General News
4 November, 2026
Kuranda weir rebuilt after severe cyclone damage
THE Kuranda weir has been rebuilt at a cost of $43 million.
The major reconstruction has strengthened infrastructure supporting the 66-megawatt Barron Gorge Hydro Power Station, after extreme weather events associated with ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper washed away 50m of the weir’s embankment in December 2023.
The weir is essential to the operations of the power station, supplying water for electricity generation.
Initial recovery works enabled CleanCo to return the station to service just six months after the cyclone, while progressing permanent repairs to better withstand future floods.
The completed works include replacing the damaged earthen embankment with a permanent concrete structure, stabilising the remaining embankment and installing additional protection against erosion and damage to the neighbouring rail corridor.
CleanCo chief executive officer Tom Metcalfe said the project reflected the expertise and commitment of the people behind the recovery.
“Returning Barron Gorge to service within six months was a significant achievement, strengthening the resilience of this important asset to support Queensland’s energy needs into the future,” he said.
“We’re proud to have built Kuranda weir back better, ready to support reliable energy for Queensland for years to come.”
Treasurer and energy minister David Janetzki said the completed project demonstrated the importance of strengthening Queensland’s existing energy infrastructure.
“The Crisafulli government is delivering a plan for Queensland’s future by improving what we have while we build what we need for the future,” he said.
Member for Barron River Bree James said the project supported the infrastructure that local households and businesses depended on.
“Reliable electricity underpins Far North Queensland’s regional economy, supporting local businesses, tourism and the communities that depend on them,” she said.
