Queensland faces soaring costs for Barlil and Cooranga weir projects amid environmental concerns

During budget estimates, Shadow Water Minister Nikki Boyd pressed Sunwater interim CEO David Hourigan on the sharply rising price tags for the Barlil and Cooranga weirs, while Water Minister Ann Leahy said design work is underway.

At a budget estimates session, Shadow Water Minister Nikki Boyd challenged Sunwater’s interim chief executive David Hourigan over leaked cost estimates that suggest the Cooranga Weir could cost $259 million and the Barlil Weir $113 million, a substantial increase from the $120 million originally pledged. Hourigan, who has been in the role for under two months, said the precise figures are not yet final and that comprehensive project assessment reports are expected in August, after which the Queensland government will decide whether to proceed.

Water Minister Ann Leahy noted that design work for the North Burnett weir is progressing and that $20.7 million has been set aside for planning both weirs. Environmental reports from Sunwater and consulting firm Onterris indicate the dams could permanently alter habitats for the endangered Australian lungfish and pose risks to koalas, gliders, flying-foxes and the white-throated snapping turtle. Sunwater has referred the scheme to the Australian Government under the EPBC Act for approval, and public comment closed on July 16.