General News
30 December, 2025
Costly leaks all fixed now
THE Cassowary Coast is one of the wettest regions in Australia and a $9 million project has stopped extensive and expensive leaks.
The program involved a range of sustainable upgrades to infrastructure, helping to reduce water loss in the water schemes of Innisfail, Nyleta, Tully and Cardwell.
Replacement of old and deteriorating water mains, coupled with the rollout of smart water meters means improved water reliability and the ability for Cassowary Coast Regional Council, residents and businesses to monitor water use and identify leaks sooner.
The replacement of ageing infrastructure has resulted in greater than 25 million litres of water being saved.
The Cassowary Coast leak reduction project has been jointly funded between the federal government ($4.02 million), the state government ($4.02 million) and the council ($978,000).
Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said the completion marked a major milestone in council’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure.
“This project is a significant investment in the sustainability of our water supply,” she said.
“By reducing leaks and installing smart technology, we’re improving reliability for our residents and saving ratepayer dollars in the long run.”
Federal Environment and Water Minister Murray Watt said the government was delivering infrastructure projects to communities which needed better water security.
“The leak reduction project in Cassowary Coast is an example of all levels of government coming together for the people of Queensland,” he said.
“The project outcomes are sustainable, they’re real and they’re securing the critical water needed into the future for the region.”
Queensland Local Government and Water Minister Ann Leahy said it was a “necessary project which has future-proofed water for the Cassowary Coast”.
“Smart investments like this are essential for building resilient regional communities and reducing the risk of water disruptions during natural disasters,” she said.
Assistant minister for Northern Australia Nita Green said it was “a great project that conserves precious water, while delivering up to date infrastructure for Innisfail, Nyleta, Tully and Cardwell”.
She said it would stop costly leaks.
The completed upgrades are:
In Innisfail – Carmel Street, Sherwood Street, Martin Street, Esplanade, Hickey Street, Heavey Street, Mary Street, Ryan Street, Clarke Lane, Railway Street, Power Street, Walnut Street, Water Street, Fitzgerald Street, Danelle Street, Mahogany Street, Velution Street, Propense Street, Leichhardt Street, Marty Street, Jubilee Bridge (new addition)
In Nyleta – Victoria Street
In Tully – Brannigan Street, Hyatt Street
In Cardwell – Clift Road to Meunga Creek Bridge
Smart water meter installation – 100% completed in Innisfail and Tully.
Read More: Cassowary Coast