The Central Queensland regional water assessment has commenced, with an aim to build on the economic benefits delivered by the recently completed Rookwood Weir.
A new regional water assessment (CQ RWA) will be delivered by the Queensland Government with funds secured from the Federal Government.
The first Stakeholder Advisory Group for the CQ RWA was held in Rockhampton on 21 February 2024.
The CQ RWA will carefully review future infrastructure and non-infrastructure options needed in Central Queensland and what projects are needed to meet future demand.
The CQ RWA will also help inform future investment decisions on water projects in Central Queensland to drive economic growth and ensure water security well into the future.
The Assessment builds on the completion of the Miles Government’s Rookwood Weir, as well as projects under construction like the Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline and the Mount Morgan Pipeline
With the Rockwood Weir operational, economic benefits are already being felt in the region and agricultural businesses are going ahead with horticulture projects that are expected to create at least 500 full time jobs.
Major investments in irrigated agriculture are changing the landscape of Central Queensland, as Sunwater continues pre-commissioning work at the Weir.
Rural Funds Management is one of Rookwood Weir’s 25 water customers. The water from Rookwood Weir will allow the company to plant 800,000 macadamia trees over 2,500ha of orchards within the Fitzroy region, west of Rockhampton.
Federal Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek, said that the Rockwood Weir is the largest weir built in Australia since World War II, but that there is more to do.
“Water is our most precious resource, and it is an essential part of our everyday lives,” Ms Plibersek said.
“We know many parts of Queensland are already in drought, with more to be declared in the coming months.
“This strategic planning work is critical in ensuring we are planning for the future and investing in projects that stack up.”
Queensland Minister for Water, Glenn Butcher, said that Rookwood Weir is unlocking many future jobs in food manufacturing, agriculture and services right across Central Queensland.
“With Rookwood Weir completed, the work begins on identifying the next generation of projects we need in Central Queensland to unlock economic growth through improved water security.”
