Massive pipeline project takes shape

Another 500 massive 1.8 metre diameter glass reinforced composite pipes are en route by ship from Adelaide to Townsville as part of the ambitious Haughton Pipeline Duplication Project.

The second of six shipments, manufactured at RPC Group’s Adelaide factory, the Flowtite GRP pipes will make up a 36.5 kilometre pipeline from the Haughton Pump Station to the Ross River Dam.

Designed as part of a $225 million scheme to augment Townsville’s water supplies, the pipes were supplied by RPC’s Australian distributor, Iplex Pipelines, which has commenced ground works along the planned route.

Iplex general manager, Nicole Sumich said the company was proud to secure local water supplies and create local jobs.

Tony Caristo, Managing Director of RPC Technologies said the company would create 15 to 20 jobs at its new factory in Townsville which will manufacture fixtures and fittings for the pipeline.

The company has been advertising for production and administration staff.

Iplex will also recommence manufacture of other pipe products from its local facility in Bohle.

Townsville City Council estimates 50 advanced manufacturing jobs would be created as part of the project.

The Queensland government is funding the water security projects, which also include a recycled water re-use system for public greenspaces and industrial use.

Picture: Iplex/RPC pipe loading, Adelaide

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