Toowoomba to Warwick pipeline project pre-construction takes major leap forward

It’s the $300m water infrastructure project that’s caused mixed emotions for Southern Downs residents, now one step closer to construction with the state government predicting it will be operational in the next three years. Update here.

A major Darling Downs water infrastructure development has taken another leap forward as the search for a head contractor narrows.

An expression of interest process was held back in November 2023 for the more than $300m Toowoomba to Warwick pipeline set to deliver long term water security to the Southern Downs region.

The project, a partnership between the state government and Seqwater, is set to create more than 300 jobs for the surrounding communities during its construction, as short-listed construction companies are now tendering with further opportunities for local businesses expected.

State water minister Glenn Butcher looks at the corridor for the Toowoomba to Warwick pipeline, which is still under pre-works.

Water Minister Glenn Butcher said the pipeline project was proof of the Miles Labor government’s commitment to water security.

“While it’s great to see the dams at good levels, we know our rainfall has its ups and downs which is why we’re delivering this important project,” he said.

“I’m pleased to see progress on this important pipeline which is delivering long-term water security to Toowoomba and the Southern Downs, so critical for supporting the ongoing resilience, liveability and prosperity of this region.

“Importantly, the project will support more than 400 jobs during delivery, and we encourage local businesses to register their interest in the project with Seqwater.”

Queensland Member for Southern Downs James Lister. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Dan Peled

Southern Downs MP James Lister has previously voiced his concern about the projects exclusion of the Stanthorpe community, with the Granite Belt having suffered through multiple droughts.

“I won’t say no to any new water infrastructure, but it is a slap in the face to see this pipeline to Warwick prioritised when it was the town of Stanthorpe and its farmers which ran out of water for more than 12 months recently,” Mr Lister said.

The pipeline will carry water from Wivenhoe Dam to Toowoomba via existing water infrastructure, through to Warwick via the new 109km pipeline as a contingency supply for the Southern Downs.

Running primarily underground, the pipeline will begin transferring the water from existing water infrastructure in Highfields to the Warwick Reservoir near Leslie Dam.

On completion the project will see up to 7.3 megalitres of water transferred to Warwick a day when needed.

Permanent water supply will be facilitated to surrounding Toowoomba region communities of Cambooya, Greenmount, Nobby and Clifton.

The project is expected to be completed in early 2027, weather and construction conditions permitting.

Local contractors and suppliers are encouraged to register interest on the Seqwater website.

Originally published as Toowoomba to Warwick pipeline project pre-construction takes major leap forward