Far North Queensland Infrastructure Plan 2009-2031 - Regionally significant infrastructure projects that support the Far North Queensland Regional ...
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Far North Queensland Infrastructure Plan 2009–2031 Regionally significant infrastructure projects that support the Far North Queensland Regional Plan 2009–2031 February 2009
Far North Queensland The regional plan does not commit or document to support the regional plan and
pertain to commit any government, industry should be read in conjunction with it. The
Infrastructure Plan
or community organisation to implement, regulatory provisions and the regulatory maps
2009–2031 fund or otherwise resource specific activities have effect from the date of gazettal of the
or programs. FNQ Regulatory Provisions. Any development
Prepared by: applications that were lodged between 9 May
The Honourable Paul Lucas MP, Deputy Maps indicated as being for information 2008 and the date that the FNQ Regulatory
Premier and Minister for Infrastructure and only are intended to represent general Provisions were gazetted, will be subject to
Planning. concepts for the purpose of broad-scale the draft State Planning Regulatory Provisions
regional planning. These maps do not (Regional Plans) May 2008.
With assistance from: and are not intended to identify or give
Department of Infrastructure and Planning attributes or rights, including land use or For more information on the regional plan and
development rights, to specific land parcels. regulatory provisions contact:
Published by: Department of Infrastructure and Planning
The information on the maps is not Planning Group Northern Region
intended for reference to specific parcels of post PO Box 5194 Cairns Qld 4870 Australia
land, and should be treated as indicative visit Level 2 Orchid Plaza
only and subject to ongoing refinement. 79-87 Abbott Street Cairns
February 2009 In some parts of the mapping one layer tel 1300 721 194
ISBN: 978-0-9804831-1-6 obscures another, this is not meant to imply fax +61 7 4039 8866
any order of importance or priority. FNQRegionalPlan@dip.qld.gov.au
© The State of Queensland (Queensland www.dip.qld.gov.au
Department of Infrastructure and Planning) The Department of Infrastructure and
2009. Planning, does not guarantee or make Copies of the regional plan and regulatory
any representations as to the accuracy or provisions (including the regulatory maps) are
Copyright protects this publication. Except completeness of the information shown available:
for purposes permitted by the Copyright on this map, nor does it accept any online www.dip.qld.gov.au
Act 1968, no part may be reproduced responsibility or liability for any loss or for viewing at most council chambers,
by any means without the prior written damage arising from its use. libraries and customer service centres within
permission of the Queensland Department the local government areas covered by the
of Infrastructure and Planning. Data Sources include: Department of regional plan
Infrastructure and Planning for free on CD-ROM or in hard copy by
Release notes Department of Main Roads contacting Department of Infrastructure and
Department of Natural Resources and Water Planning offices in Cairns and Brisbane
The Far North Queensland Infrastructure Department of Transport by phoning 1300 721 194
Plan 2009–2031 (2009) is released by the Department of Mines and Energy by emailing FNQRegionalPlan@dip.qld.gov.au
regional planning Minister to complement Geoscience Australia Department of Infrastructure and Planning
and progress implementation of the Far Ergon Energy offices:
North Queensland Regional Plan 2009–2031 Powerlink Level 2 Orchid Plaza 79-87 Abbott Street
(2009). Mapinfo Roads Cairns
Level 1 63 George Street Brisbane
The regional plan represents an agreed The Far North Queensland Regional Plan
Queensland Government position on the 2009–2031 State Planning Regulatory
future of FNQ. Any plans, policies and Provisions (FNQ Regulatory Provisions
codes being prepared or amended by state or regulatory provisions) and associated
agencies or local governments must reflect FNQ regulatory maps form a standalone
and align with the regional plan.
Far North Queensland Infrastructure Plan 2009–2031 Regionally significant infrastructure projects that support the Far North Queensland Regional Plan 2009–2031 February 2009
Far North Queensland Infrastructure Plan 2009–2031
Foreword 1
Foreword
The Far North Queensland infrastructure FNQIP does not operate in isolation.
plan (FNQIP) is a significant achievement It is a key component of the regional
for regional Queensland. This is the first planning process for FNQ. The Far North
time the Queensland Government has Queensland Regional Plan 2009–2031
released an infrastructure plan outside of (FNQ Regional Plan) will manage growth
South East Queensland (SEQ). in the region over the next 20 years.
FNQIP is a vital part of the Queensland The regional plan will help maintain
Government’s commitment to managing and improve the lifestyle, economic
regional growth. The plan identifies opportunities, environment and other
current and future needs of the region, aspects of the region that are valued
infrastructure required to support desired by the community. It will ensure the
growth in an efficient manner, and build region remains an attractive place to live
resilience to the impacts of climate and work, with good access to services
change and peak oil. and facilities. The infrastructure plan is
integral to ensuring the FNQ regional plan
This infrastructure plan will be reviewed delivers these outcomes.
regularly to report on completed projects,
reflect the outcomes of planning studies FNQIP and the FNQ Regional Plan support
and report on new funding allocations. the Queensland Government’s Toward
Q2: Tomorrow’s Queensland vision
This government’s ongoing commitment for the future. The five ambitions for
to infrastructure is vital in providing communities in every Queensland region
certainty to the Australian Government, is to be strong, green, smart, healthy
state agencies, local government, and fair. This means developing a diverse
business and the general community economy powered by bright ideas,
about major infrastructure planning and protecting our lifestyle and environment,
investment in Far North Queensland. This delivering world-class education and
level of certainty will ensure infrastructure training, making Queenslanders Australia’s
in the region is better planned and healthiest people and supporting a safe
coordinated to achieve the maximum and caring community.
impact for the least cost.
