General News
4 March, 2026
We’ll drink to that
AN additional two days of drinking water supply for the Douglas Shire will now be available, thanks to a 35 megalitre (35 million litres) increase in raw water reservoir capacity that will connect to the future Mossman River intake.
The $16.4 million project, funded through National Water Grid Authority’s Water Infrastructure for Sustainable and Efficient Regions (WISER), the Australian and Queensland governments through the Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) and the council (DSC), forms part of a broader suite of upgrades designed to improve the resilience of the shire’s water network for the next 50 years.
Federal Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain said the project would reduce the chances of the region’s water supply failing during emergencies, taking water security above and beyond what was normally required.
“Douglas Shire residents deal with the impacts of severe weather caused by tropical lows and cyclones almost every year which can also disrupt water supply,” she said. “The completion of this project will, not only bring confidence to communities, it will also address a common issue in region, easing pressure on emergency services and improving self-reliance.”
Queensland Disaster Recovery Minister Ann Leahy said that water security was essential for strong regional communities such as Douglas Shire.
“The Mossman reservoir upgrade will strengthen Douglas Shire’s water network, provide extra supply when it’s needed most and give locals confidence in their long-term water security,” she said.
“This investment will help ensure Douglas Shire is better prepared for future challenges, with a more resilient water system that supports local families, businesses and essential services.”
Member for Cook David Kempton said secure and reliable water supply was critical for “our community and this project provides real benefits for the Douglas”.
He said the upgraded Mossman raw water reservoir would provide greater certainty during wet weather events.
He said the Shire would be well prepared for the next 50 years.
Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said the reservoir was a “fantastic upgrade” to the Shire’s long-term water security.
“At 35 megalitres, this reservoir upgrade will hold the equivalent of around 14 Olympic-sized swimming pools of water, giving Douglas Shire an extra two days of supply and real confidence in our water security for the future,” she said.
“That’s a significant improvement for a community that relies heavily on Rex Creek, especially during the wet season when turbidity can disrupt supply. This project will give us resilience, stability and confidence for decades to come.”
The 35ML Mossman raw water reservoir upgrade will be a short distance from the new Mossman intake, allowing both projects to be delivered under a single contract.
Cr Scomazzon said combining the two major projects would deliver strong benefits for the community. “By merging these two projects under one contract, we will streamline the design and construction processes while ensuring consistent outcomes,” she said.
Council have started the process to award a design and construction contract in 2026.
