The Federal Government has today pledged $26.5 million to progress Rockhampton’s $88.2 million Mount Morgan Pipeline Project to deliver long-term water security to the Central Queensland region.
“It’s great to see the project reach this important milestone,” said Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor, Tony Williams.
“For generations, the Mount Morgan community has struggled with water security and the imposition of water restrictions for extended periods.
“We know that water security in regional areas means security for jobs and opportunity and I am particularly proud to see the Palaszczuk and Albanese Governments working with Council to deliver on our commitment to Mount Morgan.”
The project also provides an opportunity for Council to undertake important infrastructure works that will improve water security for the wider community. These complementary works include additional reservoir and pumping capacity to support anticipated growth in Gracemere as well as widening and upgrading the Razorback Road when pipework is being laid.
Together, the package of works will ensure the future needs of both Mount Morgan and Gracemere are met. Council is funding these complementary works, which is part of the $88.2 million total project budget.
The Queensland Government and Council have committed to maximise the use of local labour, suppliers, materials, and sub-contractors on the project.
“This project will create about 50 jobs during construction, and we are seeing that already with the route being prepared and pipes being moved onsite,” said Queensland Water Minister, Glenn Butcher.
“We also know that providing a secure water supply also means more jobs and more growth for this community into the future,” he said.
“We’re committed to delivering secure and reliable water to communities across Queensland. With hotter, drier weather around the corner it is more important than ever to do this,” said Federal Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek.
“It’s fantastic to help fund this pipeline to ensure Mount Morgan has access to reliable water for generations to come.”
The Mount Morgan Pipeline Project includes:
- Construction of a 28km potable water pipeline from the Pump Station at Gracemere to Mount Morgan;
- Upgrade of the Gracemere 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.
Mount Morgan residents have been on level 6 water usage restrictions since March 2021 due to the prolonged drought conditions and low levels in Mount Morgan’s Number 7 dam.
Rockhampton Regional Council has been funding approximately 20 water carting trucks per day to deliver potable supplies to Mount Morgan for over 30 months, with the Queensland Government contributing $10.8 million toward carting costs.
“A strong national economy needs a strong Central Queensland, and that’s why investments like this one are so important,” said Federal Treasurer, Jim Chalmers.
“I’ve seen the dynamism in the Mount Morgan community and know this pipeline will help ensure the town continues to thrive and prosper in the years and decades ahead.”
The project is anticipated to be completed in September 2025, weather permitting.
