Planning and site investigations are progressing on two proposed weir projects in regional Queensland, Australia, as part of state government efforts to improve water reliability and support agricultural production.
Early works are underway for the proposed Cooranga Weir on the Boyne River and Barlil Weir on Barambah Creek, following recommendations from the Bundaberg and Burnett Regional Water Assessment. The projects are being developed by Sunwater, Queensland’s bulk water infrastructure manager.
The Queensland Government has allocated A$29.7m for planning and development activities across both proposals. Final planning documentation and updated cost estimates are expected to be submitted to government in 2026 to inform future investment decisions.
The proposed Cooranga Weir would be located about 50km downstream of Boondooma Dam within the Boyne River and Tarong water supply scheme. Current planning outlines a structure approximately 10m high and 180m wide, with an estimated storage capacity of 2,500 megalitres.
The Barlil Weir is proposed around eight kilometres northwest of Murgon on Barambah Creek, within the Barker–Barambah water supply scheme. The structure is expected to be between six and seven metres high and around 90m wide, with a storage capacity of approximately 1,500 megalitres.
Sunwater has commenced a range of field investigations at both sites. These include ecological assessments, bathymetric surveys, aerial LiDAR mapping, geotechnical investigations and cultural heritage assessments conducted in consultation with Traditional Owner groups. The studies will inform design development and support environmental and planning approval processes.
Stakeholder engagement has also begun, with local irrigators participating in information sessions covering water modelling, reliability outcomes and pricing considerations. Further engagement activities are planned as technical investigations continue.
Neither project has yet received final approval, and construction timelines have not been confirmed. Government consideration of the projects will depend on the outcomes of ongoing technical, environmental and economic assessments.
