New seating a boost for North Ipswich Bowls Club
CleanCo is helping ensure a much-loved North Ipswich sporting club continues to provide comfortable amenities and attract new members, sponsoring new bench seating for the bowling greens.
Operating since 1955, the North Ipswich Bowls Club has more than 100 members aged from 30 to 90 and provides a welcoming place for people of all ages – particularly older Australians – to connect, enjoy friendly competition and spend time outdoors.
Through our Community Futures Fund, CleanCo has supported the installation of additional seating, building on recent improvements such as disability ramps, shade over seating areas and new paved paths, all aimed at making the facilities more accessible and enjoyable.
With strong community spirit and members who pitch in to enhance the grounds, the club continues to thrive. CleanCo is proud to support a venue that brings such social benefit to the Ipswich community.
Sustainable energy deal strengthens Queensland coal export supply chain
The Crisafulli Government is delivering affordable, reliable and sustainable energy for Queenslanders and bolstering the competitiveness of the State’s steelmaking coking coal exports, thanks to a new deal between Government Owned Corporation (GOC) CleanCo and Aurizon.
Aurizon operates Australia’s largest electrified rail freight system, Central Queensland Coal Network, and by securing renewable energy from CleanCo it can continue operating this critical infrastructure for export industries and local communities, while lowering emissions.
CleanCo welcomes new Board Chair
CleanCo has welcomed the appointment of Susan Rix AM as Chair of the CleanCo Board.
An accomplished business leader, Ms Rix brings a strong track record of leadership across a wide range of boards and committees with extensive experience in corporate governance and strategic oversight.
She currently serves on the boards of organisations including the Queensland Academy of Sport, Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), and Queensland University of Technology (QUT), and has held many other board and advisory positions throughout her career. In 2014, Susan was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in recognition of her significant contributions to business and the community.
CleanCo Chief Executive Officer Tom Metcalfe said Ms Rix’s leadership and experience will be incredibly valuable in guiding CleanCo to deliver on its purpose.
“CleanCo has an important job to do in providing Queenslanders with energy that is affordable, reliable and sustainable,” Mr Metcalfe said.
“We look forward to working with Ms Rix as Chair to continue delivering on that purpose and to play our part in the state’s energy future.”
Mr Metcalfe also thanked outgoing Chair Allison Warburton for her service.
“As a Director and then Chair, Ms Warburton dedicated significant time and energy to the organisation. We are grateful to Ms Warburton for her leadership and contributions to CleanCo.”
Responding to odour issues at Swanbank
Published 2 October 2025
In May this year, CleanCo became aware of increased odours in the Swanbank area both through community concerns, and because many of our team also live locally.
While odours around Swanbank are not uncommon, we had never previously detected odour coming from the ash dam. However, we discovered that unusually wet weather conditions earlier in the year led to higher inflows and increased nutrient levels in the ash dam. Around the same time, a rare event called a “turnover” — where deeper layers of water mix with surface layers — disrupted the ash dam’s balance. Together, these factors resulted in odour emissions coming from the ash dam.
After engaging an independent expert to analyse our water quality data and advise on the matter, we reduced water levels in the ash dam and installed additional aerators to restore the water’s microbial balance.
We will be updating our ash dam management procedures and will continue to engage with the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) regarding odours in the region.
While we can’t promise that there won’t be odour issues in the future, we can assure you that we will always do our best to respond quickly to community concerns. We understand odours in the Swanbank area impact daily life, and we appreciate the community’s patience while we worked through this issue.
For any further questions, please email community@cleancoqld.com.au
Published 5 June 2025
CleanCo has been working closely with our neighbours, the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) and independent technical experts to better understand and address increased odour in the Swanbank area.
Weather conditions in April and May resulted in increased inflow to our ash dam, raising water levels and potentially contributing to the odour that some residents have noticed in the area. As an immediate step, CleanCo has been removing water from the ash dam to help reduce water levels and mitigate potential impacts.
We’ve also increased air and water quality testing to support investigations and here’s what we can share so far:
- Water quality in the ash dam has shown some signs of improvement, and odour levels have reduced. The installation of an additional aerator has been implemented to support these changes. Laboratory tests are ongoing to monitor nutrient levels and microbial balance.
- Expert advice is on hand. We’ve engaged environmental consultants to help identify and implement further treatment options, including long-term solutions to mitigate similar issues in the future.
CleanCo is committed to evidenced-based environmental management and will continue to undertake daily air and water quality monitoring to make sure we stay on top of the issue.
To talk to us about this matter please email community@cleancoqld.com.au
Thank you for your patience as we work through this.
