Rockhampton Regional Council is investing $14.82 million over the next five years to maintain and improve the region's water future, delivering critical upgrades and refurbishment works to the Fitzroy River Barrage, the city's primary water source.
The significant investment, included in Council's budget, will ensure the region's most important water infrastructure continues to supply homes, businesses, industry and agriculture as the Rockhampton Region continues to grow.
Built in 1970, the Fitzroy River Barrage is the sole raw water storage for Rockhampton and Gracemere and holds 81,300 megalitres of water.
The Barrage consists of 18 remotely operated vertical lift gates that automatically respond to rising river levels. It also has fish ladders on both northern and southern banks, with an estimated 500,000 fish using the structures each year to move through the river system.
The $14.82 million Barrage Refurbishment Program will deliver eight major projects and nine supporting sub-projects over the next five years, representing the most significant investments in the asset since its construction.
Initial works include renewal of the Barrage's electrical systems, refurbishment of the existing barrage gates, and refurbishment of the overhead crane used to maintain and operate the structure. New gates are expected to be installed later this year.
Residents are invited to step behind the scenes with a guided tour of the Fitzroy River Barrage at the Barrage community open day on Saturday, 12 September 2026.
Quotes attributable to Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor Tony Williams:
"Roads, water, wastewater and drainage don't always attract attention when they're working properly, but they're the foundations of our community.
"The Fitzroy River Barrage has been doing the heavy lifting for our community for more than 50 years.
"It provides a reliable water source for our households, businesses, industry and agricultural sector.
"This year's budget includes funding for major works that will ensure this critical asset continues to perform for decades to come.
"It's about investing not only in the projects people can see, but also in the critical infrastructure behind the scenes like this."
Quotes attributable to Water Councillor Edward Oram:
"The Barrage is one of the most important assets Council manages, and like any critical infrastructure, it requires ongoing investment to ensure it continues operating safely and efficiently.
"This refurbishment program is about future-proofing our water supply and ensuring the infrastructure supporting our growing region remains reliable well into the future.
"While the upgrades may not be highly visible to the average resident, the benefits certainly are."
