CROSS BORDER COLLABORATION SECURES WATER SUPPLY FOR MUNGINDI

Published on 27 May 2025

On 28 May 2025, the Balonne Shire Council will join with the Moree Plains Shire Council and the New South Wales Government to launch the Mungindi Water Security Project, which secures an ongoing water supply for the residents of the cross-border town of Mungindi on the border of Queensland and New South Wales.

The project provides an additional secure water supply for this cross-border town with the establishment of an artesian bore on the Queensland side of Mungindi, improving water quality, supply and pressure on both sides of the border.

Collaborative funding for the project totalled $1,475,852.00, which included a contribution of $418,713 from Balonne Shire Council and $1,057,139 of grant funding from the New South Wales Government.

The project involved detailed investigation work, the development of a business case by a consultant hydrologist, community consultation and relevant government approvals.

Balonne Shire Mayor Samantha O’Toole said this important project was a unique opportunity to support the community in the cross-border town of Mungindi.

“Prior to this project, the township of Mungindi drew its water supply from the Moree Plains Shire Reservoir in New South Wales,” Mayor O’Toole said.

“In the last major drought, Mungindi was on crippling water restrictions due to limited supply from the NSW bore and adding the additional bore will allow supply to be supplemented when it is low to ensure water security for Mungindi into the future.

“This project will improve water security and supply, which will benefit Mungindi on both sides of the border, eliminating the risk of water shortages that are critical for population retention, as well as agricultural and tourism development.

“Establishing an artesian bore in the Mungindi Queensland locale and connecting it to the Moree Plains Shire Council’s Mungindi Water Treatment Plant, supports our commitment to develop sustainable, secure and healthy water resources for our communities.

“We are looking forward to joining with the local community to launch this project.”

The local community are welcome to attend the official opening of the Mungindi Water Security Project at the Mungindi borehead on Barwon Street, Mungindi at 9:00am on 28 May 2025.