Central Queensland farmers are expected to be virtually queuing to bid when tenders open online at 5pm today for Rookwood Weir water.
Natural Resources Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said Sunwater had had a positive response from local farmers and other potential buyers during the past four weeks of discussions ahead of tenders opening today.
“A project like this is a once-in-a-generation game changer for a region,” Dr Lynham said.
“Central Queensland farmers and businesses clearly recognise an opportunity when they see one.
“The Palaszczuk Government’s economic plan for Queensland, Unite and Recover, is focussed on building our traditional strengths like agriculture to create local jobs, as well as building infrastructure.
“We’re starting to deliver on that plan, with a $50 billion infrastructure guarantee to support communities and jobs across Queensland.”
The first tender opening today makes available up to 30,000 megalitres of medium priority water for agricultural and non-urban use.
It closes on 21 July, and contracts should be in place with the successful tenderers by September.
As well today, expressions of interest open for a second tranche of at least 7500 megalitres of smaller lots of medium priority water. The EOIs remain open until the end of the year,
Assistant Education Minister and Member for Keppel Brittany Lauga encouraged local farmers and their peak bodies to step up to the opportunity the extra water provided.
“I know our local farmers and graziers support new water infrastructure for CQ,” she said.
“Here’s the chance to put up your hand for some of that water to expand and improve your business.
“This is a potential new future for local producers and our communities in CQ.
Member for Rockhampton Barry O’Rourke said Rookwood Weir water presented an opportunity for local farmers to transition to high value agriculture, creating more jobs and better returns.
“Making a major change to your business may be challenging, particularly in this post-COVID world,” he said.
“But as part of the EOI process for the second tranche of water, Sunwater is planning to help local producers assess whether their farms are suitable to transition from grazing to higher value crops.
“Queensland is an agricultural powerhouse and demand remains strong globally for our top-quality produce.”
Meanwhile, the $2.2 million Capricorn Highway intersection upgrade at Gogango and the $7.5 million upgrade at Thirsty Creek Road are almost completed, and work is scheduled to start on the new Riverslea Bridge next month.
