: News Article

Army muscle sought to replace tank

15/04/2004

NQ Water has made an appeal for Australian Defence Force muscle to help fix an outstanding water issue on Magnetic Island.

A balancing tank servicing Horseshoe Bay has been leaking for some time and attempts to replace it have been frustrated by hitches in the tender process.

Chief Executive Officer Ken Diehm said NQ Water was looking at having to re-issue calls for tenders.

Mr Diehm says the army option has been canvassed through the office of the Member for Herbert and Peter Lindsay has taken up the cause.

“NQ Water is in a difficult situation; we awarded the tender in good faith as per the Local Government Act only to find the contractor was unable to deliver,” Mr Diehm said.

“NQ Water is now obliged to re-tender which is a process that could take months. Time is of the essence and we want to avoid any further delay.

“We realise this is an extraordinary request and we are grateful that Mr Lindsay is going into bat for us.”

Mr Lindsay is presently following through on correspondence to the defence minister advocating quick action by local units which could include 5 Aviation Regiment based at RAAF Base Garbutt.

The balancing tank works to ensure consistent supply to Horseshoe Bay through demand peaks and troughs. A replacement tank weighs around 1000kg and holds 47kl. It has a four metre diameter and stands 3.5m tall.

The decision to replace the balancing tank was made late last year after several failed attempts to repair leaks in the existing storage.

© 2004 NQ Water