In a groundbreaking moment for Australia’s water landscape, the ambitious Rookwood Weir project, the largest of its kind since the aftermath of World War II, has reached the finish line. The $568.9 million venture, nestled west of Rockhampton, promises an annual yield of 86,000 megalitres, heralding a substantial boost for economic growth, agricultural production, and industry in Central Queensland.
The completion of Rookwood Weir signifies a pivotal chapter, ranking it as Australia’s grandest weir since World War II. Moreover, it stands as the most extensive water infrastructure project since the completion of the Wyaralong Dam in 2011.
Federal Environment and Water Maestro, Tanya Plibersek, joined forces with Queensland’s Money Whiz Cameron Dick and Water Guru Glenn Butcher. Alongside local Queensland MPs and distinguished guests, they congregated on-site to immortalize this feat.
Minister Cameron Dick stressed the project’s economic ripple effect. Furthermore, he declared, “This game-changing infrastructure will shake up Central Queensland’s economy.” Additionally, it will bestow water security, forge lasting local jobs, and elevate the prosperity of the entire region.
In late 2020, the project’s initiation injected over $270 million into Central Queensland’s economy, creating more than 350 jobs. Moreover, the construction site nurtured over 30 apprentices, sowing seeds for a skilled workforce in Queensland’s future water endeavours.
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Rookwood Weir Triumph: Transforming Central Queensland with Water Security, Jobs, and Cultural Enrichment
Rookwood Weir stands tall as the guardian of water resources for Central Queensland, orchestrating a symphony of economic growth. A substantial 36,000 megalitres from the weir are earmarked for agricultural use, enabling local businesses and large enterprises to expand.
Minister for Water, Glenn Butcher, echoed the importance of the achievement, affirming, “Rookwood Weir is a testament to the Palaszczuk Government’s loyalty to Central Queensland. We walk the talk, investing in regional water infrastructure.”
With long-term benefits anticipated, Rookwood Weir’s completion promises water security and job creation, with the first drop expected in 2024.
Furthermore, the project unfurled a tapestry of supporting initiatives, including facelifts for infrastructure hotspots. For instance, the Capricorn Highway intersection, Thirsty Creek Road, Riverslea Bridge, Hanrahans Crossing, Foleyvale Bridge, and a spanking new fishway at the Fitzroy River Barrage were all part of this comprehensive effort.
Rookwood Weir waltzed into reality through an Alliance featuring Sunwater, construction wizards ACCIONA and McCosker Contracting, and design maestro GHD.
Expressing gratitude, Sunwater CEO, Glenn Stockton, acknowledged hurdles during construction. “A shout-out goes to Darumbal peoples and the neighbouring Jetimala and Gaangulu Nation peoples,” he expressed.
He praised local residents and the broader Central Queensland community for their positive contributions to this vital regional asset.
Beyond the bricks and mortar, the weir holds cultural significance. In April 2022, an Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) was established between the Queensland Government and Darumbal People Aboriginal Corporation RNTBC. The Darumbal People, as the Guardians of the land, assigned a traditional language name to the weir – Rookwood Weir (Managibei Gamu), translating to ‘keeping-saving’ water. This agreement ensures perpetual water allocation from the weir for the Darumbal People, supporting ongoing cultural and economic development prospects.
As Rookwood Weir takes centre stage, it quenches thirst and becomes a beacon of hope, signalling prosperity and sustainability.
