What’s Happening?
Powerlink has appointed Zinfra to build a Central Queensland transmission line and upgrade Calvale Substation. The line will connect Calvale, near Callide Power Station, with the new Gladstone West Substation, south of Mount Larcom.
Construction is under way across the wider project.
Why It Matters
Powerlink says reinforcing the transmission line between Calvale and Calliope River is critical as the power system changes.
“We are proud to partner with Zinfra to construct this section of transmission line,” Powerlink chief executive Dr Seán Mc Goldrick said. “Zinfra brings the capability and technical expertise to help deliver this essential upgrade to the electricity network.”
By The Numbers
- More than $1 million has been spent with local businesses since August as clearing and access work began.
- More than 126 businesses attended supplier sessions across Biloela, Gladstone and Rockhampton, held in partnership with State Development.
- Nine local businesses are negotiating with Powerlink’s delivery partners after connecting through those sessions.
Local Impact
Rockhampton businesses heard directly from Powerlink’s delivery partners at a session held with State Development. They received tips on tendering for project work. Similar sessions took place in Biloela and Gladstone.
“Our team conducted a series of sessions where local businesses heard from our delivery partners and learnt tips on how to tender,” Dr Mc Goldrick said. “The sessions were delivered in partnership with State Development, attended by more than 126 businesses across Biloela, Gladstone and Rockhampton.”
Dr Mc Goldrick said Powerlink was also focused on local spending and employment as construction progressed.
“Clearing and access work has commenced across the project with more than $1 million spent with local businesses already,” he said. “We have also seen locals employed directly to support the project and we expect that to strengthen as our delivery partners progress with their work.”
Zinfra managing director Peter Iancov said the company wanted the work to benefit regional communities and suppliers.
“By working closely with Powerlink, local communities and regional suppliers, we also want the benefits of this project to extend beyond the infrastructure itself and create value for the region.”
The spending and attendance figures cover the wider project and all three session locations. Powerlink has not provided a separate breakdown for Rockhampton.
Zoom In
Zinfra will work alongside CPP and BMD, which are delivering the remaining works.
“They will work closely with CPP and BMD, who are delivering the remainder of the works,” Dr Mc Goldrick said. “With our delivery partners locked in, we are on track and well positioned to deliver this critical project for the power system.”
Zoom Out
Mr Iancov said the project would strengthen the electricity network while supporting growing demand and renewable generation.
“We look forward to working alongside Powerlink to safely deliver this critical infrastructure project for Central Queensland strengthening network reliability, supporting growing energy demand, and unlocking new renewable generation capacity across the region,” he said.
What To Look For Next?
Powerlink expects more locals to gain work as its delivery partners progress. Regional businesses are also continuing discussions about possible project work.
Updates are available on Powerlink’s Central Queensland project page.