Published 13 May 2025
CleanCo is aware of recent community concerns about increased odours in the Swanbank area.
Recent weather conditions have resulted in increased water inflow to our ash dam, leading to elevated water levels. While investigations are ongoing, this may be contributing to the odour being experienced.
We are working closely with our neighbours, the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) and independent technical experts to better understand and address the situation. In the meantime, CleanCo is actively removing water from the ash dam to help reduce water levels and mitigate potential impacts.
We remain committed to monitoring water and air quality closely and will continue to take responsive actions to minimise any disruption to the local community.
To talk to us about this matter please email community@cleancoqld.com.au
Thank you for your patience while we undertake this work.
Crisafulli Government delivers major investment in Wivenhoe Pumped Hydro
The Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland’s future by providing water and energy security, with an investment of more than $48 million for major works at Wivenhoe Pumped Hydro Power Station to secure reliable, affordable and sustainable energy for Queenslanders.
The investment will ensure each of Wivenhoe’s 285MW turbines will be overhauled across the next two years to maintain the station’s reliability and efficiency.
This follows Wivenhoe’s record-breaking performance in the last financial year, when the station generated more than 218 gigawatt hours in the fourth quarter alone – the highest quarterly output in its 40-year history.
Swanbank E Summer Preparedness Outage Extended
CleanCo has extended planned maintenance at Swanbank E Power Station to address cracks identified in the High Pressure Steam Bypass System during works aimed at preparing the unit for summer.
By identifying this issue and taking the time to complete the repairs safely and thoroughly, CleanCo is demonstrating the effectiveness of its process safety policies and procedures, and inspection and maintenance regimes. Undertaking this work now ensures Swanbank E can return in a condition that supports reliable operation during the summer peak.
While detailed assessments on repairs are underway, CleanCo has advised the Australian Energy Market Operator that Swanbank E is now expected to return to service on 6 October 2025.
CleanCo has a diversified generation portfolio that includes hydro, gas and renewable energy assets, ensuring we can meet customer demand and maintain support for the electricity grid during the outage.
Information on CleanCo’s outages can be found at www.cleancoqueensland.com.au/outages
Outage Timeline
Kuranda Weir Recovery Projects earns Excellence Awards acknowledgement
CleanCo’s Kuranda Weir Recovery Project has been named an Outstanding Nomination in the Engineers Australia QLD’s Project of the Year Award.
The award highlights Australia’s top endeavours in engineering and the teams behind them. The Project of the Year Award recognises a project that is resourceful and innovative and contributes to sustainable and ethical practices.
CleanCo submitted a joint entry with GHD for the award – a category that was highly competitive, with 10 other nominations. We congratulate WSP Australia and BESIX Watpac on their winning nomination for the Kangaroo Point Bridge.
Project background
When Tropical Cyclone Jasper hit far north Queensland in December 2023, it wasn’t just a weather event that significantly damaged our infrastructure – it became a test of resilience, engineering judgement, and regional leadership.
The Kuranda Weir, which controls water flowing into our Barron Gorge Power Station, suffered significant damage. About 50 metres of embankment was washed away, disconnecting the power station’s water intake and suspending operations.
The Barron River and power station are vital to local tourism. White-water rafting and other river operators rely on stable water levels and flows. Kuranda Scenic Railway, adjacent to the weir, suspended services due to infrastructure damage. Reinstatement of the weir was crucial to resuming these economic activities.
In just six months, our team designed and implemented a rockwall cofferdam to regain control and storage of the Barron River and restore 66MW of renewable generation at the Barron Gorge Power Station. Within 12 months, we had designed and delivered a new concrete embankment wall — just in time for the next wet season.
This project wasn’t just a rebuild – it has set a new benchmark for climate-adaptive infrastructure and sustainable engineering. Lessons learned from this project will inform future climate resilient efforts.
This project is a credit to the people behind it – the engineers, operators and specialists from across a range of CleanCo business areas, as well as contractors, Traditional Owners, and the Kuranda community, who worked shoulder to shoulder through a disaster recovery with precision, urgency, and care. Read more about the project.
Snacks and renewable electricity – now that’s a power combo!
Thursday, 11 September 2025
PepsiCo has signed a new agreement with CleanCo to continue to power its Queensland snack manufacturing site with 100% renewable electricity.
Under the agreement, PepsiCo will power its Brisbane snack manufacturing facility with renewable electricity from Woolooga Solar Farm near Gympie, Dulacca Wind Farm in the Western Downs and Kaban Wind Farm in Far North Queensland.
