Known as the Wine Glass, Julia Creek’s iconic water tower is set for a makeover.
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Built in 1971, the 30m high tower sports its distinctive shape to enhance water pressure and to cool the artesian water that comes out of the ground at 60°C.
In 2004, the tower was illuminated in blue at night and now McKinlay Shire Council is looking at opening it up as a tourism attraction. Aside from the rigorous climb to the top, other experiences could include sunset nibblies, abseiling, or morning yoga on Julia Creek’s highest vantage point.
It’s a long way from the tower’s humble beginnings. Construction was overseen by Townsville man, Geoff Yallop, who with wife Gail, recently visited Julia Creek.
Mr Yallop recalls long days and tough working conditions. As well as building a tall structure before the advent of harnessing systems and other safety precautions, Mr Yallop remembers receiving routine deliveries of concrete via rail.
“There were 22 tonnes of concrete per wagon and we would unload all three wagons by hand,” he said.
“The day we poured the base of the tower, we started at 5am and finished at 4am the next day.”
It was not all hard work though. Mr Yallop and the crew of about eight were accommodated at Gannon’s Hotel.