The initial Queensland Government
economic investment identified in the
infrastructure plan is approximately $2
billion over four years. This includes
approximately $570 million in road, The Honourable Paul Lucas MP
rail and public transport projects, more Deputy Premier and Minister for
than $1 billion in social and community Infrastructure and Planning
infrastructure, $230 million in water
infrastructure and $170 million in
energy infrastructure. Expenditure on
maintenance of existing infrastructure or
non-fixed assets is in addition to these
amounts. The total economic investment
will increase over time as funds are made
available.
2 Far North Queensland Infrastructure Plan 2009–2031
Contents
Foreword 1 2.3 Energy 17
2.3.1 Challenges 18
Part A—Context 3
2.3.2 Responses 18
1.1 About the Far North Queensland
Infrastructure Plan 2009–2031 (FNQIP) 3 2.3.3 Demand management 19
1.1.1 How to read FNQIP 4 2.3.4 Electricity 20
1.2 Funding Infrastructure 4 2.3.5 Gas 22
1.2.1 State Budget 4 2.4 Health 22
1.2.2 Roads Implementation Program 4 2.4.1 Challenges 22
1.2.3 Local government funding 4 2.4.2 Responses 22
1.2.4 State infrastructure agreements 4 2.5 Education, training and the arts 23
1.2.5 Infrastructure Australia 5 2.5.1 Challenges 24
1.2.6 Private sector funding 5 2.5.2 Responses 24
1.3 Partnerships 5 2.6 Justice, police and corrective services 25
1.4 Strategic outcomes 5 2.7 Emergency services 26
1.4.1 Infrastructure alignment with growth patterns 5 2.8 Regional sport and recreation 26
1.4.2 Efficient resource use 5 2.9 Information communication technology 27
1.4.3 Liveability and community wellbeing 6 2.10 Government service delivery 28
1.4.4 Economic growth 6 Schedule 1—Completed projects 29
1.4.5 Environmental wellbeing 6
Schedule 2—Regionally significant
infrastructure projects—Far North Queensland 31
Part B—Infrastructure classes 7
2.1 Transport 7 Schedule 3—Maps 35
2.1.1 Challenges 8 Schedule 4—Useful websites 37
2.1.2 Responses 8
2.1.3 Cycling and walking 8
2.1.4 Public transport 9
2.1.5 Roads 9
2.1.6 Aviation 11
2.1.7 Ports and marine 11
2.1.8 Rail 11
2.2. Water 12
2.2.1 Challenges 12
2.2.2 Responses 13
2.2.3 Making best use of available supplies 13
2.2.4 Water quality 15
2.2.5 New and contingent supplies of water 15
Part A—Context 3
PART A—Context
1.1 About the Far Queensland Government infrastructure
projects, planning and funding
North Queensland activities, and their alignment with the
FNQ Regional Plan. The emphasis is
Infrastructure Plan on infrastructure projects of regional
2009–2031 significance. As well, FNQIP provides an
outline of key initiatives and strategies
such as demand management. Strategic
The Far North Queensland Infrastructure investigations and corridor projects are
Plan (FNQIP) identifies regionally also identified.
significant infrastructure projects and
planning activities that support the Far The strategic investigation and corridor
North Queensland Regional Plan 2009– identification projects are indicative only
2031 (FNQ Regional Plan). and are subject to future determination
including detailed needs analysis, levels
The FNQ Regional Plan provides a of service, business cases, sequencing,
statutory framework to guide and funding allocation and in some cases
manage growth over the next 20 environmental impact assessment.
years. This includes identifying desired
regional outcomes and priorities that
inform Queensland Government budget
processes and promotes effective
coordination of state agencies and
government-owned corporations in the
planning and provision of infrastructure.
FNQIP outlines challenges and responses
for key infrastructure classes for the
long-term. It also provides a review of
4 Far North Queensland Infrastructure Plan 2009–2031
1.1.1 How to read the Far North
Queensland Infrastructure Plan
1.2 Funding 1.2.3 Local government funding
FNQIP outlines regionally significant
infrastructure The Queensland Government, through
the Department of Local Government,
infrastructure projects to support the Sport and Recreation (DLGSR), contributes
FNQ Regional Plan and should be read FNQIP is linked to the state budget and funds to assist local governments to
in the context of the regional plan. It is other funding processes but is not a build infrastructure that meets identified
organised into the following parts: funding mechanism in its own right. It community needs. A range of funding
will be updated regularly as planning programs are available for water and
Part A—Context explains what FNQIP activities are finalised and funding is sewerage infrastructure, roads and
is, sources of funding, how to read secured. drainage, stormwater, flood mitigation,
this document and the importance of landfill rehabilitation, sport and recreation
partnerships. The Queensland Government is committed and community facilities.
to sound fiscal management and
Part B—Infrastructure classes outline responsible borrowings. The Department of Main Roads subsidises
funded projects by asset class. The local government road projects through
asset classes identified in Part C the Transport Infrastructure Development
includes transport, water, energy, health, 1.2.1 State budget Scheme. The Australian Government also
education, training and the arts, justice, provides funding to local government
The state budget process is the principal
police and corrective services, emergency authorities for local roads.
mechanism for identifying, prioritising
services, regional sport and recreation,
and delivering infrastructure projects in
information communication technology
FNQ. It also assists with the coordination
and government service delivery.
of infrastructure and services owned 1.2.4 State infrastructure
by state agencies, government-owned agreements
Schedule 1 identifies infrastructure
corporations, local government and the In some instances, expenditure on
projects, planning studies and related
private sector. Queensland government- infrastructure will be used to lead
initiatives completed during the
owned corporations and their business development in order to achieve specific
preparation of the FNQ Regional Plan.
planning processes feed directly into the outcomes. This will provide clear benefits
planning cycle leading up to the annual to some sections of the community.
