CREWS are laying over 100m of pipeline in Takura everyday as the Fraser Coast Regional Council works to improve water reliability in Hervey Bay.
The $4.6-million project – being funded by the Queensland Government and Council – will see a duplicate pipeline being laid from the Burgowan water treatment plant to reservoirs at Takura.
The 4.8km pipeline is expected to be completed in the coming months.
NOW READ: Recent rains not enough to prevent water restrictions
Good News Fraser Coast inspected the site today, where experienced technicians are working with two trainees and an apprentice to ensure valuable skills are passed on to future generations.
Deputy Mayor Darren Everard said the project ensured Council staff maintained and enhanced their skills in the construction of large diameter water mains.
ALSO READ: Council’s focus on better Fraser Coast neighbourhoods revealed
“It is fantastic that the State Government could financially assist us to undertake this project,” Cr Everard said.
The State Government contributed $2.754-million to the project, while $1.863-million is coming from Council’s coffers.
ALSO READ: More Fraser Coast road and drainage projects kick off
Cr Everard said the project had many different benefits for Hervey Bay and its surrounding communities.
Firstly, Council will be able to reduce power use by minimising the time it needs to pump water in peak demand periods.
“The duplication will also improve reliability of the reticulation system which supplies the Bay by ensuring that if one main needs to be shut, the city can still be supplied with water,” Cr Everard explained.
WATCH: Animated fly through of proposed 16-storey Hervey Bay development
Member for Hervey Bay Adrian Tantari said the project was a great investment in the area and would help improve water security throughout the region.
Maryborough Member Bruce Saunders said 45 jobs were generated.
To reduce the impact on the local environment, Mr Saunders said the new pipeline was being built within road reserves and existing easements.
WATCH: Animated flyover of Boundary Road extension shows full extent of project
“This is what happens when the Maryborough and Hervey Bay electorates work together, the Fraser Coast comes first,” he said.
The existing pipeline was first laid in 1991.
Mr Saunders said it was important for Council and the State Government to look at its infrastructure and plan for the future, as the region’s population continues to grow.
The Fraser Coast Regional Council has allocated some $24.8-million of its current budget for projects to boost the region’s water and sewerage services.
