$17.6m replacement water tank to enhance water security for Karratha
Water Minister Dave Kelly, Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel and Water Corporation Service Delivery Manager at the new Karratha water tank.
- 20-million-litre concrete tank to better protect community water supply for Karratha
- Replaces 39-year-old steel tank damaged by Tropical Cyclone Damien in 2020
- $372.2 million committed to North-West water projects over the next four years
Water Minister Dave Kelly has today announced the completion of a 20-million-litre concrete water tank in Karratha, which will help safeguard the city's water supply during extreme weather events.
The $17.6 million project - funded by the McGowan Government through Water Corporation - has seen the replacement of the city's original steel tank, which was damaged beyond repair during Tropical Cyclone Damien in February, 2020.
At 42 metres in diameter, the new tank has durable 15.5-metre concrete walls and a concrete roof - providing increased resilience during intense storms and cyclones, and requiring less maintenance.
The project was completed by Western Australian contractor SRG Global, with Karratha-based, Aboriginal-owned company Yurra undertaking roadworks - and assisting with earthworks.
In the 2022-23 State Budget, the McGowan Government allocated $372.2 million over the next four years for new regional water infrastructure projects in the State's North-West.
Comments attributed to Water Minister Dave Kelly:
"This new tank represents a significant investment in protecting Karratha's water supply during extreme weather events, which we know are becoming increasingly intense due to climate change.
"This investment is part of the McGowan Government's commitment to regional water and wastewater infrastructure projects - with more than $820 million allocated to new projects over the next four years, including $372.2 million in the North-West."
Comments attributed to Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:
"Using concrete instead of steel has significantly improved the durability of the tank, helping to secure the community's water supply for decades to come.
"I welcome this investment in essential services by the McGowan Government - which demonstrates its commitment to delivering reliable water services in regional communities, and creating local employment opportunities."
Minister's office - 6552 6100
Karratha water tank fact file
- 20 million litres potable water capacity
- Measures 42 metres in diameter and 15.5 metres high
- 942 cubic metres of concrete were used for the base and panels of tank
- Tank walls were formed from 28 concrete panels, each weighing 55 tonnes - and four buttress panels, each weighing 70 tonnes
- Concrete base slab pour was completed by 48 people, and took 17 hours
- The project was completed by a team of 60 contractors and sub-contractors
- Concrete tank has an expected lifespan of 100 years