The construction contract has been awarded for major upgrades to the Pioneer River Levee system to improve flood protection for Mackay residents and businesses (on Queensland's central coast).

The project is funded by $6.1 million from the Albanese Government’s Priority Community Infrastructure Program and $555,225 from the Disaster Ready Fund along with $12.7 million from Mackay Regional Council.

A new levee wall will be constructed along with stormwater upgrades, road reconstruction and revegetation works. 

The existing levee will be extended along the southern bank of the Pioneer River adjacent to West Mackay.

This will include flood gates at key access points for activation when flooding is imminent. 

The masonry block wall will be decorated with coloured feature blocks and landscape plantings will provide a natural visual buffer at select locations.

Local contractor Pentacon has been awarded the tender to undertake the works.

Construction is expected to begin in mid-June 2026 and be completed by December 2026, weather permitting. 

Works will be delivered in stages with advance notice to minimise impacts on residents and businesses. Access to properties will be maintained throughout construction and the Mackay cemetery will remain open.

For more information, visit connectingmackay.com.au or contact Mackay Regional Council on 1300 MACKAY.

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

“Flooding has a devastating impact on homes and businesses, and this extension will provide protection for the Mackay community. 

“We’re working with councils like Mackay to fund projects that strengthen our regional towns and help them bounce back quicker in hard times.”

Quotes attributable to Federal Assistant Minister for Northern Australia and Senator for Queensland Nita Green:

“Using savvy design and local contractors, these upgrades will provide peace of mind for the community offering vital property protection during floods.

“This is the result of good collaboration between the council and the Australian Government listening to what northern Australians need improve their lives.”

Quotes attributable to the Mayor of Mackay Greg Williamson:

“This levee extension is an important step in strengthening Mackay’s flood resilience and safeguarding homes, businesses and key infrastructure, especially for the urban area south of the Pioneer River. 

“We know how significant flood events can be for our region and this project will provide greater peace of mind for residents by reducing risk and improving community resilience.

“Council is committed to delivering infrastructure that not only protects our community from future flood events but also enhances the liveability of our city through thoughtful design and landscaping.”