Queensland’s proposed Cooranga Weir has moved into its next substantive phase, with Sunwater awarding the detailed design contract to Stantec.
The appointment marks a transition from policy commitment to technical delivery for a project intended to bolster long-term water security in the Burnett region.
Planned for the Boyne River downstream of Boondooma Dam, the nine-metre-high, 180-metre-wide structure would store approximately 2,500 megalitres, adding incremental regulated capacity to support irrigated agriculture and regional growth.
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From concept to detailed engineering
Sunwater CEO Glenn Stockton said the design phase will engage a team of 15 Queensland-based engineering specialists and is expected to conclude in early 2027.
“This work will include the required engineering designs, drawings, and construction support to build the nine-metre high and 180-metre-wide weir,” Mr Stockton said.
He confirmed that site investigations, planning activities and environmental approval processes are already underway to enable future construction.
The current phase will produce design options and cost estimates for consideration by the Queensland Government in 2026, when an investment decision on delivery is expected.
A storage solution for the Burnett
At 2,500ML, Cooranga Weir is modest compared to large dam infrastructure, but in regulated river systems incremental storage can materially improve operational flexibility.
The Burnett region has long relied on coordinated releases from Boondooma Dam and other storages to support irrigators and local industry. Additional storage downstream could improve seasonal capture, reduce transmission losses and strengthen supply reliability during dry sequences.
Minister for Local Government and Water Ann Leahy said the project is designed to increase water security and boost regional productivity.
“The design work will ensure we build a great asset that will provide certainty for irrigators for decades to come and ensure a sustainable plan for Queensland’s future,” Minister Leahy said.
Economic and regional development signal
Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates framed the project as disciplined regional infrastructure investment.
“We are focused on making sure public money is invested carefully and in projects that support real jobs and long-term growth,” Minister Bates said.
Assistant Minister for Regional Development Bryson Head said progress on Cooranga Weir reflects renewed attention to regional infrastructure priorities.
For the Burnett’s agricultural base, water reliability is a foundational input. Secure allocations underpin cropping decisions, capital investment and land value stability. Even relatively small storage enhancements can influence confidence across supply chains.
Investment decision still ahead
While the design contract is a milestone, the project remains subject to final costings, environmental approvals and government investment approval in 2026.
The design phase will refine technical parameters, quantify capital requirements and assess construction staging. Procurement activities and enabling works planning are already being scoped in parallel.