Construction progresses on $88.2m Mt Morgan Pipeline project

Construction of the $88.2 million Mount Morgan Water Supply Pipeline Project has reached a major milestone as it saw the first pipes laid along Kabra Road. 

This project will not only provide long-term water security to Mount Morgan, but it will also provide certainty and prosperity to the local community. 

“It’s fantastic to see this region-changing project reach this important milestone,” Member for Rockhampton Barry O’Rourke said. 

“It is great to have reached this significant milestone and to see the first pipes being installed. 

“This project is a game-changer for Mount Morgan. We know that we simply don’t have the catchment size and rainfall to provide that vital water security the town needs over the long-term. 

“The Mount Morgan Pipeline will ensure that our community can grow and share in the jobs and economic opportunities we are pursuing as a region and mean real and tangible benefits for local residents and business,” Rockhampton Mayor Tony Williams said. 

The community has endured prolonged periods of drought and water restrictions, so this project is a game-changer for the region. 

The project includes: 

• Construction of a 28-kilometre potable water pipeline from the Pump Station at Gracemere to Mount Morgan 
• Upgrade of the Old Capricorn Highway pump station 
• Construction of a new reservoir and new pump station at Lucas Street, Gracemere 
• New pump station and small reservoir at Moonmera, which is approximately halfway along the pipeline route 
• Upgrade to the Razorback Road leading into Mount Morgan while the pipeline is being laid 

“We’re getting on with delivering the infrastructure that Queensland needs to safeguard our water supply so that regional communities can continue to be a great place to live. 

“Queenslanders are well aware of the threat droughts pose to our environment and the economy, and while this summer hasn’t been as dry as first thought, we need to make sure that we’re as prepared as possible for when we inevitably encounter another drought. 

“Collaboration is the key when taking on projects such as these and the Australian Government is proud to partner with the Queensland Government and Rockhampton Regional Council to implement this crucial project,” Senator for Queensland Anthony Chisholm said. 

Once construction is completed, the Pipeline and associated works will remove the need for water carting. This project will also ensure that the future needs of both Mount Morgan and Gracemere are met while delivering much-needed jobs and jump-starting economic prosperity for Central Queensland. 

The Mount Morgan Pipeline project is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments and Rockhampton Regional Council. 

The project is estimated to create up to 50 jobs and provide benefits to local businesses, delivering a boost to the Central Queensland economy. 

“Our government is committed to water security in regional Queensland. We announced funding for the Mount Morgan water supply project late last year and so I am pleased to see work commencing today. 

“This is a critical project to ensure Mount Morgan has access to reliable water for generations to come. 

“It’s water infrastructure projects like this that ensure Australia has a strong regional heartbeat, something that this government is proud to deliver,” Minister for the Environment and Water Tanya Plibersek said. 

Major works will progress soon with the construction of the new reservoirs, pump stations and widening of Razorback Road commencing later this year. These works will also support the projected growth in Gracemere, ensuring water security that the community needs to grow and thrive. 

Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed in September 2025. 

“Not only is this project creating jobs during construction but a secure water supply bolsters jobs growth for existing businesses in the region and brings more businesses and families to the area. 

“The Albanese and Miles Labor Governments are supporting Rockhampton Regional Council in the delivery of safe and reliable drinking water for Mount Morgan now and into the future. 

“We have committed to maximise the use of local labour, suppliers, materials, and sub-contractors,” Assistant Minister for Train Manufacturing, Regional Development and Jobs Bruce Saunders said. 

Source: Queensland Government – Media Statements; Roads & Infrastructure Australia; Infrastructure Magazine