The Queensland Government has announced an $11 million investment in a new gas pipeline to supply householders and industry in the Bundaberg region.
QLD Premier Campbell Newman said the 24.7 kilometre Bundaberg Gas Pipeline could create around 100 new full-time jobs and 600 indirect jobs by attracting new industry and development to the region.
“This pipeline will encourage new businesses and industries to locate in the Bundaberg region and allow existing businesses to expand.
“It will provide a reliable and essential energy supply for industrial parks and residential developments along its route and feed into local business confidence.
“We look forward to working with the Bundaberg Regional Council to ensure this critical piece of infrastructure meets local needs.”
The new gas pipeline will begin at the existing Wide Bay pipeline, west of Bundaberg, (Kensington Gate Station) and extend through to the Port of Bundaberg.
LNP Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said the new infrastructure would provide a much-needed boost to a community hard hit by floods in 2013.
“The people of this region have spent the past 18 months rebuilding their homes, businesses and local infrastructure,” Mr Bennett said.
“Today’s announcement shows the confidence our State Government has in the community’s ability to bounce back and our determination to supercharge regional economies.
“It means more jobs for locals and more opportunities for local businesses to grow.”
LNP Member for Bundaberg Jack Dempsey said the pipeline project would secure a strong, stable future for Bundaberg businesses.
“This is generational funding that will benefit current businesses and draw new operations to the area,” Mr Dempsey said.
“It will bring stability and confidence to the area, and provide much-needed local employment.”
Mayor of the Bundaberg Regional Council Cr Mal Forman said the pipeline was the driver to kick start significant economic activity at the Port of Bundaberg.
“This is an exciting announcement for the Bundaberg region and will help deliver increased business and development opportunities,” Cr Forman said.
“This project again demonstrates the great partnership that the Council and the Queensland Government enjoy.”
CEO of Bundaberg Brewed Drinks John McLean said the pipeline would be a step in the right direction for his business.
“This region has been really challenged over the past couple of years with the impact from the floods,” Mr McLean said.
“So it’s great to see some positive investments occurring that will assist in accelerating job growth and providing a boost to business confidence.”
The Queensland Government, through Economic Development Queensland, will fund the Bundaberg Gas Pipeline and be responsible for the competitive procurement process.
