Former lord Brisbane mayor Graham Quirk has taken on the chairman role to help deliver an additional water source to the Lockyer and Somerset

Initially, Graham Quirk turned down the role, but the potentials involved in the process changed his mind.

Lockyer and Somerset Water Collaborative chairperson Graham Quirk (second left) with members Greg Banff, Brock Sutton and Gordon Van der Est. PHOTO: Ali Kuchel

A project that will “make a difference” and create extra jobs in the Lockyer has been taken on by former Lord Brisbane mayor Graham Quirk.

Mr Quirk, who held the title of lord mayor for eight years, is the newly appointed Lockyer and Somerset Water Collaborative chairman who will lead the group to becoming an entity.

Initially, Mr Quirk turned down the role due to other commitments, but the more he researched the need for additional water in the Lockyer and Somerset, the interest grew.

“For me, this is about making a real difference about the tremendous productivity benefits that can flow from this and the extra jobs it can create,” Mr Quirk said.

Lockyer and Somerset Water Collaborative chairman Graham Quirk. PHOTO: Ali Kuchel

“It’s an economic development project and that is my passion in life.”

Mr Quirk takes the reins from outgoing chairman Steven Robinson, who left a substantial, well-developed business case for the collaborative.

His first task will be transitioning the collaborative into an entity, then convincing the government to invest in the important project.

“Obviously, for the irrigators and growers it’s going to be a tremendous project,” he said.

“It provides them with an opportunity, but also provides Australia with a great opportunity and that’s what really excites me.

“The fact the irrigators and growers are prepared to put their hands in their pockets and support it – that’s an indication to me we have something real here.”

He hoped his relationships from local government would be an asset in bringing a sustainable water source to the region.

“My first engagement with this district was with the resilient river program in the council of mayors,” he said.

“I’m no stranger to this area, but its always wonderful to be back.”

Mr Quirk is contracted to the position until July next year.

Originally published as Former lord Brisbane mayor Graham Quirk has taken on the chairman role to help deliver an additional water source to the Lockyer and Somerset