In partnership with a growing cross-section of Queensland’s largest employers, CleanCo is helping industry to decarbonise – reducing emissions, strengthening the local economy, and supporting the state’s evolving energy mix. PepsiCo joins a growing list of CleanCo customers committed to a sustainable future in Queensland.
The agreement supports PepsiCo’s global sustainability journey under its pep+ (PepsiCo Positive) strategy, an end-to-end transformation that puts sustainability, people and the planet at the heart of business growth. By continuing to power its Queensland site with renewable electricity, PepsiCo is turning ambition into action and helping to strengthen Queensland’s economy.
CleanCo Chief Executive Tom Metcalfe said PepsiCo’s decision to continue to power its Queensland operations with 100% renewable electricity is a powerful demonstration of corporate leadership in the energy transition.
“We’re proud to support PepsiCo’s sustainability ambitions with clean energy solutions powered by our renewable resources. This partnership is another example of how CleanCo is helping businesses decarbonise while creating value for their operations and communities,” Mr Metcalfe said.
“By delivering reliable, low-emission energy to some of Queensland’s largest employers, we’re supporting the decarbonisation of Queensland’s supply chains, from manufacturing and processing to distribution and retail, helping industries achieve their long-term sustainability goals.”
Quotes attributable to PepsiCo ANZ National EHS & Sustainability Manager, Brent Gapes:
“In 2021, we transitioned to 100% renewable electricity across our Sydney headquarters and three manufacturing sites in Australia,” Mr Gapes said.
“Today, we’re proud to continue that commitment by partnering with CleanCo to power our Queensland snack manufacturing site.
“As one of Australia’s largest snack manufacturers, we’re focused on reducing emissions across our entire value chain, while also supporting local businesses like CleanCo.”
ENDS
CleanCo welcomes new Board Directors
CleanCo has welcomed four new Directors to its Board, with Courtney Black, Carla Canning, Mark Gray and Professor Mark Harvey attending their first meeting with the CleanCo team this week.
Joining our fortnight All Hands, the newly appointed Directors introduced themselves, sharing a little of their professional experience and why they are eager to join the CleanCo team.
CleanCo Chief Executive Officer Tom Metcalfe said the appointments reflect the important work ahead for CleanCo.
“We have an ambitious growth agenda and a significant program of work to deliver. Our new Directors will play an important role in guiding CleanCo to help deliver affordable, reliable and sustainable energy for Queensland,” Mr Metcalfe said.
CleanCo Chair Allison Warburton said the Directors are bringing deep industry and governance experience to CleanCo.
“They have stepped straight into their new roles, taking the time to introduce themselves to the organisation and are making a valuable contribution on the various considerations in front of the Board. Their breadth of experience will be a real asset in steering CleanCo’s next chapter,” Ms Warburton said.
About our new Directors
- Courtney Black has more than 25 years’ experience in senior executive roles across the infrastructure and transport sectors, with specialist expertise in strategy, customer experience, transformation and change management.
- Carla Canning is a People & Culture specialist with over two decades of experience in human resources, leadership and workforce capability, including extensive work in the not-for-profit and community services sectors.
- Mark Gray brings deep governance and finance expertise, currently serving as Chair of Data#3 and Sugar Terminals Limited, and with a background that includes senior executive roles in the Queensland Treasury and Macquarie Bank.
- Professor Mark Harvey has held board positions across the public, private and university sectors, and brings a strong background in research, innovation and venture capital, with a track record of translating research into impactful technologies.
Ms Warburton also thanked outgoing Directors Laurene Hull, Wendy Streets, Steve Davy and Ivor Frischknecht for their contribution, leadership and guidance.
“Our former Board members guided CleanCo through a period of significant growth. Their leadership and advice have shaped the organisation we are today, and we are grateful for their service,” she said.
CleanCo looks forward to working with its new Board as it continues building a clean energy future crafted in Queensland.
Strengthening Partnerships
Behind every successful energy solution is a strong partnership, and that’s exactly what’s driving our ongoing collaboration with Coles.
Our CEO Tom Metcalfe and the CleanCo customer team had the pleasure of sitting down with Jane Mansfield, Head of Energy at Coles Group to explore what’s possible as we continue supporting their long-term decarbonisation ambitions.
As we work alongside Coles and many of our customers, our focus remains on shaping bespoke, forward-looking energy solutions that grow with their business and respond to a changing market.
At CleanCo, progress isn’t measured in megawatts. It’s measured in the relationships we build, the trust we earn, and the outcomes we deliver together for Queensland’s industries and communities.