Tenders have been called to deliver the Quipolly Water Project (QWP), described as the Snowy Mountains Scheme-equivalent for the Liverpool Plains Shire.

Federal Member for New England Barnaby Joyce and State Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson joined Liverpool Plains Shire Council (LPSC) to mark the announcement.

LPSC Mayor Andrew Hope said tenders for the project will close on 30 October and councillors will decide on a preferred tender during December. 

“This is tremendous news for our community reaching this significant milestone on the QWP, the largest and most significant project the Shire has ever undertaken. For our community this project is akin to what the Snowy Mountains Scheme is at the National level,” Cr Hope said.  

Construction of the new Water Treatment Plant at Quipolly Dam will facilitate the replacement of existing aged and outdated water supply infrastructure. It will enhance water security during drought periods for the Werris Creek, Quirindi and Willow Tree water supplies.

Funding for the project included co-contributions of $10 million each from the state and federal governments with the balance provided by council. 

Mr Joyce said the Quipolly project complemented new and upgraded water infrastructure being delivered across the New England.

“Dungowan Dam, Chaffey Dam, Mole River Dam, Oven Mountain Pumped Storage and now Quipolly Water Project, this is not just a plan for Werris Creek and the Liverpool Plains but part of a program for the whole of the New England,” Mr Joyce said.

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson said the Quipolly Water Project will be a game changer for local communities and will provide Werris Creek with a secure water supply for the future. 

“Apart from the crucial role of improving water security for Werris Creek, this project will deliver much needed economic benefit so greatly need at this time, so let’s get on with the job,” Mr Anderson said.

Council anticipated the Quipolly Water Project would be completed by December 2022.

(ENDS)