The case for the construction of the proposed Big Rocks Weir has advanced, with the Charters Towers Regional Council nominating as the proponent if the project proceeds.  

The project comes under a $54 million business case being managed Townsville Enterprise that includes the start of investigations into the broader Hells Gates Dam project. 

Hells Gates and Big Rocks Weir Project leadership group chair Joe Carey said that work was on time and on budget, describing the nomination of the Charters Towers Council as the proponent as a big step forward.

“I’m delighted to say the project team led by Townsville Enterprise, including GHD and KPMG, is on track to complete the draft business case for Big Rocks Weir by 31 July, 2020,” Mr Carey said.

“The consultants have completed the key economic assessments and the evaluation of social impacts, together with a range of engineering and technical studies to help prove up the dam’s potential. 

“Importantly, the work done so far shows a positive outlook for the project with a solid potential return on investment. “

Big Rocks Weir would establish a new water source for Charters Towers, providing additional supply security for irrigated agriculture and supporting the future growth of industry.

Charters Towers Regional Council Mayor Frank Beveridge said the council was excited about the opportunity for major agricultural expansion in the North and the local jobs it would deliver.

“With appropriate Federal and State government funding support, a future Big Rocks Weir can add substantial value to the region’s agricultural production, including more on-farm employment and capital works, as well as food processing and handling services to supply domestic and export markets,” he said.

“The studies also show the great potential of the weir for long-term water security for the people of Charters Towers, as well as its recreational and lifestyle benefits.”

An application has been made for Big Rocks Weir to gain Coordinated Project Status by the Queensland Coordinator General.