Construction under way for Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline

Chris EdwardsApril 29, 2024, 1:14 pmJune 14, 2024

Major construction of two Aldoga Reservoirs has commenced as part of the $983 million Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline.

Located at the southern section of the pipeline, the two reservoirs will hold up to 100 megalitres of water and feed Gladstone Area Water Board’s (GAWB) existing water network.

The 117-kilometre pipeline will run from the Fitzroy River near Rockhampton and connect to Gladstone Area Water Board’s existing water network at Yarwun.

The project has supported 400 jobs during peak construction and 25 apprenticeships. Local content has been central to the project, with GAWB using 111 Central Queensland businesses, generating more good jobs in the region.

The Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline is expected to be operational in 2026, weather and construction conditions permitting.

The Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline is part of the Queensland government’s record $5.8 billion investment in water infrastructure. It has delivered vital water security, economic growth, and 3,550 jobs across the state.

Part of that investment also includes Rookwood Weir, and the successful delivery of that project makes this pipeline possible.

The pipeline will have the capacity to transport 30 gigalitres per annum from the Fitzroy River to Gladstone.

To date, approximately 44 kilometres of pipe has been laid. Early works, including clearing and grading, to prepare the site and create access for pipe laying commenced in late August and are now complete.

For more information about the Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline, visit the Gladstone Area Water Board website.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Water and Member for Gladstone, Glenn Butcher:

“Working alongside our Rookwood Weir, the biggest Weir since World War Two, the Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline will deliver long-term water security to the Gladstone region. This further proves that the Queensland Government and the Big Build continue to provide for Central Queensland.

“The Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline isn’t just bringing water security to Gladstone. It will unlock more jobs in emerging industries like hydrogen and critical minerals.

“Thanks to this important Big Build project, 111 local businesses are helping the construction effort. That’s more local jobs and more supplier opportunities right across Central Queensland.

“The proof is in the pudding. Thanks to the Queensland government, thousands of jobs have been created in Central Queensland, with more to come thanks to our $62 Billion Energy and Jobs Plan.

Quotes attributable to Gladstone Area Water Board Chief Executive Officer Darren Barlow:

“It is fantastic to see the progress at the Aldoga Reservoirs site following three months of preparative works, which included removing more than 65,700 cubic metres of earth.

“Each reservoir is approximately 76 metres wide, which is more than the width of a rugby field, so it has undoubtedly been a massive job for the team.

“Our Principal Contractors, McConnell Dowell BMD Joint Venture, are currently 43 per cent of the way through total construction, with more than 44 kilometres of pipe laid to date.

“The team also recently celebrated the finalisation of roadworks on Laurel Bank and Ski Gardens Roads and the trenchless crossings at the Capricorn Highway.

“We are committed to keeping local communities informed about ongoing works and will host a series of community information sessions in Gracemere, Alton Downs and Yarwun over the coming months.”

Quotes attributable to Schwarz Excavations General Manager Jeffrey Schwarz:

“The Fitzroy to Gladstone pipeline certainly is an excellent project to be part of. Schwarz Excavations has been working on the project since April 2023. This is a big project for water security and future industries, which is exciting for our business.

“We are proudly based in Gracemere and employ over 100 Central Queenslanders. Up to 60 people and 35 machines are working on the Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline project at any given time.”