FRASER Coast Regional Council has completed a detailed business case for the ‘Fraser Coast Water Grid,’ which will connect the Hervey Bay and Maryborough water supply schemes.
Mayor George Seymour said the business case shows the project’s benefits surpass its costs, and it will serve as a roadmap for the detailed design, approvals, and funding needed for the water grid.
“Council is proposing to connect our water supply systems by building a two-way pipeline and pumping stations, forming a Fraser Coast Water Grid,” he said.
“This will allow treated water to be pumped between Fraser Coast major water service areas, improving water security and reliability, and maximising the use of our water sources.
“The ability to transfer water throughout the region also provides flexibility if one of the treatment plants is affected by plant failure, a natural disaster, or major planned maintenance.
“The economic analysis indicates the water grid will save the community about $88 million by avoiding severe water restrictions.
“A water grid is all about ensuring a safe, reliable and secure water supply for all of the Fraser Coast.”
Deputy Mayor Paul Truscott said preliminary estimates suggest the water grid could cost $60 million to construct, with Council to seek funding from other levels of government through dedicated water grid funding programmes.
“Council recognises that water is our most valuable resource and endorsed the ‘Fraser Coast Water Supply Security Strategy’ in early 2022 to guide future investment in the regional water network,” he said.
“This strategy identified the water grid and a desalination plant in Hervey Bay by 2036, as key to a secure, reliable and affordable water future for the Fraser Coast.
“The business case is the next step in progressing the Fraser Coast Water Grid, with detailed design work to now follow. Council has also endorsed the business case for submission to the State and Commonwealth Departments responsible for National Water Grid funding programs.”
A more precise project cost estimate for the Fraser Coast Water Grid will be available after the detailed design is completed.
