Carried out in 2001–2002, this $106 million project with the Gladstone Area Water Board was Queensland’s first major infrastructure alliance. The aim of the project was to increase the capacity of Awoonga Dam to cater for current and future growth of the region for the next 12 to 15 years. The dam needed to be raised by 10 m to increase capacity from 283,000  ML to 800,000 ML, necessitating the relocation of roads, rail, power and communications infrastructure, and recreational facilities.

PB prepared detailed designs for the relocation of major infrastructure, including 13 km of main road realignment, 12 km of rural and access roads, 5 km of rail realignment, and 33 km of 66 kV power lines and 8.4 km of 11 kV power lines. PB staff also managed the environment, community and land rehabilitation aspects of the project.

The project was delivered 20% under budget and five months ahead of schedule. It also received a number of awards.

Awards

2003: Highly Commended — Engineering Excellence Awards, from the Institution of Engineers (Qld)

2002: Highly Commended — CaseEARTH Awards, from Case Construction Equipment and Civil Contractors Federation

‘Fair Go for Queensland’ certificate, from the Queensland Government (for 80% of project purchases being made locally)

Training Award, from Construction Training Queensland