Update – Burnett Water Feasibility Study
Project Update Evening and Release of Strategic Business Case
On behalf of South Burnett Regional Council, Mayor Brett Otto is pleased to announce the first stage of the $2 million Water Feasibility Study for the Burnett region is now complete.
Mayor Otto explained, “The initial Strategic Business Case has identified our strong regional potential to develop our economy and make a more significant contribution to Queensland’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The Business Case provides a road map for the development of water infrastructure that is needed to open up our region’s potential for agricultural and industrial development, along with population growth.”
“Even if all our existing dams were full, we do not have enough water to grow the economy and bring more jobs into the region. We need to increase the total volume of water allocation available in the South Burnett, which will bring growth and enhance liveability for the region.”
Jacobs were engaged to complete the feasibility study, and have consulted with 45 groups and individuals in order to identify a long list of promising options to meet the region’s key water needs.
“Some of the identified key options in the South Burnett include constructing the Barlil weir, sourcing water from Wivenhoe Dam for Blackbutt irrigators, and increasing water scheme reliability and converting Gordonbrook Dam to irrigation use, subject to additional water been purchased from Boondooma Dam. These are exciting and region transforming options, which could enhance urban and rural liveability and economic potential for generations,” Mayor Otto said.
“Council wants to further engage with the community as we work together to progress the next stage of the feasibility study. Currently, Council is working in partnership with the steering group to discuss how viable projects may progress through further options analysis and create a road map of economic development opportunities to be further developed.”
Mayor otto said, “This study has been a great opportunity for our region, and Council continues to work in partnership with other stakeholders to ensure we receive great outcomes. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 restrictions Council was required to cut some of our face to face engagement however, we were able to work around it. Jacobs will be back in the region soon and are keen to hear your feedback on the first stage of the initial strategic business case and the proposed future outcomes.”
The strategic business case is now available on Council website and all residents and interested parties are invited to the Project Update Evening and presentation of the completed Strategic Business Case, being held at the Kingaroy Town Hall on Wednesday 8 July 2020 at 5:30pm or alternatively via a later Skype teleconference on Thursday 9 July 2020. In order to ensure compliance with COVID-19 protocols, Council asks that you register your attendance by emailing your contact details or alternatively call Council’s Customer Contact team on (07) 4189 9100.
Mayor Otto concluded with, “I would like to thank every person from our region for taking an interest in the Burnett Water Feasibility Study, I look forward to continuing to work with you for our water future and
delivering a great result for the South Burnett Region.”
To stay up to date with the Burnett Water Feasibility Study, please Council's website - Water Feasibility Study page.
To view the Burnett Water Feasibility Study flyer, click here.
