Unitywater has awarded the contract for one of its largest infrastructure projects, which includes the installation of a new wastewater pump station that will service the Aura community on the Sunshine Coast.
The program will also deliver an essential new water network for Harmony, including a new water reservoir at Tanawha and installation of 2.6km of new water pipeline.
McConnell Dowell has been assigned the contract for the project, with initial site works scheduled to begin in April 2023 and wrap up by early 2026.
Unitywater Executive Manager Sustainable Infrastructure Solutions, Daniel Lambert, said with projections of 69,000 residents in Aura by 2056 and 20,000 residents in Harmony by 2026, the program of works will ensure that Unitywater meets the future needs of these communities and contribute to the liveability of the region.
“Our Aura water project will include the construction of a new water reservoir and 12km of pipeline to connect to the Ewen Maddock Water Treatment Plant, providing a new water network for Aura to meet future demand,” Mr Lambert said.
“The wastewater project will include the installation of a new wastewater pump station and 12.5kms of new pipeline to transfer wastewater to our Kawana Wastewater Treatment Plant.”
Mr Lambert said the program is set to deliver significant benefits to the growing region.
“We’re committed to delivering sustainable and reliable infrastructure that will improve the network’s overall reliability, ensuring that we will meet water and wastewater demand for our customers now and in the future,” Mr Lambert said.
“With a focus on sustainability, local workforce participation, and safe and reliable water and wastewater services, the program is a critical investment in the future of the Sunshine Coast.”
Planning for growth and change within the region has also meant protecting the natural and cultural environment in the area.
“We have explored alternative alignments and ways to construct the new infrastructure so that we can minimise our footprint on natural assets and protect the site’s cultural heritage.
“This has included working closely with Kabi Kabi representatives to select an alignment that best protects the environment, as well as using alternative construction methods such as underground drilling to protect native habitats and areas of cultural significance.”
