A message from Mayor Glen Hartwig - Wednesday, 1st December 2021

A Message from the Mayor

Water is an important topic of conversation right now as our region continues to experience record levels of growth.

One such project that directly relates to our region’s water security is the proposed pumped hydro energy storage facility at Borumba Dam.

For those that aren’t aware, the Queensland Government is investing $22 million to investigate the potential for a pumped hydro energy storage facility to be constructed at Borumba Dam.

Borumba Dam has been identified as a potential site, following an assessment of multiple locations throughout Queensland.

A project of this scale could bring a number of exciting economic and environmental benefits to our region.

In terms of the environmental benefits, hydropower is one of the most advanced renewable energy sources because it generates low greenhouse gas emissions and is very cheap to operate.

With any new industry comes the possibility for an influx of new jobs.

A number of our smaller townships that are close in proximity to Borumba Dam, such as Kandanga, Imbil and Amamoor, have the potential to grow and could bring a number of exciting business opportunities to the region.

Part of the Queensland Government’s study will be to assess any probable environmental impacts of the project, and they will be working alongside key stakeholders such as First Nations and conservation groups to ensure the protection of our environment, including our national parks and water quality.

There is still a lot of work that needs to be to done to ensure this project is the right fit for our region, which is why the Queensland Government are calling on you to have your say at the following drop-in sessions.

• Today, Wednesday 1 December 2021, anytime between 3pm to 7pm

Mary Valley Memorial Hall (Imbil RSL Hall), 127 Yabba Road, Imbil

• Thursday 2 December 2021, anytime between 3pm to 7pm

Gympie RSL, 217 Mary Street, Gympie

It’s important to have your say and ensure that this project is planned well so the growth is measured and controlled.

For more information about this project, visit Borumba Dam Pumped Hydro: detailed design and cost analysis | Department of Energy and Public Works (epw.qld.gov.au) or to find out more about the community drop-in sessions, visit, Borumba Pumped Hydro Project | Powerlink

Mayor Glen Hartwig