The Queensland Government is providing $1.2 million to Longreach Regional Council to repair Isisford Weir – one of West Queensland’s most important sources of water.
Queensland Premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk, said, “Water is our most important resource, particularly in proud agricultural communities here in West Queensland.
“We know that to rebuild our economy, we must invest in new infrastructure and safeguard our water supply – that’s what this announcement is all about.
“I asked the Mayor what his number one concern was for Longreach and he said the Weir.
“From droughts through to COVID-19 – it’s been a challenging couple of years for the people of West Queensland.
“We’re investing in services and infrastructure like the Isisford Weir to help locals rebuild and recover.”
The Isisford Weir, on the Barcoo River is a key asset to provide drinking water to the Isisford Community and supports the economy of the town.
The 190ML weir works in unison with a 250ML offstream storage facility and the local water treatment plant to provide water for the community.
A recent structural assessment report of the dam identified the need for emergency repairs for the weir that had been constructed in 1934.
Queensland Minister for Water, Glenn Butcher, said the announcement was an important part of the State Government’s economic recovery plan for regional Queensland.
Mr Butcher said repair works would support around ten local jobs and pump $1.2 million into the economy.
“The Palaszczuk Government continues to invest in regional communities to create local jobs and support regional communities to rebuild and recover,” Mr Butcher said.
“Today we’re partnering with the council to give water security to locals in this region.”
Mr Butcher said the weir repair works would be supervised by Longreach Regional Council as part of its capital works program and are anticipated to be completed by the end of 2021.
“As well as securing water supplies for Isisford, this project will help to boost the economy of the Isisford Region as Council completes the work for this important project,” Mr Butcher said.
Mr Butcher said secure water supplies for communities was a key priority for the Queensland Government.
“This is absolutely critical for the local community,” Mr Butcher said.
“I’m proud to be part of a government that’s listening to the people of the outback and delivering what locals need.”
