The Queensland Government has today broken ground on Powerlink Queensland’s CopperString 2032 project, marking the start of works for North Queensland’s largest regional development project.
Work on the CopperString projects’ first and largest workforce accommodation site in Hughenden, which will house those charged with building the 840km high voltage transmission line which is set to unlock world-class renewable resources and critical minerals, is now officially underway.
“CopperString will be the catalyst for transforming Queensland’s North and North West – opening up mining opportunities, creating more jobs and unlocking critical minerals which will be essential in developing renewable technologies,” said Premier, Steven Miles.
“This is the start of a long and exciting future for the region and our state.”
ATCO Structures will deliver the workforce accommodation, which is due to be completed by early 2025.
The workforce accommodation will house up to 550 construction workers at its peak. These workers will construct a nearby substation and progress early stages of the transmission line development heading west from Hughenden out to Mt Isa.
Construction includes site preparation and civil works, as well as installation and maintenance of accommodation quarters over the site’s five year life span.
Since acquiring the project, Powerlink Queensland has powered on with progress and recently announced the purchase of significant equipment critical to the delivery of the project, including shunt reactors, transformers and high voltage powerline.
A 100-strong project team has also been established, alongside Joint Venture partners UGL and CPB Contractors, with all detailed design on the transmission corridor well underway.
“CopperString is supercharging North Queensland jobs, industry and economic future, and today’s ground breaking is a further demonstration of why having a plan for Queensland’s future really matters,” said Energy Minister, Mick de Brenni.
“The renewable energy transition presents the biggest jobs opportunity our state has ever seen, and with the majority of Queensland’s clean economy jobs based in regional Queensland, towns like Hughenden will be some of the first to benefit.
“We’re powering ahead with this transformational project, and with the kick off of construction on workforce accommodation, Hughenden, and the Flinders Shire can look forward to a big boost in economic opportunity as the central hub for about 500 workers in clean economy jobs.
“The thousands of jobs and millions of dollars’ worth of economic opportunities CopperString will deliver would be at risk under an LNP Government, whose only plan is to cut this project.”
At a historic ceremony at Hughenden today, Powerlink was officially welcomed by Traditional Owners, the Yirendali People. This was the first time in more than 50 years some of the remaining Elders have returned to their Country, made possible by CopperString.
“CopperString will be calling Hughenden home for the next five years,” said Powerlink Chief Executive, Paul Simshauser.
“This is a significant milestone for this project marked at a historic ceremony in Hughenden today, and is testament to more than twelve months of hard work to get the project to this stage by the CopperString project team.
“It was a personal highlight to see the meaning of being back on Country to the Yirendali People, a clear indication that our team are committed to respecting local communities and building a lasting legacy for generations.
“We are proud to be building the future of North Queensland, starting right here in Hughenden,” he said.
Commencing later this month, Powerlink will be offering free sessions for businesses along the CopperString corridor to build their capabilities.
The program includes five workshops and one-on-one assistance to help businesses build confidence to bid on major projects and supply chain work in the region.
The first workshop is in Hughenden on July 23, followed by Richmond on July 25. For more information and to register, either call 1800 635 369 or visit powerlink.com.au/CopperString2032.
Work on the high-voltage transmission line is due to commence mid-2025 from Hughenden, travelling west towards Mount Isa. Once complete, work will then commence on the Eastern portion of the line from Hughenden back to Townsville.
Construction on workforce accommodation at Richmond will commence in September this year.
