Construction of the 28km, $19.8 million Bundaberg Port Gas Pipeline in Queensland has been completed.
Pressure testing of the pipeline is also complete and pipeline marker posts have been installed.
Some works remain before the pipeline can be commissioned, including the installation of main line valves and offtakes along the pipeline.
A gas meter measurement station to connect the $70 million Knauf Plasterboard Facility to the pipeline will also be installed.
The much-anticipated project became a reality late in 2016 when the Queensland Government entered into a development agreement with AGN for the delivery and operation of the pipeline.
Local workers made up about 60 per cent of the total workforce throughout the project, providing an economic boost for the broader Bundaberg region.
The pipeline is expected to create further economic benefits in the future as more customers connect to it over the coming years.
Australian Gas Networks Chief Operating Officer, Andrew Staniford, said, “We have deliberately built the pipeline to ensure it is able to meet increased demand from potential new business and industry in the future – and therefore assist in creating much needed further new jobs in the region.
“We will be talking to other businesses in the region to identify those that would benefit from connecting to the pipeline.”
Mr Staniford said the project had been a real boon for the region, which like other parts of Australia, had experienced its fair share of difficult economic times, including employment opportunities.
“For a project like this to maintain a 60 per cent local workforce has been great for the entire community as it has provided much needed employment and career opportunities in the area.”
One of the project’s key functions will be supporting the development of the new $70 million Knauf Plasterboard facility.
Currently under construction, the plant has created up to 200 jobs during its development and about 55 new positions when operational.
“AGN is delighted to be playing an integral role in delivering such a significant infrastructure project to the broader Bundaberg region,” Mr Staniford said.
“The project is on track for completion and commencement of gas supply by February.”
