enterprise is thrilled about today’s announcement by the Prime Minister that the Federal Government will grant the State Government half ($176 Million) of the construction costs of the Rookwood Weir so that this project can finally commence, creating hundreds of jobs and future water security and prosperity for central Queensland,” she said.
The weir will be able to supply 76,000 megalitres of water for agricultural production along the Fitzroy River, as well as providing water security for urban centres..
Livingstone Shire Mayor Bill Ludwig said the project was the cornerstone of a broader water initiative for the greater central Queensland area that began more than 15 years ago through the collaboration of the region’s councils and State Government.
“Rookwood Weir will supply an additional 76,000ML that will transform our region’s agricultural capacity to supply national and international export markets, secure and expand our current future industrial growth as well as urban water facility needs to the year 2050 and beyond,” he said.
“Our region is the Gateway to Northern Australia, and Rookwood Weir will be critical to our ability to diversify and realise our full potential in contributing to both the State and National economies.”
Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry said the project had the potential to deliver more than 200 jobs through construction and more than 2100 long-term roles through agricultural expansion.
State Natural Resources Minister Dr Anthony Lynham pledged to move quickly on the project once Federal support was detailed.
