The search is underway for a company to design, build and commission a new raw water intake and pre-treatment plant on the Mossman River – an essential step in securing the region’s long-term water future.
Council has secured funding through the National Water Grid Fund’s Water Infrastructure for Sustainable and Efficient Regions (WISER) initiative with a project cost of $16.4 million (including $10 million of funding support provided by the Australian and State governments).
Douglas Shire Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said the opening of the formal Request for Tender (RFT) signals strong momentum for the project.
“The strong turnout at a recent briefing and site inspection shows just how much interest there is in being part of this generational project,” Mayor Scomazzon said.
“This is about securing our water future for decades to come and it’s encouraging to see so many experienced contractors eager to contribute.”
The new intake and pre-treatment plant will play a vital role in strengthening water security, supporting population growth, tourism and climate resilience. An additional 2,000 million litres per year will be added to the Douglas Shire water network when the new intake is operational.
The construction contract is scheduled to be awarded early in 2026.
