Unitywater has commenced a $3.9 million renewal project on its five-million-litre Peregian Beach reservoir, a key storage asset supplying water to around 2,000 properties in Peregian Beach and Marcus Beach.
Constructed in 1981, the concrete reservoir is undergoing routine structural maintenance, including a full roof replacement with new framing and sheeting. The upgrade also incorporates a revised pitched roof design to improve resilience and protect water quality by preventing external contaminants from entering the stored supply. Internal repairs will extend the service life of the structure, securing its role in the local network for at least the next four decades.
Mike Basterfield, Unitywater’s Executive Manager Sustainable Infrastructure Solutions, said the renewal reflects the utility’s broader strategy. “The reservoir maintenance work involves a roof replacement, including framing and sheeting, and an amendment to the roof design to facilitate a pitched roof, as well as internal repair works,” he said.
“The works will help ensure water quality by keeping any potential contaminants out of the reservoir and will increase the longevity of the asset to continue supplying water for this community for the next 40-plus years.”
The maintenance project is part of Unitywater’s $400 million, five-year replacements and renewals program, focused on sustaining safe and reliable water and wastewater services across South East Queensland.
From a hydraulic perspective, managing continuity of supply during the project is a priority. While the Peregian Beach reservoir is offline, Unitywater is drawing on network redundancy, with neighbouring storages and pumping stations configured to maintain pressure and meet peak demand. Careful sequencing of pump operations allows the system to balance flows and avoid stressing adjacent assets, while still ensuring consistent supply to the community.
The reservoir, located along David Low Way, is also recognised for its mural, first commissioned in 2015 after community consultation. The artwork, depicting native melaleuca trees by Peregian Beach artist Colin Passmore, will be repainted once construction is complete. A new anti-graffiti coating will also be applied to extend its durability.
Noosa Council Mayor Frank Wilkie said the renewal demonstrates the dual importance of utility infrastructure. “It’s great to see Unitywater investing in the maintenance of this iconic water reservoir and large public art piece, which has become a prominent Peregian landmark,” he said.
The project is expected to take around five months to complete.
