The Queensland Government has announced stage two of digital water meter upgrades and the replacement of around 3.5km of ageing water mains is about to commence under the $18.6 million Longreach Water Security for Growth project.
The upgraded meters and water supply infrastructure are targeted at reducing water leakage and losses in the region.
More than 1,600 new smart water meters will be installed throughout the life of the project, with 800 new meters already installed through stage one of the meter upgrade program, completed late last year.
The Government says the new meters are already delivering water efficiencies, making it quicker and easier for council and residents to identify water leaks, manage water use and reduce water losses.
“Of the many positives from this project, I am proud we are supporting the families and businesses of this western Queensland farming region, delivering more reliable water supply to support this community now, and for generations to come,” said Queensland Minister for Local Government and Water, Ann Leahy.
“The progress in the project reflects the strong partnership between all three levels of government to deliver for our regions.”
Works to replace the town’s ageing water mains network with modern, hardwearing PVC mains will help deliver more reliable and sustainable water supply services for the community into the future.
Planning for the five new and upgraded weirs along the Thomson River is also underway. This will increase water storage capacity and safeguard the town’s water supply. Construction is expected to begin by mid-year, weather permitting.
The project is being funded by the Australian Government, through the National Water Grid Fund, and Queensland Government in partnership with Longreach Regional Council.
Longreach Mayor, Tony Rayner said the support from Federal and State Governments is vital to regional and remote communities.
“Water security is the key strategic focus for our council, and this project is the culmination of years of work that will have a lasting impact on the quality of life in our community,” he said.
“These initiatives will contribute to the sustainable growth and development of not only our community, but the other towns across the west that rely on Longreach as a hub for services.
“So to have this level of support from our colleagues in the Australian and Queensland governments is a great boost for our region.”
Queensland Assistant Minister for Primary Industry Development, Water and Western Queensland, Sean Dillon said the project is about securing Longreach’s water future and supporting the people who rely on it every day.
“The replacement of ageing mains will reduce water losses and improve reliability across the town,” Mr Dillon said.
“Strong water security underpins strong regional communities. By investing in modern infrastructure and planning new weirs on the Thomson River, we are helping Longreach grow with confidence and resilience well into the future.”
