Fitzroy to Gladstone pipeline project

The Gladstone Area Water Board (GAWB) relies on Awoonga Dam on the Boyne River as its main water source. Droughts in recent decades have shown the risks of depending on a single supply. The Fitzroy to Gladstone pipeline project will reduce this risk. It will provide long-term water security and support economic growth in Central Queensland.

The project will build:

  • a 117-kilometre pipeline to transfer up to 30 gigalitres of water a year from the Lower Fitzroy River (at Rookwood Weir) to GAWB at Yarwun
  • an intake structure and pumping station at Laurel Bank
  • a water treatment plant, reservoir and pumping station at Alton Downs
  • reservoirs at Aldoga.

Project benefits

The project will:

  • reduce the single-source water supply risk from Awoonga Dam
  • provide long-term water security for Gladstone’s industry and community
  • support economic development across the region
  • deliver a new regional water connection between the Fitzroy River and Gladstone.

Location

The 117-kilometre pipeline will run from the Lower Fitzroy River at Rookwood Weir to Yarwun near Gladstone. Infrastructure will include an intake at Laurel Bank, treatment and storage facilities at Alton Downs, and reservoirs at Aldoga. This project sits within the Gladstone Regional Council local government area.

Status

The final pipe has now been installed. The project is on track for completion in 2026, subject to conditions.

Timeline

  • Pre-construction phase 2021–2023
  • Early works and site establishment in 2023
  • Construction in 2023
  • Complete and commission in 2026

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