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Ross River Dam to Douglas Water Treatment Plant Pipeline Renewal

Investment	$60 million
Jobs	150
Goal	4. A sustainable destination that embraces and participates in the arts, sports and events and recreational activities.
Strategic Purpose	A water security initiative renewing the pipeline connecting Ross River Dam and the Douglas Water Treatment Plant, which will increase the resilience of this key asset.
Status	Underway

Project Overview

Townsville City Council with the support of the Queensland Government has committed $60 million to the renewal of the Ross River Dam to Douglas Water Treatment Plant (WTP) pipeline.

This key water infrastructure asset is essential in Townsville’s water supply, providing approximately 85% of the city’s water. The existing pipeline runs adjacent to Riverway Drive and crosses Ross River just prior to the treatment plant. It experienced an unexpected failure in December 2020 resulting in a temporary disruption to water supply.

The Ross River Dam to Douglas WTP Pipeline Renewal project will increase the resilience of this key asset, further enhancing Townsville’s water security now and into the future.

The new 9.5km pipeline will cross Ross River closer to the dam and run parallel to the river through the Department of Defence’s Mount Stuart Training Area before connecting to the Douglas Water Treatment Plant.

This project is part of Council’s investment in water infrastructure and services, continuing our strong focus on water security and ensuring Townsville’s water supply for decades to come to support future development of the city.

Construction is continuing on the 9.5km pipeline, which runs adjacent to Riverway Drive, across the Ross River and through the Mount Stuart Training Area. The Ross River crossing is 95% complete, and trench excavation and pipelaying has resumed after some wet season delays. Approximately 4.5km of the 1.29m diameter pipe has been installed across two construction packages.

The existing pipeline is a key infrastructure asset in Townsville’s water supply, providing 85% of the city’s water. Council is investing to increase the resilience of this crucial asset and enhance Townsville’s water security.

The new Ross River Dam to Douglas WTP Pipeline is planned to be in operation Mid 2024.

Ross River Crossing Scour Protection Works

Creek Concrete Encasement at Ch. 5.5km along the 9.4km pipeline

Environmental Approval Documents

Environmental approval documents relating to Council’s projects are available on the Projects - Environmental Approval Documents page.

Online Industry Briefing

Council hosted an online briefing for contractors, suppliers and consultants in September 2021.

The first of several tender packages for businesses to participate in the Ross River Dam to Douglas Water Treatment Plant Pipeline Renewal project have been issued.

Council awarded a contract to Steel Mains to supply and deliver the pipe and fittings for the project. This contract will enable construction to start this year, which will enhance Townsville’s water security.

Council is committed to enhancing the city’s water security as Townsville’s population continues to grow.