GEORGETOWN and Forsayth will have access to a more reliable water supply with funding allocated for the final stage of the Charleston Dam project in Far North Queensland.
The federal government has committed an additional $3 million toward the water project, which has been under construction since 2017.
It comes after the commonwealth committed $10 million to the project in 2016.
The dam, which located about six kilometres downstream of Forsayth and about 31 kilometres upstream of Georgetown on the Delaney River will be used principally for town water supply and agricultural purposes.
When complete the dam will provide 100ML of water per year to the Forsayth township and 500ML of water to Georgetown.
However, the Etheridge Shire Council has also flagged its intention to provide recreational facilities at the dam.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the project would deliver a more reliable water supply to strengthen the Georgetown and Forsayth communities.
"Water is the lifeblood of our nation and we owe it to our regional producers and communities to deliver long-term, sustainable water infrastructure so they can continue to grow the world's best food and fibre," Mr McCormack said.
"This particular project will be critical in supporting the local agricultural and clean energy industry and will help to build resilience to drought.
"The extra funding available demonstrates the government's commitment to building the water infrastructure of the 21st Century and supporting regional communities to prosper and grow, especially those in Far North Queensland."
North Queensland-based LNP Senator Susan McDonald, who visited the dam site late last year, said while the primary purpose of the project was to bolster water supplies for local communities, it will also provide a recreation area for locals to enjoy.
"Local infrastructure projects such as this are critical to boosting economic growth and improving facilities for locals and visitors alike," Senator McDonald said.
"We know the key to unlocking the potential of regional Australia is simple - just add water.
"If our regions have access to secure water our towns prosper and our agricultural industries thrive."
Kennedy MP Bob Katter said he was pleased the funding had been forthcoming.
"I want to thank the federal government for agreeing to fund this, and I'd also like to thank the last two mayors there who have driven me personally crazy about getting this project up, and for good reason," Mr Katter said.
"Forsayth services Cobbold Gorge which is one of the leading tourism attractions in Queensland.
"So this is a tremendous win not just for the residents of that town but also the future prosperity of a growing tourism region.
"The timing of the funding, around $3 million, means the construction of the dam can be completed before the next wet season."
The funding is in addition to $10 million already provided to Etheridge Shire Council for the project and is subject to the council providing relevant documentation in accordance with program guidelines.
