Construction contracts awarded for Haughton Pipeline Project Stage 2

Stage 2 of the Haughton Pipeline Project in Queensland is ready to commence construction following the award of the construction contract to BMD Constructions and DJ Mac Cormick Contractors. 

The Haughton Pipeline is a critical piece of infrastructure that will deliver a reliable water supply to support both residential and industrial growth in Townsville now and into the future. 

“The need for long-term water security for our city is well understood and supported, and we have pushed hard to make this project a reality. 

“The awarding of construction tenders to BMD Constructions and DJ Mc Cormick Contractors is an excellent outcome for Townsville, as both bring valuable experience from the Stage 1 works to complete the project. 

“With these contract awards, we are a step closer to delivering the integrated water strategy including long-term water security we know our community expects,” Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said. 

The second stage of the Haughton Pipeline Project is jointly funded by the Queensland Government and the Townsville City Council, with the State Government contributing $195 million. 

Stage 1 was completed in 2020 and it delivered approximately 36 kilometres of pipeline between the Haughton River and the Ross River Dam. 

The second stage will deliver an additional 28 kilometres of pipeline, extending Stage 1 to the Burdekin River. 

“The $195 million investment by the Palaszczuk Government in the project recognises Townsville’s importance as a growing hub for industry and defence, providing more jobs and attracting more people. 

“Townsville is also a city that prides itself on its liveability, and a secure water supply that serves future needs is essential as the city grows,” Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said. 

Both BMD Constructions and DJ Mac Cormick Contractors have a proven track record delivering major projects, including Stage 1 of the Haughton Pipeline Project in 2018-19, and after a comprehensive tender process, was awarded contracts to undertake the delivery of the $274 million Stage 2. 

“The awarding of this contract demonstrates our long and collaborative relationship with Townsville City Council and its confidence in BMD’s capability, particularly after our successful delivery on Stage 1,” BMD Constructions General Manager Northern Region Gerard Keynes said. 

“Our experience over 47 years of operation in micro-tunnelling and infrastructure construction/shaft construction has given us the experience we needed for a major pipeline project like Haughton Stage 2,” DJ Mac Cormick Contractors General Manager and Director Malcolm Mac Cormick said. 

The announcement of the contract awards coincides with the arrival of the final bulk delivery of pipes for the second section of the project from Haughton River to the Burdekin River. 

Construction on Stage 2 is anticipated to begin in mid-2023, weather and project conditions permitting. Commissioning of this stage is scheduled for mid-2025. 

Source: Townsville City Council (1, 2); BMD Constructions; Roads & Infrastructure Australia