We’re continuing to make steady progress on the new outfall pipeline at Shipwrights Point, an important part of our commitment to improving environmental outcomes for the region. As we head into the festive season, here’s an update on how things are tracking.

A Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) rig is being used to install the new pipeline 260 metres offshore, south of Shipwrights Point, at a depth of around 13 metres on the riverbed.

Pilot hole completed

We recently reached a key milestone, successfully drilling the pilot hole to within 20 metres of the future outfall pipeline’s offshore exit point.

Moving into the reaming stage

With the pilot hole complete, our crews have now begun the next major step in the HDD process, known as reaming.

Reaming is the gradual enlargement of the pilot hole to allow the new pipeline to be safely installed. The pilot hole is intentionally drilled small so we can guide the path with precision.

During reaming, specialised tools are pushed through the hole to gently cut and shape it to the required diameter.

This step is important because it:

• prepares the pathway for the new pipe, ensuring the opening is the right size
• supports a smoother, safer final pull-back of the pipeline

Reaming is a normal part of HDD construction and signals that work is progressing as planned.

What’s next

• Assembling the new outfall pipeline and installation in January 2026.

Holiday shutdown

As with many construction projects, our sites will close for a short break from 19 December 2025, reopening on 5 January 2026.

Looking ahead

Once the outfall pipeline is installed, we’ll begin the next major phase, constructing a 4.3-kilometre pipeline along the Huon Highway between the Geeveston Sewage Treatment Plant and Shipwrights Point.

This work is expected to start towards the end of the first quarter of 2026.

We’ll also begin work on a new 79-kilolitre emergency storage tank and pump station at the treatment plant.

We understand this project has been of strong community interest and appreciate your patience and support as we deliver this essential upgrade to protect the environment and support the region’s future.

Project Information

We’ve added some other project information on our page:

• A project fact sheet
• The proposed 4.3-kilometre pipeline route (subject to final design)
• Concept artwork of the HDD work site location

If you’d like to know more, please contact our Capital Engagement team on 13 6992 or email capitalprojects@taswater.com.au.