General News
12 November, 2025
Water system under strain
URGENT works on major water reservoirs in Cairns are proceeding as fast as possible as the weather heats up and water use rises.
Cairns Regional Council crews and contractors have completed safety assessments, geotechnical surveys and structural testing, with on-site repair and cleaning works now progressing to return the reservoirs to full operation.
Key works include:
Brinsmead reservoir –Propping works have been completed ahead of schedule. Specialist testing is underway to guide next steps with internal cleaning underway
University reservoir (JCU) – Temporary repair works are continuing, with the next construction phase – including hob wall works underway. Geotechnical surveys are also underway to assess a potential site for a new reservoir near the existing one.
Brinsmead and Bayview roof projects – Preliminary design documentation has been issued with a design workshop planned.
Council chief executive officer Ken Gouldthorp said the works were vital milestones in restoring network capacity and ensuring the city’s long-term water security.
“We have a comprehensive rectification program with clear timelines in place to ensure we complete the emergency works as soon as possible, while also fast-tracking the investigation of a potential new reservoir at James Cook University and building the long-term future of our network with the Cairns water security stage 1 project,” he said.
Mr Gouldthorp reiterated the water wise message to residents to help ease pressure on the network.
“We’ve seen the weather heat up over the past week or so, which often means usage increases for things like keeping the lawn green and the pool filled,” he said.
“But council is urging every resident to be mindful of their usage and follow permanent water conservation measures that have applied in Cairns since 2007.
“Our irrigation program always aligns with current restriction levels and our team also takes into account weather forecasts and other factors to ensure our watering program is reduced or switched off if rainfall is predicted or occurs.”
