A team of dedicated professionals is actively supporting long-term water security for the Gladstone region through the Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline (FGP) and deserves recognition. Introducing John Carolan, the Area Manager for the FGP. John oversees the entire pipeline construction process, from managing the workforce to ensuring the project stays on schedule and within budget. This includes coordinating between different teams, subcontractors, and stakeholders to keep everything moving smoothly.
Can you tell us a little about your role on the Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline and what excites you most about being part of this team?
As the Area Manager for the FGP, my role involves overseeing the entire pipeline construction process, from managing the workforce to ensuring the project stays on schedule and within budget. This includes coordinating between different teams, subcontractors, and stakeholders to keep everything moving smoothly.
I work with a great bunch of very talented people who are all committed to securing a secondary water source for Gladstone’s communities, businesses and industries.
How do you think the local community will benefit from the pipeline in the long run?
In the short term, the benefits for locals involved in this project are significant. Local workers and subcontractors currently have direct access to employment opportunities, which will not only provide immediate income but also contribute to the development of their skill sets.
A key focus of this project is the emphasis on training and upskilling young locals, which will empower them with valuable skills that can be applied across various sectors in the future.
Looking ahead to the long-term effects, the project is expected to catalyse the growth of local industries and businesses. The secure supply of water supports the stability and growth of the local economy, providing both present and future generations with the opportunity to thrive.
What do you enjoy most about working in the Gladstone region and being involved in a project that supports water security and local infrastructure?
It is great to see a powerhouse of industry like Gladstone powering ahead. The strategic investments in infrastructure and workforce development are setting the stage for Gladstone to not only maintain its status as an industrial hub but also to pave the way for future growth in key sectors such as manufacturing, energy, and resources.
Gladstone’s proactive approach to attracting investment, fostering partnerships, and prioritising innovation ensures that it is not just keeping pace with the evolving industrial landscape, but is poised to lead the way.
What is one thing that people might not know about the pipeline and find interesting?
There are almost 10,000 pieces of pipe connected together between the Laurel Bank intake on the Fitzroy River and the connection to GAWB’s network in Yarwun.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone interested in working on similar projects in the future?
Planning works well in advance is critical to the success of any project. If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.
Want to know more about the project? Visit the Fitzroy to Gladstone Pipeline page.
For information about current job opportunities at Gladstone Area Water Board, visit our careers page.
