Preparatory work has started on the $19.8 million Bundaberg Port Gas Pipeline, with construction to start after Easter.
Minister for State Development and Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dr Anthony Lynham said the 28.5 kilometre pipeline project would generate up to 15 local construction jobs.
“It is great to be able to advise the House that preparatory work has started on the $19.8 million Bundaberg Port Gas Pipeline,” he told Parliament today.
“The project represents a significant investment in the region, with a total of 45 jobs created during construction.”
Dr Lynham said the pipeline would also support the development of the new $70 million Knauf Plasterboard facility.
“The Knauf project alone is expected to bring 200 construction jobs and 40 operational jobs to Bundaberg,” he said.
Member for Bundaberg Leanne Donaldson said the Bundaberg Port Gas Pipeline represented a significant investment in the Wide Bay-Burnett region.
“In coming weeks, construction will get underway on the gas pipeline, which will bring an accessible supply of energy to the region and be a catalyst for economic development,” she said.
“The Zinfra Group, who are undertaking construction, are using Bundaberg resources and negotiating agreements with local contractors for trades and services.”
Ms Donaldson said the Australian Gas Networks pipeline was expected to be fully commissioned and operational in early 2017, thanks to the Palaszczuk Government last year increasing state funding for the pipeline from $11 million to almost $20 million.
“The Palaszczuk Government increased funding for this project,” she said.
“I am also proud to be part of a government that is exploring how to create a State Development Area around the Port of Bundaberg.
“It’s Queensland’s only other east coast trading port outside the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area and the Palaszczuk Government is working with regional councils to explore its potential as an economic hub.”