Schedule 2 provides details of regionally
state budget. In these instances, the Queensland
significant infrastructure projects that
support the FNQ Regional Plan, their Government considers it reasonable for
indicative delivery timeframe and an beneficiaries to bear some of the cost of
estimated total cost for projects with 1.2.2 Roads Implementation this additional infrastructure provision.
approved funding. Program
Where the Queensland Government is
The Roads Implementation Program is
Schedule 3 indicates regionally significant providing major new infrastructure, land
the Department of Main Roads capital
infrastructure projects spatially on maps. owners and developers of new areas,
investment plan for infrastructure assets.
who stand to benefit significantly, may
It is developed annually to guide the
Schedule 4 provides details of useful be required to contribute to infrastructure
expenditure of state road funds, in
websites with links to project mentioned provision through a state infrastructure
line with Queensland and Australian
in this infrastructure plan. agreement. Structure plans for new
Government budgets. Confirmed
greenfield areas may involve state
government road improvements are
infrastructure agreements that detail
clearly identified over the first two years,
private contributions towards priority
with the last three years being indicative
state infrastructure.
for planning purposes.
Part A—Context 5
1.4 Strategic outcomes
The FNQ Regional Plan defines the
regional land use pattern and desired
regional outcomes and is the basis
on which priorities for infrastructure
investment across Far North Queensland
are established. The following strategic
outcomes are derived from the FNQ
Regional Plan.
1.4.1 Infrastructure alignment with
growth patterns
1.2.5 Infrastructure Australia The Queensland Government is a
The FNQ Regional Plan specifies that the
participant in a variety of partnership
The Australian Government has staged provision of infrastructure occurs
arrangements with other levels of
announced a new, national approach in sequence with the preferred pattern
government, government-owned
to planning, funding and implementing of development. This includes supplying
corporations and the private sector in
the nation’s future infrastructure needs. infrastructure in an efficient way, including
delivering infrastructure. Contributions
Infrastructure Australia will develop a encouraging urban development in areas
for funding projects come from all three
strategic blueprint for our nation’s future where adequate infrastructure exists, or
levels of government, with various
infrastructure needs, in partnership with can be provided efficiently.
projects having subregional, regional or
the states, territories, local government national interest. There are significant Providing infrastructure to achieve the
and the private sector, to facilitate the opportunities for the private sector to population density, self-containment
efficient delivery of national infrastructure work with the Queensland Government to and transport targets set out in the FNQ
investment. deliver infrastructure projects. Regional Plan for the Mount Peter Master
Planned Area is integral to its success.
In partnership with other levels of
This requires a combination of integrated
1.2.6 Private sector funding government and the private sector, the
land and transport planning and new
Queensland Government is committed to
The private sector is a significant partner and enhanced transport networks for
improving the quality of life, equality of
in the provision of funds, land and increased opportunities for walking,
opportunity and fulfilment of the diverse
infrastructure that supports growth and cycling, public transport and motor
aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait
meet community needs. vehicle movements and transit hubs.
Islander Queenslanders.
The State Government Building and
1.4.2 Efficient resource use
1.3 Partnerships Construction Contracts Structured Training
Policy requires that a minimum of 10 per The FNQ Regional Plan recognises the
cent of the total labour hours on any importance of Far North Queensland’s
There are numerous challenges in
Queensland Government building or civil natural resources and their contribution
providing infrastructure, including
construction project must be undertaken to the regional economy. This includes
affordability, deliverability, agency and
by Indigenous workers or used for the maximising the use of existing
industry capacity, periodic shortages
upskilling of existing employees. infrastructure and ensuring associated
of materials and skills and rising
construction costs, community impacts planning, development and operation of
The Indigenous Employment Policy for new projects minimise the demand they
and sequencing. Fluctuating economic
Queensland Government Building and make on resources—particularly water,
conditions and financial markets also
Civil Construction Projects requires that energy supplies, minerals and aggregates.
pose risks of delay.
a minimum 20 per cent of total labour Projects will also maximise system
hours for Queensland government integration and reduce the waste they
It is important that all levels of
infrastructure projects, in designated generate, including carbon emissions,
government and industry work together
Indigenous communities and shires, be and their impacts on natural areas. The
to provide innovation in delivery models
dedicated to employing and training local design, location and prioritisation of
and procurement for infrastructure
Indigenous people. This policy applies to infrastructure will also consider the effects
projects within Far North Queensland.
Yarrabah and Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire of climate change.
The Queensland Government is open
Councils in FNQ.
to a range of options and modes of
infrastructure delivery.
6 Far North Queensland Infrastructure Plan 2009–2031
1.4.3 Liveability and community
wellbeing Ecological processes
Safe, healthy, smart and fair communities Infrastructure corridors can contribute to the fragmentation of habitat and
are underpinned by well-planned and disruption of ecological processes that underpin the biodiversity values of the
well-serviced infrastructure. This goal is surrounding land. Infrastructure projects within FNQ seek to:
supported by the timely and adequate
provision of infrastructure and services • manage ecologically significant sites and conserve the habitat of endangered
relative to the social needs of the flora and fauna
region. This includes education, health, • reduce impacts on flora, fauna and dependent ecosystems through appropriate
emergency services, corrective services and practical measures, including minimising vegetation clearance for
and other community facilities. infrastructure works and undertaking revegetation and restoration works
• where practicable, undertake works to enhance wildlife connectivity
1.4.4 Economic growth • take effective measures to protect water quality in receiving waters
The provision of infrastructure to support • support research and education in matters related to ecology and the
diverse economic and employment implications for responsible infrastructure design, construction, operation
opportunities in priority industries and and maintenance.
regional activity centres is central to the
promotion of regional economic activity.
This includes sustaining employment
opportunities for local people.
Local job opportunities will be sustained
through large scale infrastructure
investment in Far North Queensland. The
investment detailed in this infrastructure
plan means approximately 3,900 full time
equivalent jobs will be sustained in Far
North Queensland for four years.
