$5.7 million pump station upgrade underway on Magnetic Island
Date published: 30 October 2026
A $5.7 million upgrade to Magnetic Island's Bolger Bay pump station will get underway this week, strengthening the reliability of the island's water supply.
Mayor Nick Dametto said the upgrades were essential to the liveability of the island community.
“The existing pump station is approaching the end of its serviceable life and requires significant upgrades to meet future needs of Magnetic Island,” Cr Dametto said.
“Providing reliable water infrastructure is a core responsibility of Council and exactly the type of essential service our Back to Basics approach is focused on delivering.”
The works will take around 12 months, and include removing the old balancing tank, constructing a new dosing facility, upgrading the pump station and associated infrastructure and restoring the site following commissioning.
A generator will also be installed to keep the pump station operational during power outages, which will improve the island’s resilience during the high-risk weather season.
Protecting the island’s natural environment has been a key consideration in planning the project, with construction activities carefully managed to minimise impacts on neighbouring national park areas.
Cr Dametto said the project would provide certainty that infrastructure supporting homes, businesses and tourism on Magnetic Island would continue to meet demand into the future.
“Magnetic Island’s freshwater supply is pumped from the mainland,” Mayor Dametto said.
“The island was first connected to Townsville’s water supply in the 1970s. Council then upgraded the pipeline in the 2000s, and this pump station upgrade will help ensure the network continues to meet the island’s needs for at least another 25 years.
"The project team will also work closely with residents throughout construction to minimise disruption and provide advance notice of any works that may impact water supply.
"The long-term outcome will be a stronger, more resilient water network that supports liveability and the lifestyle Magnetic Island is known for.”
For more information, visit Bolger Bay Pump Station Upgrade.
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