The project involves the construction of 136 kilometres of large diameter buried pipeline that will carry around 45,000 megalitres of water each year from the proposed Connors River Dam to the Bowen Basin and surrounding areas.

When completed, the project will help meet the increasing water supply reliability and security needs of the region’s resource sector.

John Holland said it expected to be confirmed as the principal contractor when the final investment decision was made by SunWater’s board – believed to be in March next year.

The pipeline is part of the Connors River Dam and Pipeline Project which will supply water to the existing and new coal mines being established in the Bowen basin and surrounding area.

John Holland northern region general manager Gavin Stubbs said the company would work alongside SunWater over the next six months to finalise design and approvals for the project.

“The project will involve the construction of one reservoir, several bored and open creek crossings, several watercourse and road crossings and storages,” Stubbs said. “The delivery of a construction camp and associated roadworks are also included in the project scope.”