1.4.5 Environmental wellbeing
The FNQ Regional Plan recognises the
importance of the region’s rich and
diverse natural environment and its
contribution to the regional economy and
the liveability of the region. This includes
protection of ecological processes and
natural systems at local, regional and
state levels. The region includes the Wet
Tropics World Heritage Area and the Great
Barrier Reef World Heritage Area.Part B—Infrastructure classes 7
PART B—Infrastructure classes
2.1 Transport This is about getting planning right and
detailing the future corridors to deal
with growth that is anticipated in major
Planning and investing in the region’s centres. This will ensure roads flow freely
transport system will facilitate for trips that require road transport and
development of the preferred pattern will make sustainable transport options
of development and is a key driver more widely available.
for regional and state economic
development. This includes improvements Key outcomes for transport system in
to road, cycle, walking and public FNQ include:
transport networks. A range of policy
and travel behaviour measures are also • safer transport to support safer
necessary to ensure the efficient use of communities
existing infrastructure. • efficient and effective transport to
support industry competitiveness
This infrastructure plan identifies a
and growth
number of initiatives that support
the FNQ Regional Plan. These include • fair access and amenity to support
improving the movement of people liveable communities
and goods in the future. In addition, • environmental management to support
various studies are underway to ensure environmental conservation
transport networks will adequately cater
for the increase in population and freight • a mode share consistent with
demand. sustainable outcomes.8 Far North Queensland Infrastructure Plan 2009–2031
2.1.1 Challenges 2.1.2 Responses • providing infrastructure that enables
the desired regional outcome for
The region’s transport system, particularly The strategic responses of the FNQ transport and the supporting policies in
the road network in and to Cairns, will Regional Plan include: FNQ Regional Plan to be met
face increasing pressure due to rapid
population growth leading to congestion. • planning ahead so that transport • promoting active transport, such
Other emerging issues such as fluctuating infrastructure keeps pace with growth as walking and cycling to achieve
markets, climate change, oil vulnerability and is provided in the right place, at sustainable travel and healthy lifestyles
and increased construction and the right time and at the right price • involving transport agencies in strategic
maintenance costs also drive the need for • preserving corridors for future and planning and development assessment
adaptation and changes to the transport enhanced transport infrastructure so processes to influence outcomes
system in the long-term. that they are efficient and affordable such as self-containment, good urban
design, transit oriented communities
The major challenges for transport in the • planning the Cairns Transit Network and accessible sub-divisions.
region include: ahead of development to identify and
protect corridors for a future bus rapid
• supporting regional development, transit network and transit oriented 2.1.3 Cycling and walking
industry competitiveness and growth communities
by upgrading key freight and passenger • incorporating appropriate integration The Queensland Cycle Strategy sets
routes of all transport modes and land use a high-priority, short-term goal of
in planning and delivering transport developing principal cycle network plans
• achieving affordable short and long-
infrastructure for regional areas in order to increase
term improvements in road and rail
cycling rates. A principal cycle network
safety • providing the right transport choices plan for Far North Queensland that
• managing congestion resulting from for people and freight to access and identifies principal routes and iconic
rapid population growth, increasing use, including road, air, sea, rail, public recreation routes is scheduled for release
private vehicle use and growing freight transport, cycling and walking in 2009. The plan includes network maps,
movements, particularly in larger • achieving the targets in the FNQ concept designs and an implementation
centres Regional Plan and related transport plan to deliver a safe and connected
• improving quality of life for remote performance for priority growth areas, principal cycle network.
and rural communities through projects particularly the Mount Peter Master
that enhance travelling conditions Planned Area, to avoid congestion and
and access to Indigenous training and transferral of growth pressures to other
employment areas
• responding to the environmental
biodiversity and sensitivity with
sustainable planning and construction
practices
• managing peaks and troughs in
freight demand resulting from market
fluctuations, particularly for mining and
agriculture.
The North East Minerals Province extends
over the western part of FNQ and is rich
in minerals deposits. Following the recent
minerals boom, exploration has been
stimulated in this area and production of
mineral ore and concentrate is expected
to grow over time, subject to market
fluctuations. The roads in the area are
generally not designed for this level of
freight. Appropriate planning to meet
future demand is important. The planning
should consider options for integrating
the entire haul operation in the most
efficient and affordable manner between
road and rail modes.Part B—Infrastructure classes 9
Queensland Government funding of $6.1 2.1.4 Public transport
million has been announced for the top
priority route between Cairns central The 2005 Cairns Integrated Public
business district to the Aeroglen bikeway. Transport Plan, which came out of the
The 6.5 kilometre bikeway will be built previous Far North Queensland Regional
with 75 per cent state government Plan (2000), recommended that a network
funding and a 25 per cent contribution of dedicated bus spines be planned to
from the Cairns Regional Council. ensure Cairns keeps moving. The Cairns
Detailed design commenced in November Transit Network is also a key component
2008 and the project is expected to be of the FNQ Regional Plan.
completed by late 2009.
Planning for the Cairns transit network
This is the first of many projects to commenced in November 2008 and
be delivered in cooperation with local includes identifying a network to deliver
government to implement the principal dedicated public transport spines on
cycle network plan for Far North northern, western and southern corridors.
Queensland. The ten highest priorities The network will extend from Palm Cove
include routes in Cairns City, Cairns to Gordonvale and west to Redlynch. • Cairns southern urban growth corridor,
northern beaches, Mount Peter, Innisfail, including the Bruce Highway
Mission Beach, Atherton, Tolga, Mareeba, The network will improve public transport
in Cairns by giving buses priority either • Cairns western and northern urban
Mossman and Port Douglas.
