Construction of new reservoir at Emu Park to begin soon

A major project to increase reliability of the water supply for the southern end of the Capricorn Coast is due to kick off next month with the construction of a new concrete reservoir at Emu Park.

The contract for the $2.86 million four megalitre reservoir, awarded to Hornick Constructions Pty Ltd, will ensure the townships of Emu Park, Zilzie and Keppel Sands have sufficient and reliable potable water supplies into the future.

The project received $2 million from the Local Economic Recovery Program which is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments through Category D of the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), with Livingstone Shire Council funding the remainder.

Mayor Andy Ireland said the vital infrastructure will help accommodate future population growth.

“The region is growing and we need to ensure that our residents have access to a safe and reliable potable water network. It will also provide additional firefighting capability for these townships,” Mayor Ireland said.

“I’d like to sincerely thank the Queensland and Australian Governments for the significant funding contribution towards this important project which has been on the cards for years.”

Councillor Andrea Friend, Portfolio Holder of Water, Waste Management and Environment, said the new reservoir was a necessity.

“It’s important these communities are not left vulnerable to losing water supply in peak periods such as summer bushfires,” Cr Friend said.

Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry said the new reservoir will help local communities recover, enable infrastructure and support community connection following the devastating 2019-20 fires.

“The project will provide a long lasting and tangible benefit for fire affected communities and will reduce the risk of water shortages,” Ms Landry said.

“I am pleased the Australian Government was able to provide funding for the Emu Park Reservoir and I would like to acknowledge Livingstone Shire Council for their proactive planning that is being implemented across the region.”

Member for Keppel Brittany Lauga said the Local Economic Recovery Program was setup following the devastating 2019 Queensland Bushfires to support projects that contribute to local and regional economic and social recovery.

“Projects such as the Emu Park reservoir deliver long-term resilience, while also helping to create local jobs,” Ms Lauga said.

“The Queensland Government is proud to do its part to support the Livingstone Shire community on their recovery journey.

“We are pleased to provide this funding which we know will provide a welcome boost to the regional economy.”