Goondiwindi Regional Council has endorsed its largest-ever capital works project to repair and reinforce critical sections of the Goondiwindi levee, following significant erosion after recent floods.
At this week’s Ordinary Council Meeting, Council committed to a nearly $70 million levee restoration project jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments after significant erosion was identified.
The project will reinforce approximately 1.5 kilometres of the levee to ensure continued protection for the Goondiwindi township from future floods. Construction is planned to take about 12 months.
The exact start date is subject to final approvals and contractor availability, but work is set to begin before the end of the year with the project due to be finished before the end of 2027.
Goondiwindi Regional Council Mayor, the Honourable Cr Lawrence Springborg AM, said “The decision reflects Council’s commitment to prioritising community safety of our residents and protecting our shared community assets.”
“This is Council’s most significant capital works project ever, highlighting the levee’s strategic importance for Goondiwindi.
“The levee has protected the town from major floods over 50 times since its last inundation 70 years ago, these works aim to protect our community for many generations into the future,” the Mayor said.
The works will be delivered by the Georgiou Group and Brady Marine Joint Venture (GBJV), a firm selected for its specialised technical expertise. Council confirmed that while these specialist skills are essential to the bulk of the project, there will be opportunities for local businesses to participate.
Local firm Proterra Group has been appointed as project manager due to the scale and complexity of the project.
Council acknowledges that construction will directly impact about 20 properties, causing close by noise, vibration, and changes to access. Nearby properties may also face some disruptions.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said all levels of government were committed to delivering this significant resilience project.
“The Albanese Government is working closely with the Queensland Government to reduce the risk of flood events that Goondiwindi locals face regularly,” Minister McBain said.
“This crucial project demonstrates how serious we are about protecting people, homes and local economies for future generations, and I’m excited to see it getting off the ground.”
Minister for Disaster Recovery Ann Leahy said that working closely with Council to support the community through this construction will ensure Goondiwindi remains protected for generations to come.
“The nearly $70 million restoration of the Goondiwindi levee is a critical investment in protecting homes, businesses and essential infrastructure from future flooding,” Minister Leahy said.
“After the significant erosion revealed by recent events, it is vital we act now to strengthen this important asset for the long term.”
Member for Southern Downs James Lister said this is the largest capital works project ever undertaken by Goondiwindi Regional Council and it reflects “just how important the levee is to our community”.
“The levee has safeguarded the community for decades and this restoration will ensure it continues to provide that protection well into the future,” Mr Lister said.
“I encourage residents to attend the community information session to learn what to expect, noting there will be some temporary impacts, as this project is focused on securing Goondiwindi’s long-term safety and resilience.”
Mayor Springborg reaffirmed Council’s commitment to keeping residents informed and to minimising disruption where possible.
“We recognise these works will have a significant impact on some residents, and this consideration is taken seriously. However, this disruption is necessary to repair the levee and protect the town from future flooding,” the Mayor said.