in separate transit lanes or on dedicated growth corridors, including Captain
bus-only roads. It will help make public Cook Highway and Cairns western
Queensland Transport and the former
transport an attractive alternative to the arterial road
Atherton and Eacham Shire councils (now
part of the Tablelands Regional Council) car. The transit network will help make • Cairns to the Northern Tablelands—
jointly funded a feasibility study for trips fast, safe, frequent and reliable. Smithfield to Mareeba
rail trail development on the Atherton • northern areas of the Atherton
Tablelands. The Atherton Tablelands The immediate priority is to develop
a network plan that outlines policy, Tablelands
rail trail feasibility study evaluates the
economic feasibility of developing disused infrastructure needs and service upgrades. • north-south across the Atherton
rail corridors as recreational rail trails The long-term vision for the future of Tablelands—Mareeba to Mourilyan
for walking, cycling and horse riding. Cairns is to develop an affordable rapid
• south-western areas through the
Three corridors investigated in the study transit system comprising transit priority,
Atherton Tablelands to coastal areas—
include Mareeba to Atherton, Atherton transit lanes and transit stations in staged
Mt Garnet to the Port of Mourilyan
to Yungaburra (via Kairi) and Atherton to delivery, as required. A high priority of
the future Cairns transit network is the • Atherton Tablelands to western areas
Ravenshoe.
construction of a dedicated Cairns central such as Chillagoe
Integrating cycling and pedestrian business district bus station. Staging • Cairns to Port Douglas and Mossman
considerations at a strategic and policy options for the rest of the network will be
investigated as planning progresses. • remote areas and rural communities,
level across government can facilitate
including Aboriginal communities such
positive initiatives for cycling and
as Wujal Wujal and Yarrabah.
walking within current budgets and work
programs. For example, the Department of 2.1.5 Roads Funding has been provided by the
Main Roads has a policy of providing for Australian Government for the accelerated
Road infrastructure is critical for managing Bruce Highway upgrade package
cycling in road upgrades.
regional growth. There are a number of (Townsville to Cairns). This includes a
initiatives underway to respond to the number of initiatives including fixing
Local governments and other
challenges for moving freight and people. many of the more flood prone sections
organisations also play an important
Meeting the demands of the key growth of the Bruce Highway, including south of
role in delivering the benefits of cycling
areas in the region is critical. Tully, and construction of a new, high-
and walking to their local communities.
The private sector also plays a valuable level bridge over the Mulgrave River
Matching road upgrades and infrastructure
role by incorporating cycling and walking south of Gordonvale.
provision to regional transport demand
infrastructure in new developments.
from freight, tourism and passenger trips
will be important in the road corridors
including:10 Far North Queensland Infrastructure Plan 2009–2031
lane upgrade is also being preserved and
investigations are continuing for ways to
improve the link and plan for the longer-
term.
The Queensland Government will
accelerate extra works totalling $10
million on the important road link
between Charters Towers and Mount
Garnet. This is a key north-south freight
route for the North East minerals province
and is suitable for type—two road trains
transporting cattle and general goods.
Upgrading this important freight route will
improve safety and driving conditions for
all road users and provide an alternative
route between Townsville and Cairns. This
The Australian and Queensland Plan need to be fully implemented, so additional funding will increase the total
governments recognise the Cardwell additional corridors are delayed for as five-year funding package for this route
Range upgrade as a priority. At the long as possible. to $65 million. Funding will be used to
2007 federal election, $90 million was widen a further 12 kilometres of single
committed to the project as part of the The Department of Main Roads is also lane bitumen between Harvey’s Range
Auslink 2 program. This is in addition planning for and preserving bypasses Road and Greenvale to two sealed lanes.
to $6.9 million previously allocated to around towns in Far North Queensland
planning work on the range. Planning including Edmonton, Innisfail, Atherton, Improving quality of life for remote and
is now completed and design is well Mareeba, Smithfield, Yungaburra, rural communities through projects that
advanced to upgrade this section of the Cardwell and Tully. It is important that improve travelling conditions, access
highway, including the provision of a urban development is managed to avoid and Indigenous training, employment
road overpass of the rail line to replace encroachment that would compromise and development is also important.
the existing crossing. The timing of these future corridors. $1.2 million has been allocated at Wujal
construction depends on the release of Wujal for an upgrade south of the
funding by the federal government. An action from the previous Far North Bloomfield River causeway. $1.9 has been
Queensland Regional Plan (2000) allocated for improvements to the Range
Australian and Queensland governments was to investigate improving the road Road near Yarrabah. The Mossman to
have embarked on a major planning link between Cairns and the northern Daintree and Cape Tribulation corridor
study for the Bruce Highway as part of Tablelands, along Kuranda Range Road. In requires special consideration, due
a $150 million upgrade planned for the response, the Department of Main Roads: to possible impacts on areas of high
existing southern corridor. The $5 million ecological value and growth pressures
planning study covers the Bruce Highway • conducted extensive investigations, before any upgrades may occur.
from south of Edmonton to Draper Street, planning and community consultations
near the Cairns city centre. The study is to determine viable options Planning and delivery also needs to occur
investigating a total transport solution, at the local level to cater for shorter trips.
• identified a four lane surface route with
using the existing southern transport Unnecessary local trips on state-controlled
extensive bridging as the best solution
corridor, to meet the needs of residents roads reduce their efficiency for regional
• obtained necessary environmental transport. In order to better manage local
and freight in coming decades. This is
approvals trips, Cairns City has already developed a
vital to identify options for interchanges,
service roads, public transport facilities, • prepared revised cost estimates based transport network plan. A network plan is
pedestrian crossings and cyclist facilities. on this option also being developed for the Tablelands
The planning is part of the Australian Regional Council and another is being
• determined that the option was
Government’s $23 million commitment to scoped for the Cassowary Coast Regional
unaffordable in the short to medium-
tackle urban congestion. Council. The Far North Queensland
term.
Regional Organisation of Councils and
The Department of Main Roads In the short-term, efforts will be made Department of Main Roads have identified
also intends to investigate, identify to improve the safety and efficiency of local roads of regional significance and
and preserve options for transport the existing route. Upgrades to Kuranda are working together to better manage
corridors. Additional corridors may be Range Road are being rolled out, with these roads.
very expensive and involve social and more than $4 million allocated to various
environmental impacts. The land use and works and initiatives between 2008 and
transport strategies of the FNQ Regional 2010. The corridor identified for a fourPart B—Infrastructure classes 11
Queensland Rail (QR) has allocated $10
million for a program of targeted safety
works on priority level crossings in Far
North Queensland. This is in addition
to the existing $33 million long-term
funding program for safety works at
level crossings involving QR, Queensland
Transport, Main Roads and local
authorities.
