A series of new pump stations are being built as part of the Queensland Government’s plan to revitalise an island in the southern Great Barrier Reef.
Two duplex and 10 simplex sewer pump stations (SPS) are being built to support businesses and residences situated in the northern stretches of Fisherman’s Beach, with new residential SPS units to replace existing septic systems.
One main SPS will connect with a new 100-kilolitre-per-day membrane bioreactor sewage treatment plant at Great Keppel Island, set to deliver Class A+ recycled water for non-drinking uses.
The plant will be designed to withstand extreme weather, including potential cyclones, and considers corrosion and environmental factors related to salt water, such as UV, temperature, soil movement, humidity and rainfall.
The contract for the new sewage treatment plant was awarded to RSK business Pensar, with construction commencing in August 2025. The plant is expected to be fully operational in June 2026.
“This project is a great example of how innovative engineering can provide long-term benefits for both the community and the environment,” Pensar chief operating officer David Brown said.
“Extensive field sampling and testing were undertaken to inform a robust process design that was developed and completed in-house by Pensar’s process engineering team.”
A range of stakeholders have been engaged for the project as the delivery team look to ensure the best interests of the broader Great Keppel Island are prioritised.
“The environmentally sensitive nature of the location, adjacent to the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, has required detailed planning and strict adherence to statutory requirements,” Brown said.
“All materials and equipment had to be transported via private barge and unloaded during high tide windows, requiring precise logistical planning and coordination.”
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