Another big step for Big Rocks Weir

The terms of reference for the $60 million Big Rocks Weir project’s environmental impact statement have been released.

Mayor Frank Beveridge said the latest announcement is exciting news for the project and the Region.

“We have been advocating for this project for a long time and it is great to see another step being made with this region-changing project,” he said.

“The proposed 10,000 megalitre weir will have the potential to open up high-value agriculture opportunities, establish water security for Charters Towers, and generate more jobs.

“The terms of reference are an important part of shaping the environmental impact statement for the project,” Mayor Beveridge said.

The draft terms of reference were released for public comment in April by the Coordinator-General with 21 individuals, groups, government agencies, and councils providing responses.

Mayor Beveridge said the Council will now address these issues to prepare the draft environmental impact statement.

“We will carefully consider each of the issues raised because it's important Big Rocks Weir stacks up financially and environmentally,” he said.

The draft environmental impact statement will be open for public submission once completed.

Council estimates the project would have a capital cost of $60 million and create 172 full-time equivalent jobs during construction.

It is expected construction of Big Rocks Weir will start in 2023, subject to approvals.