Work will start immediately on eight
priority level crossings between Mackay
and Cairns identified by a QR task force.
Priorities for the Far North Queensland
region are crossings on the Bruce
Highway at Rungoo, Conn and Aerodrome
Road, near Cardwell, and on Mundoo and
2.1.6 Aviation The Cairns cruise ship terminal will
Garradunga roads near Innisfail. Expanded
receive a $11.2 million upgrade as part of
In 2008, the Queensland Government community education campaigns will
the state government’s efforts to support
sold a 99-year lease on the Cairns also target driver behaviour at level
tourism in Far North Queensland. Facilities
International Airport for $530 million crossings. Almost $20 million has been
will be moved to the redeveloped wharf
which will be spent in the region (see spent to date including installation of
shed Number 3 at Trinity Inlet, while
health). The airport provides international active protection, such as flashing lights
wharf shed Number 2, where the terminal
and domestic air services. The lease or boom gates at 10 crossings, including
is currently based, is being refurbished.
structure for Cairns airport maintains two at Tully.
The upgrade is an important contribution
government ownership over the airport to meeting the anticipated increase in
land and infrastructure. The state The Queensland Government will continue
cruise ship visits to Cairns over the next
government also retains planning control to assess current and emerging demands
15 years and is expected to be completed
over future airport development. for freight rail infrastructure in the Cairns
in 2009.
to Forsyth rail corridor in the North East
Significant infrastructure work had mineral province. Where feasible, the
Cairns is home to Queensland’s only
commenced prior to the granting of government will pursue opportunities
naval base, HMAS Cairns. The base is
the lease, including development of for partnerships and alliances across
undergoing a federally funded $76.3
a common-user domestic terminal to government, industry and the community
million dollar redevelopment to upgrade
meet traffic growth forecasts for the to adequately respond to that demand in
existing infrastructure and facilities and is
next 15 years. The $192 million project a measured and effective manner.
expected to be completed in 2010.
will include docking of new generation
aircraft and compliance with federally The existing Cairns to Forsayth rail
Port Douglas harbour is home to a
mandated legislation requiring 100 per corridor is only actively used for rail
large marine tourism fleet. To facilitate
cent screening of checked baggage. An freight transport (primarily syrups)
the ongoing operation of the harbour,
upgrade to the international terminal between Cairns and Arriga. The segment
$6.4 million has been provided for the
is planned with the exact timing being of the rail corridor between Arriga
construction of a new disposal area for
dependant on future demand. Junction and Almaden is solely used
dredged materials.
for the limited movement of a single
motorised tourist rail motor, operated by
2.1.7 Ports and marine Cairns Kuranda Steam. It is not fit for the
2.1.8 Rail
movement of freight trains beyond Arriga.
Major seaport facilities at Cairns and The North Coast Line is the principal
Mourilyan are managed by the Cairns freight and passenger line within the If the rail were to be refurbished, there
Port Authority and Ports Corporation Queensland rail network, running the remains the potential for congestion
Queensland Limited. With increasing length of Coastal Queensland between on the rail corridor segment within the
pressure for urban expansion, seaports Brisbane in the south and Cairns in Kuranda Range, particularly during the
need to be carefully planned to provide the north, a distance of 1680 km. The sugar harvesting season, if the number
for increased port and harbour activities. system caters for all traffic tasks including of trains operated becomes significant.
The planning and development of the containerised freight services, high speed Additional passing loops may then be
seaport area also needs to consider and Tilt Trains, commuter services, heavy haul required.
balance environmental constraints with single commodity trains of sugar, grain or
the provision of facilities for passengers minerals, and cattle trains.
and port activities.12 Far North Queensland Infrastructure Plan 2009–2031
2.2. Water degraded water quality on the region’s
waterways and the Great Barrier Reef
• increased demand on limited water
resources
lagoon system has been identified as a
• various supply sources are approaching
Water is a valuable and finite regional significant issue. Reticulated sewerage
usage capacity or are fully committed
resource that is essential for both human infrastructure is generally provided only
and environmental needs. The FNQ in major urban centres. The majority of • the potential impact of extended drier
Regional Plan identifies an integrated smaller centres have historically relied on weather conditions on the yield and
approach to water cycle management as a onsite disposal systems such as septic reliability of water supplies in the
key principle underpinning sustainability. tanks. The region’s reticulated sewerage region
This means managing the total water systems all provide at least secondary • dependency on run-of-river flows for
available from all sources to achieve a level of treatment, with treated effluent secure supplies to urban centres
more ecologically sustainable system. discharged to local waterways or coastal
• a higher average population growth
waters. It will be necessary to upgrade
compared to the national growth rate
existing systems and provide reticulated
2.2.1 Challenges sewerage and treatment plants in some • additional pressure on supplies due to
locations to support the preferred pattern growth in domestic and international
Rural activities and land clearing are a
of development for the region. tourism
major source of nutrients, sediments and
other pollutants impacting on riverine, • understanding urban, rural and
The Far North Queensland regional water
estuarine and coastal water quality. industrial water requirements
supply strategy identifies potential water
Similarly, groundwater aquifers are • movement from the drier areas in
supply shortfalls in the long-term, and the
increasingly affected by human activities Australia to areas of higher rainfall such
opportunities and constraints for new or
including unsustainable extraction, and as Far North Queensland
augmented supply sources. In particular,
contamination from saline water inflows
climate change creates risks to yield and • the ability of small communities
and septic tanks. Lowering of water
the reliability of water supplies in parts to adequately access water supply
table levels can result in acid sulphate
of the region1. The primary challenges for solutions
soil exposure. The potential impact of
water supply are:
1
The Far North Queensland water supply strategy region only includes Cairns Regional Council, and the eastern parts of
Tablelands Regional Council. It will include Cassowary Coast Regional Council in the future.Part B—Infrastructure classes 13
• maintaining essential environmental
flows, for example by ensuring wetland
and waterway values are maintained.
