LNP Leader Deb Frecklington today said the case for the New Bradfield Scheme couldn’t be clearer with water enough to fill 14 Sydney Harbours currently forecast to spill over the Burdekin Falls Dam wall.
Data shows the dam is expected to be over capacity for another 90 days, meaning 7000 gigalitres could be wasted out to sea.
“There’s no clearer example of Queensland’s wasted potential than seeing billions of litres of water spilling over the Burdekin Falls Dam wall,” Ms Frecklington said.
“Water is the lifeblood of Queensland communities and we can’t afford to waste it.
“The LNP’s plan for the New Bradfield Scheme will capture water from the Burdekin River to create more local jobs, give farmers water and generate clean energy.
“The LNP will secure Queensland’s water supply, not squander it.
“There is no bigger issue in Queensland than water security and the LNP’s plan for the New Bradfield Scheme is a major step towards drought-proofing the state and building a stronger economy.”
LNP Candidate for Townsville John Hathaway said an investment in water was an investment in jobs.
“North Queensland’s economy will be supercharged by the LNP’s plan to raise the Burdekin Falls Dam and build the New Bradfield Scheme,” Mr Hathaway said.
“Tens of thousands of jobs will be created during the construction and with the expansion of high-value agriculture.”
LNP Candidate for Mundingburra Glenn Doyle said Townsville would also be home of the Queensland Dam Company under an LNP Government.
“The sole purpose of the Queensland Dam Company is to build new dams and upgrade existing dams,” Mr Doyle said.
“Townsville needs jobs and a stronger economy and the only way to deliver that is with the LNP’s plan to build job-creating infrastructure like the New Bradfield Scheme.”
