Two temporary camps will be set up to house the first workers on a $14 billion hydro project west of the Sunshine Coast.
The short-term camps will accommodate workers who will undertake exploratory works and provide essential geotechnical data to inform the approvals and technical design of the Borumba Pumped Hydro Energy Storage project.
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Construction of the two camps will require about 40 workers and provide accommodation for up to 168 workers throughout the exploratory works stage of the project.
“Accommodation is a challenge across the state, which is why it’s critical that we ensure this workforce has a roof over their head while this vital exploratory work is underway,” Deputy Premier Steven Miles said.
“Additionally, it means progressing this project won’t impede on housing supply for Gympie and surrounds.”
The mega project is a cornerstone of the state government’s Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan, and critical to meeting the state’s target of 70 per cent renewable energy by 2032.
The camps will be operated 24/7 and include some recreational facilities such as a gym and outdoor exercise areas. They will be located on freehold land, with one site owned by Queensland Hydro and the other owned by the Queensland Government.
The camps are being developed with input from community and unions to ensure the best conditions for workers.
Delivery of the camps is subject to the state government’s Buy Queensland procurement policy, which means locals will be sought to help build and operate the camp and associated services.
“The construction and operation of the camps will offer service opportunities for businesses in the local region,” Queensland Hydro CEO Kieran Cusack said.
“There are many local economic benefits of the project and local jobs being created and supported. We already have been working with local industry to ensure they are fully aware of the opportunities in our upcoming procurement packages.”
Future longer-term project camps will offer an opportunity to Borumba Stakeholder Reference Group members to consider broader tourism and affordable housing options as part of the legacy approach to the project.
The Queensland Government and Queensland Hydro are also in the final stages of developing a community benefits framework for surrounding local communities.
The project will eventually require up to 2000 construction workers.
The state government is investing $183.7 million in the 2023-24 budget with Queensland Hydro to progress the project.
“We know the Borumba project will create 2000 jobs and, once complete, this also means more, good jobs in renewables long into the future,” Mr Miles said.
Member for Caloundra Jason Hunt said the project would benefit the Sunshine Coast.
“It’s the workers and businesses of our growing Sunshine Coast region that will play a leading role in building Borumba, one of the most important energy projects in the nation,” he said.
Member for Nicklin Rob Skelton said the project would store enough of Queensland’s clean solar and wind to power two million homes.
“Australians everywhere are looking to us to not only provide reliable renewable energy, but to be a reliable leader that is taking real action on the national energy and climate transition,” he said.
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