A crucial piece of specialised equipment is progressing work on the pipeline project.
The Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) has nearly completed installing jacking pipes underneath the rail line near the Flinders Highway.
Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said Council was still committed to deliver on its promises.
“Long-term water security is still a crucial issue for Townsville even though the dam is full,” Cr Hill said.
“The unprecedented monsoon shows exactly how unpredictable our weather can be.
“Our city needs to be prepared for the next time we enter into drought conditions and that’s why Council is totally committed to building the pipeline.”
Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said it was good to see the ongoing progress on the pipeline project which would be an essential piece of infrastructure for the Townsville community for decades to come.
“As the Townsville community pushes on and begins work to recover from the recent and severe weather event, I am pleased to see that the pipeline project is also forging ahead, where practicable,” Mr Stewart said.
“The Palaszczuk Government is investing $225 million to ensure water security for Townsville for years to come and it’s important that work continues and milestones such as this one continue to be realised.”
Townsville Water and Waste Committee Chair Cr Russ Cook said the Tunnel Boring Machine starting work was another important milestone.
“The floods have had an impact on the project’s timeline and we are working to complete the pipeline by March next year,” Cr Cook said.
“The pipeline is still Council’s top infrastructure priority and we are working closely with all companies on the project to maximise the number of local jobs created.”
Cr Cook said the pipeline was a key plank of Council’s 3-point water security solution.
Council’s 3-point water security solution includes:
- The new 1.8-metre diameter pipeline
- A recycled water reuse scheme for public open spaces and industrial use
- Water Smart Package