The impacts of climate change on water
supply infrastructure also present further
uncertainty. Increased temperatures, more
frequent extreme weather events, and the
mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions
will be essential considerations when
developing and delivering specific water
supply solutions.
2.2.2 Responses
Existing water infrastructure is sufficient
to meet present demands of the region.
Additional urban and industrial water
supplies will be required to meet the
future needs of the region. These
supplies will be gained through better
use of existing available water, demand
management, recycling, alternative
sources and, where necessary, through
the development of new dams and weirs. The state government and regional 2.2.3 Making best use of available
Supply options will need to consider councils are also introducing a range of supplies
future climate change projections and water saving initiatives.
support greenhouse gas emission In recent years, the Queensland
reductions. The strategic priorities for water planning Government has recognised the
and investment are to: important role demand management
The Queensland Government is can play in sustaining the life of our
responsible for regulating water service • review the supply of water to water supplies. Demand management
providers, allocating and managing water accommodate growth in the region measures introduced by the Queensland
resources, and facilitating strategic water Government include:
• diversify water supplies to manage
supply infrastructure. Provision of most
climate variability, climate change
other water infrastructure—including • the Business Water Efficiency Program,
and other supply risks to ensure
operating and managing water storages, which provides rebates and subsidies
contingency supplies
potable water treatment, distribution and for projects that reduce water
reticulation networks and wastewater • ensure more efficient management and consumption
treatment and recycling schemes— use of water
• legislation dealing with water efficiency
rests with local government or service • improve water quality outcomes management plans for the non-
providers such as SunWater. through initiatives such as water residential sector
sensitive urban and rural design
Regional councils are currently investing • the Lifestyle community not-for-profit
in water and sewerage infrastructure. This • provide policy frameworks and grants program, which provides
will be financed from a number of sources subsidies to support more sustainable subsidies for not-for-profit organisations
including state subsidies, water and and integrated systems for water cycle for projects to reduce water
sewerage charges, infrastructure charges management. consumption
on developments and borrowings. The • the ecoBiz program which assists
Queensland Government contributes to businesses identify efficiencies in water.
these projects through subsidy schemes.
Cairns Regional Council is well advanced Mandatory sustainable housing
with the Cleaner Seas project to upgrade improvements will assist to manage
four major waste water treatment plants. water supplies for a growing population.14 Far North Queensland Infrastructure Plan 2009–2031
The Queensland Government aims to
ensure that these housing improvements Demand management in Cairns
are practical and cost effective for
householders and industries. Cairns Regional Council has adopted a water demand management strategy to
promote the efficient use of existing supplies and delay the need for new supplies
Sustainable housing to come online. The water demand management strategy contains a range of
From 1 March 2009, the Queensland initiatives, including:
Development Code increased the
requirements for water efficiency in new • a 10 per cent per capita water conservation target
houses and units to include: • a community water conservation education campaign
• encouraging water conservation in the commercial sector through implementation
• 4-star Water Efficiency Labelling and
of the ecoBiz program developed by the Environmental Protection Agency
Standards (WELS) scheme rated toilets
• a system leakage identification and reduction program
• 3-star WELS rated tapware
• a voluntary rainwater tank policy
• where installed, efficient garden
irrigation systems. • developing a recycled water strategy.
Mandatory water savings targets also
apply to all new houses, townhouses,
Opportunities for rural agriculture will be better irrigation scheduling will continue
terrace houses and villas in FNQ. The
realised through efficiency of water use, to reduce use or increase the value of
targets can be achieved through a
water management, on-farm management production. Sunwater is undertaking
number of options including:
practices for recycled water and additional improvements to the Mareeba irrigation
supplies of water for rural use. Rural distribution. The Tinaroo Falls dam
• household rainwater tanks
water use efficiency initiatives such as spillway is also being upgraded.
• dual reticulation more efficient irrigation equipment and
• communal rainwater tanks
• stormwater reuse
• an approved greywater treatment plant.
Pressure reduction and leakage
management initiatives have the potential
to significantly reduce wastage of water
in some urban water systems.
Better use of recycled water through
reticulation to industrial, commercial,
residential, open space and rural users
will relieve pressure on potable supplies
and bring environmental benefits by
reducing effluent discharge to waterways
and into the Great Barrier Reef lagoon.
The use of recycled water will be carried
out in accordance with agreed recycled
water management plans, as outlined
in the Department of Natural Resources
and Water’s recycled water regulatory
guidelines.
Cairns Regional Council is introducing
recycled water schemes in new residential
subdivisions. Recycled water is a safe
alternative water source for homes that
can be used for a range of non drinking
uses such as watering gardens, toilet
flushing and washing cars and hard
surfaces around the home.Part B—Infrastructure classes 15
2.2.4 Water quality such as Wujal Wujal and Yarrabah to
provide potable water. The private
The Queensland and Australian sector is also expected to play a part by
government’s Reef Water Quality incorporating water quality initiatives,
Protection Plan sets a goal to halt and such as water sensitive urban design, in
reverse the decline in water quality new development.
