The funding for the first phase of the project is given to regional development group, the Mount Isa to Townsville Economic Zone (MITEZ), which last year applied for the Australian Government’s National Water Infrastructure Development Fund. 

The project’s management committee includes Cloncurry mayor Greg Campbell and Dr Romy Greiner, appointed by MITEZ to coordinate the project. 

Dr Greiner is a James Cook University professor and a natural resource economist with a strong international scientific reputation.

Her experience in water management includes serving as chair of the Northern Territory Water Resources Review Committee.

She has conducted applied benefit-cost analysis and agricultural economic investigations.

MITEZ president David Glasson said a technical advisory panel made up of three people had been formed to provide advice to the project team and to provide feedback on the consultant’s reports. 

Mr Glasson said the committee advertised for expressions of interest from experienced consultants who may be engaged to carry out the various elements of the feasibility study.

Cr Campbell said the study examines environmental and economic criteria which will decide if it was even possible to build the dam. 

”One of the main drivers for a major storage on the Cloncurry River is to provide sufficient, affordable water to develop an irrigated agriculture precinct, additional water for industry and water security for our communities, which is essential if we are to further develop the north,” Cr Campbell said. 

“We know how important water is to development and industry growth,” the mayor said.

Cr Campbell recently announced that his council now owned two dams in the shire. 

“And if the completed feasibility study indicates a dam on the Cloncurry River is viable, this will enable proponents to apply to the Commonwealth’s Water Infrastructure Fund for a contribution towards construction of the dam.”