Local companies stand to reap a boost to their bottom line as a result of the proposed $500 million
Wyaralong Dam, with Queensland Water Infrastructure (QWI) setting up a register for local business
suppliers.
QWI established by the Government in 2006 to deliver dam projects to be located on the Mary and Logan Rivers, has already received over 200 registrations from local businesses about participating in the proposed Wyaralong Dam project, with over 90% of them local.
Over 50 represents from local businesses attended an industry forum at the Boonah & District Cultural Centre last night to hear about the potential opportunities. A second forum will be held on Tuesday 4 September at the Beaudesert RSL. The proposed Wyaralong Dam, which is part of the Queensland Government’s multi-faceted water strategy, is due to be completed by the end of 2011. QWI CEO Graeme Newton said QWI was undertaking a series of initiatives to ensure local companies can participate in the project, including setting up registrations of interest, a local supplier capability database and community workshops. “Based on the experience of the Burnett River’s Paradise Dam, at least 400 suppliers will be needed for the Wyaralong Dam project, with about 40 percent sourced locally,” Mr Newton said. “About 300 jobs are likely to be created, with about 30-40 percent, expected to be filled by local people. “It is important we start planning now to help local and regional businesses gear up for potential opportunities that the dam will provide. Local trainers and employers should also start to consider how they can help meet potential skill and staff opportunities that will arise as a result of the proposed project.” |