entering the reef within ten years. This
includes reducing the load of pollutants
from diffuse sources in the water entering 2.2.5 New and contingent supplies
the Reef. The State Costal Management of water
Plan also requires all coastal councils
to upgrade the standard of effluent The Queensland Government aims to
discharged into the Great Barrier Reef provide a secure and reliable system for
lagoon. In October 2008, the Queensland the supply of water for the communities
Government committed $50 million over of Far North Queensland. The Far North
five years to support new regulation to Queensland water supply strategy,
reduce agricultural water pollution in being developed by the Department of
Great Barrier Reef catchments. Natural Resources and Water, provides an
adaptive, long-term strategy to advance
Cairns Regional Council initiated the solutions for future urban, rural and
Cleaner Seas Initiative involving major industrial water needs in FNQ2, while
upgrades at the northern, southern, seeking to achieve optimal environmental,
Edmonton and Marlin Coast wastewater social and economic outcomes.
treatment plants over the next three
years. This will not only increase The water supply strategy recommends
capacity, it will also deliver significant an appropriate balance of water supplies
environmental benefits by reducing the to meet regional demands, taking into
load of nutrients discharged to the Great account likely yields, costs of supply
Barrier Reef lagoon. and supply risks for each source. The
strategy seeks to achieve the sustainable
The Queensland Government supports allocation and best use of water by
local governments with subsidies for adopting a hierarchy of three key
water and sewerage infrastructure. principles:
Subsidy rates are currently 40 per cent for
major water and sewerage projects and • facilitating the highest value and
50 per cent for water recycling projects. best use of water through trading of
Funding is also provided for studies and existing secure and well specified water
investigations to meet current and future entitlements
needs. Funding has been allocated for
• promoting efficient use of water,
the Cleaner Seas initiative, a sewerage
for example, by improving demand
scheme at Malanda and a waste water
management and by reusing and
treatment plant at Yarrabah. A planning
recycling water
report is also being prepared for a
potential Wangan, South Johnstone and • where demands cannot be met through
Mourilyan sewerage scheme. the above measures, and where
unallocated water is available, by the
Integrated urban water management will development of additional least cost
improve water quality by reducing the water supply sources.
quantity, and raising the standard, of
effluent and stormwater discharges to
waterways. The Queensland Government’s
environmental infrastructure program
provides subsidies for a broad range
of local government projects including
solid waste, stormwater and erosion
control initiatives, all of which promote
more sustainable and integrated water
management. Funding is also provided for
water treatment infrastructure in locations 2
The FNQ water supply strategy region only includes Cairns Regional Council, and the eastern parts of Tablelands
Regional Council. It will include Cassowary Coast Regional Council in the future.16 Far North Queensland Infrastructure Plan 2009–2031
The FNQ regional water supply strategy identifies the following new and contingent supplies for further investigation
New and contingent water supply options—Far North Queensland
North Coast Daintree River intake
Wonga bore field
Whyanbeel Creek intake
High Falls Creek intake
Mossman River intakes
Mossman River aquifer
South Mossman River intake
Mowbray River aquifer
Cairns area Northern beaches aquifer
Barron River—Lake Placid extraction
Mulgrave River aquifer
Mulgrave River—run of river intakes
Tablelands Raising Tinaroo Falls Dam
Off stream storage for Yungaburra
Atherton Basalt aquifer—North Johnstone River
Off stream storage from North Johnstone River
Off stream storage for Ravenshoe supplies
Accessing supplemented water from Tinaroo Falls dam
Wild River supply options
Raising Collins Weir
Walsh River supply options
Algoma Weir
Hodgkinson formation
Lake Mitchell
Non-site specific options Rainwater tanks
Water recycling
Greywater reuse
Seawater desalination
Purified recycled water
Surface water harvesting through privately owned dams
Source: Far North Queensland draft Regional Water Supply StrategyPart B—Infrastructure classes 17
Assessment of the infrastructure options The FNQ regional water supply The FNQ regional water supply strategy
have been conducted at a pre-feasibility strategy3 also identifies a number outlines a range of demand-side and
level and should not be regarded as of implementation actions to ensure supply-side options, including temporary
formal impact assessments or the sustainable supplies of water including: and emergency supply options, that will
government’s endorsement for particular be further investigated once the strategy
projects. Any potential infrastructure • undertaking level of service analysis has been publicly released.
options will need to be assessed and reliability assessment on existing
in accordance with the Queensland supply sources and all demands—
Government Guidelines for the financial urban, industrial and rural
2.3 Energy
and economic evaluation of new water • investigating benefits and costs
infrastructure in Queensland (Queensland associated with a regional approach to Energy supply in the region is primarily
Treasury 2000). Progression of water supply reliant on electricity and gas for homes
infrastructure options will require detailed
• undertaking revision of capital cost and businesses. Like the rest of the
environmental impact assessment,
estimates for the identified options world, Far North Queensland faces
including opportunity for public comment.
uncertainty over the impacts of increased
• investigating suitable sites for possible
It is also necessary to set aside a energy costs on a range of community
desalination plants in the future
proportion of water resources for and commercial activities that could
• undertaking end use analysis accompany the introduction of carbon
continued functioning of ecosystems. This
and implementation of demand trading schemes.
is designed to balance the extraction
management plans for Kuranda,
and use of water for human purposes
Mareeba, Ravenshoe, Herberton, The revised Climate Smart Strategy is the
and the management of natural systems.
Malanda, Yungaburra, Atherton, Tolga Queensland Government’s contribution to
The environment has received growing
and the Douglas network tackling the causes of climate change. It
recognition as a legitimate user of
• investigating appropriate solutions for outlines a long-term strategy to secure
water, with increased consideration
water supply issues associated with a clean energy future for the state. The
of environmental flow requirements
Indigenous communities and small strategy supports the use of renewable
addressed in catchment management and
towns in the region energy technologies (such as solar
legislative frameworks.
power, wind, hot rocks and biomass),
• continuing loss reduction upgrades to encouraging the use of natural gas,
the Mareeba Dimbullah water supply increasing the efficiency of energy use
scheme. by business and residents, encouraging
carbon offsets and reducing vehicle
emissions by encouraging fuel-efficient
cars and increased investment in public
3
A full list of implementation actions is in the FNQ water supply strategy transport.You can also read
