The Townsville Water Security Taskforce has released its interim report, recommending a $200 million duplicate pipeline be constructed
from Haughton Pump Station to Ross River Dam within the next two years.
The report also recommended the new pipeline come with solutions for high voltage and renewable energy connectivity to lower energy costs associated with water transportation from the Burdekin Falls Dam to Townsville.
“We are recommending a larger capacity duplicate pipeline be initiated as a priority and we’re binding it to cheaper energy solutions,” chair Brad Webb said.
The interim report provided a list of short and medium-term recommendations and long-term options to three levels of government following several months of consultation,technical reviews and deliberations.
Mr Webb said the immediate solution and major piece of infrastructure had funding in place courtesy of the Palascszuk Government and represented the most efficient use of public funds for the greatest return.
“We have finite resources and a bird in the hand right now, so I think our community can live comfortably knowing that two years from now we will have abundant water for the next 15 years, and that this solution sets us up for further long-term growth beyond that,” he said.
State Water Supply Minister Mark Bailey said the Palaszczuk Government was committed to working with Townsville City Council and the Australian Government to implement the report findings.
“The Palaszczuk Government understands the need for action and that is why we have $225 million on the table for water security measures for Townsville,” Mr Bailey said.
“This funding is ready to go and could be used to fund short-term solutions, such as demand management and supply efficiency measures, as well as long-term infrastructure options such as the duplication of the pipeline from the Haughton Pump Station to Ross River Dam.
“We are serious about our commitment to the North and our commitment to regional Queensland, and a secure water supply will support our communities and provide confidence for the continued expansion of industries that support jobs.
“This adds to our $236 million committed as part of the Powering North Queensland Plan to upgrade Burdekin Falls Dam and fund the proposed hydro-electric power station, an investment in water supply and sustainable energy generation in the North.”
The taskforce’s final report is due in September 2018, once further technical studies are completed.
