Aging critical infrastructure
Key assets within the Gympie water supply system are approaching the end of their operational life. The Jones Hill Water Treatment Plant, which supplies the majority of the region’s drinking water, requires upgrades to manage emerging asset risks and support its ongoing reliability. Several smaller treatment plants in the Mary Valley are experiencing process and equipment reliability challenges, which can affect operational flexibility and long-term service reliability
Future population and economic growth
The Gympie region is expected to continue growing over the coming decades. Continued investment will be needed to keep the water supply system reliable, address process and equipment issues, and support future demand and service expectations. Upgrading infrastructure now will help ensure the region has the capacity needed to support communities, local industry and future growth.
Improving system resilience
The current network relies on several small, standalone treatment plants, which increases operational complexity and limits its flexibility during outages, drought and extreme weather events. A more connected system will improve reliability, strengthen resilience and reduce long-term operating costs.