infrastructure, media release, queensland, Queensland Government,
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Rookwood Weir Concrete Pours Underway
The first concrete pours for the foundations of the Rockwood Weir commenced overnight. This marks another major construction milestone for Queensland’s largest water infrastructure project. The $367.2 million project will unlock thousands of megalitres of water to increase water security, expand irrigated agricultural production and drive new employment and economic opportunities across Central Queensland.
Rookwood Weir will transform this entire region, driving the expansion of irrigated agricultural production and opening up new business opportunities that will boost the local economy.
“The best thing we can do for this country is ensure a secure future for water, our farmers and the regional communities that continue to drive our economic recovery.
“That is why we are investing $3.5 billion through the National Water Grid Fund – to improve water security while promoting local economic activity and job creation along the way.”
Barnaby Joyce – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development
“It is great to see significant progress on this landmark project that will boost employment opportunities and economic growth across Central Queensland,” Minister Butcher said.
“We currently have 196 workers onsite to deliver the weir, 128 of which are Central Queenslanders, with 14 apprentices and trainees.
“Additionally, 95 per cent of project costs will be spent in Queensland.”
Glen Butcher – Queensland Minister for Water
Rookwood Weir project will enable the region to grow and prosper into the future. The approximately 86,000 megalitres of water Rookwood Weir will make available will underpin agricultural growth and deliver secure, reliable and affordable water across Central Queensland.
Concrete is now being produced at the onsite batch plant and used for the weir’s spillway-monoliths and left abutment. This is an important step towards delivering the weir and making more water available to unlock the region’s economic potential.
The project team has been working hard to keep to the construction timeline following a two-week shutdown last month after a contractor that visited the site tested positive for COVID-19.
“Work is back in full swing on this incredibly important local project and it’s a testament to the commitment of everyone that big strides are being made despite activities being stopped while workers quarantined.
“This was made possible by the strict safety controls in place onsite that were adhered to by our workforce and overseen by Queensland Health,” Mr O’Rourke said.
Barry O’Rouke – State Member Rockhampton
“The concrete pours are undertaken in a continuous operation over an 11-hour night shift for about 12 months and we will see the structure take shape over that time.”
“A range of other works for the project were also significantly advanced, including having moved 800,000 m3 of earthworks, while a coffer dam, which will help divert river flows, and a temporary river crossing are close to completion,” he said.
“All of these activities will help enable works to continue when the river height rises with the approaching wet season.”
Glen Stockton – Sunwater Chief Executive Officer
Rookwood Weir is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments, delivered in partnership with Sunwater.
The first water from Rookwood Weir will be available in 2023, following the full commissioning of the infrastructure.
ENDS
Friday 10 September 2021 – Media Release
Read the Media Release here.
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