Survey work is currently underway to inform the final route for the Toowoomba to Warwick Pipeline, part of a more than $300 million investment set to deliver long-term water security to the Southern Downs and create more than 400 jobs during construction.
The pipeline is designed to carry water from Wivenhoe Dam to Toowoomba via existing water infrastructure, then deliver water to Warwick through a new 109km pipeline. The new pipeline is set to provide a drought contingency supply for the Southern Downs and a permanent water supply to Toowoomba satellite communities of Cambooya, Greenmount, Nobby and Clifton.
The Queensland State Government committed $13.4 million in the Budget for pre-construction work this year, as part of the Big Build.
Geotechnical work and consultation with local landholders will form part of the pre-construction phase.
The pipeline will have the capacity to transfer up to 10.3ML per day from Wivenhoe Dam.
The expected project completion is in early 2027, weather and construction conditions permitting.
Queensland State Minister for Water, Glenn Butcher, said, “The Queensland Government continues to deliver water infrastructure that Queenslanders need, providing more water security and more jobs.
“We know how tough the drought was for the Southern Downs and I’m pleased to see this vital water security project moving forward.
“Ensuring we can move water around the region when needed through drought-resilient water supply infrastructure like the Toowoomba to Warwick Pipeline is critical to meeting future growth.
“I thank the Toowoomba and Southern Downs Councils for working together with us on this project that will be critical for both regions’ future water security.”
Seqwater General Manager Major Projects, Barbara van Heerden, said,“While Warwick and Toowoomba have local water supply dams, this new pipeline provides more options to manage water supply challenges arising from intermittent rainfall, drought and population growth.
“Early pre-construction works, including surveying, geotechnical work and landholder consultation will continue throughout the corridor during 2023.
“These important works will help us understand the terrain and will inform the detailed design work, including the final route recommendation.”
