The Wide Bay natural gas transmission pipeline in Queensland has been damaged by flood waters in the area where it crosses beneath the Burnett River, north of Bundaberg, Queensland, according to owner Envestra.
This will result in the complete replacement of the pipeline under the river. Envestra is currently in the process of replacing approximately 500 m of pipe.
APA Group crews are on-site and the 500 m of pipe is being welded and will be installed using directional boring equipment. The boring equipment is also on-site and has commenced the drilling process.
In addition to the permanent repair, APA has been investigating various temporary options that would potentially provide an interim supply of natural gas to a limited number of critical customers.
The 114 mm diameter, 274 km long Wide Bay Pipeline transports gas from Maryborough to Rockhampton via Bundaburg and Gladstone in Queensland. It was completed, commissioned and last pigged in 2000. The pipeline has a capacity of 6.2 TJ/d.
Reconnection of residential customers began on Saturday 9 February and the project is on track to complete the permanent replacement of the damaged pipe by 14 February.