Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall with Moree Plains Shire Council Executive Projects Manager at the Boggabilla end of the pipeline.
Thursday, 29 March 2018
Inlet pontoon installation now complete
WORKS to secure Boggabilla and Toomelah’s water supply have hit a major milestone, with a floating inlet pontoon now installed on the 15 kilometre bi-directional pipeline.
Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall this week met with Moree Plains Shire Council Executive Projects Manager John Carleton to inspect progress on the $4.6 million major infrastructure project, which has been funded by the NSW Government funding.
“It’s been almost a year since the sod was turned on the Boggabilla to Toomelah pipeline, and with the inlets now being installed, the end is in sight,” Mr Marshall said.
“This ingenious floating pontoon will take water flows from the surface of the water, avoiding the low-lying muck that degrades water quality and can clog up the pipeline.
“Engineers had to wait until the river level dropped to begin installation of this floating pylon, and recent weather has provided perfect conditions for these works to begin.
“With this new pontoon installed in just a day, crews will now build pivot points for the inlet and begin installation of the access platform on Tuesday next week.
“These finishing touches are expected to be completed in the coming weeks, ensuring residents of Boggabilla and Toomelah needn’t worry about water security next summer.”
Mr Marshall said the pipeline was an important asset for residents in the border towns, who had long struggled with poor water quality and availability in drier times.
“This massive pipeline project will allow each township to draw upon water from the other, allowing reliable and high-quality water even when the Macintyre River is too low for decent flows.
“Rural residents must be able to trust their taps will deliver tasty water on demand, no matter how low river levels may become. This project will deliver much needed peace of mind to the people of Boggabilla and Toomelah.”