Early works and pre-construction activities for the Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline (FGP) are on-track with major construction works around the corner.
The 117-kilometre pipeline, which will be owned and managed by Gladstone Area Water Board (GAWB) and constructed by McConnell Dowell BMD Joint Venture (MBJV), is currently undergoing early site works and construction is expected to begin in late August 2023.
Procurement of materials and supplies is well underway, with $170 million worth of supplier agreements committed and a further $15 million pending.
GAWB Chief Executive Officer, Darren Barlow, said that GAWB is committed to creating a lasting legacy in Central Queensland through local supply contracts, job opportunities, upskilling, and water security.
“Our delivery team has set-up a number of targets to ensure Central Queenslanders remain front of mind as we deliver this key piece of water infrastructure,” Mr Barlow said.
“Our targets include procurement of local content, creating employment opportunities for First Nations Australians and further industry engagement, a diverse and inclusive workforce, and facilitation of traineeships and apprenticeships.
“As of 30 June 2023, I am delighted our figures show we are on track to meet these targets, which is a testament to the vision and hard work of both GAWB and our contractor MBJV.”
Pre-site works are well underway to construct a laydown yard, including a vehicle washdown area and a vehicle workshop for minor repairs, and a temporary workers accommodation camp in Gracemere, Rockhampton.
“While we expect around 60 per cent of the construction workforce to be from the local area, we want to avoid additional pressure on the already stressed local rental market, which is why we’re constructing a workers accommodation camp to house workers from the region,” Mr Barlow said.
“So far, we have received more than 160 Mild Steel Cement Lined pipes to the laydown yard in Gracemere, with a further 1000 pipes manufactured and ready for delivery.
“30 per cent of the High-Density Polyethylene pipe needed for the pipeline has been manufactured in Toowoomba, Queensland and is also ready to be delivered. “I’m delighted to see the progress both GAWB and the MBJV are making, and we are on-track for the start of major construction activities in August.”
The Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline is expected to be delivered in 2026, weather and construction conditions permitting, creating more than 400 jobs at the peak of construction.
Once constructed, the pipeline and associated infrastructure will be owned and managed by Gladstone Area Water Board.
