Finding hidden leaks to protect our region’s water supply

Published on 10 November 2026

We’ve taken a proactive approach to reduce water waste and protect the Cassowary Coast's drinking water supply, with specialist leak detection surveys helping us identify hidden leaks across 455 kilometres of our water network.

The project, coordinated and funded by the Far North Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils (FNQROC), brought together Cassowary Coast, Hinchinbrook, Tablelands and Mareeba councils to access specialist leak detection services.

Contractors using specialised acoustic equipment were able to identify leaks in underground water mains that may not be visible at the surface, giving our crews more accurate information to plan and prioritise repairs.

One of the largest leaks identified locally was along Tully Heads Road, where water was escaping from a main in overgrown bushland. Our crews repaired the leak within 24 hours of being notified.

Cassowary Coast Mayor Teresa Millwood said the project was an important step in reducing lost water and looking after the infrastructure our community relies on every day.

"Providing safe, reliable drinking water is an essential service, and that means continually looking for ways to improve how we manage and maintain our network," Mayor Millwood said.

"Some leaks can go unnoticed because they occur underground or in areas where water isn't visible at the surface.”

"By having access to this specialist technology, we were able to identify where treated water was being lost, and schedule priority works to fix leaks at these locations.”

"There's always work to do when it comes to maintaining an extensive water network, and this project gives us better information to guide that work," Mayor Millwood said.

If you suspect a leak on public land visit our website and click ‘Report and issue’ or call Council directly on 1300 763 903.

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