Public input sought for Bundaberg Burnett water projects

Proposed options for better water resources across Bundaberg and the Burnett include a Bundaberg Irrigation Network Capacity Upgrade, and upgrades to Cooranga Weir, Barlil Weir and Jones Weir. Have your say:

The public will have a chance to have their say on future water projects across the Bundaberg Burnett region in the hopes of unlocking more water for farmers and residents.

The public will have a chance to have their say on future water projects across the Bundaberg Burnett region in the hopes of unlocking more water for farmers and residents.

The Bundaberg Burnett Regional Water Assessment project has been released for public consultation, after months of analysis and consultation.

The draft assessment, which has been developed by Sunwater on behalf of the Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water sets out plans to maximise water supply to the region through new and improved infrastructure.

Future options for greater water resources include the Bundaberg Irrigation Network Capacity Upgrade alongside improving and developing the Cooranga Weir, the Barlil Weir and the Jones Weir.

The assessment has been developed with local councils including the Bundaberg Council, the North Burnett Council, the South Burnett Council and the Cherbourg Aboriginal Council.

Water Minister Glenn Butcher said planning works such as the assessment were vital to the Bundaberg Burnett, and the view of those living in the region were necessary to ensure water was being allocated where it was needed most.

“The next important step is to hear the views of farmers, business owners and residents on the proposed options and what they think will best support future growth opportunities,” he said.

Water Minister Glenn Butcher. Picture: Dan Peled / NCA NewsWire

“By engaging with key stakeholders, the community and experts, we are working together to plan for the future needs of our regions.”

In their call for community engagement Sunwater said the economic growth of the Bundaberg Burnett was linked to investments in water.

“The Bundaberg and Burnett region’s economic prosperity is strongly linked to the agricultural industry.

“That’s why it’s important to have a plan for ensuring that water supply and security continues to support agricultural development, as well as future urban and industrial sector growth.”

Labor Bundaberg MP Tom Smith welcomed the consultation phase.

“Regional Queenslanders know the importance of water security for our communities,” he said.

“It is critical for the growth of our towns, the strengthening of agricultural and horticultural advancement, and for greater industry development.”

Public consultation details will be available on the Sunwater website and feedback on the draft assessment is being sought by Thursday, November 2, 2023.