Weir project a step closer
CHARTERS Towers is one step closer to getting the green light for the Big Rocks Weir project, and a major boost to the local economy.
The project, which will establish a new water source for the region, is in the process of having a business case study conducted on behalf of the State and Federal governments.
But in a big boost to that process, the Charters Towers Regional Council has been nominated as the proponent if the project proceeds.
It is a big win for the council, which has fought for the project to ensure it delivers jobs to the region.
The project was part of the $54 million business case program conducted by Townsville
Enterprise Limited that included the start of investigations into the broader Hells Gates Dam project.
The Federal Government has allocated $30 million of those funds should a project business case prove that Big Rocks is economically viable.
Charters Towers Mayor Frank Beveridge said the council was excited about the opportunity for major agricultural expansion in the region.
“The Big Rocks Weir concept has been around for decades and today with the announcement of council as the potential proponent, we are closer to seeing it turn to reality,” Cr Beveridge said.
“With appropriate Federal and State government funding support, a future Big Rocks Weir can add substantial value to the region’s agricultural production, including more onfarm employment and capital works, as well as food processing and handling services to supply domestic and export markets.”
Hells Gates and Big Rocks Weir Project Leadership Group chair Joe Carey said the addition of the council as a potential proponent was a major step forward. He said the business case study was expected to be completed by July 31.
Townsville Enterprise CEO Patricia O’callaghan will lead a tour of the regions, which will start in Charters Towers today and finish in Mount Isa.
“It is important we get this project moving and built as the entry project for an even greater vision for northern development,” Ms O’callaghan said.