“I have spoken to Water Utilities Minister Nathan Rees about this matter, and he indicated he would be willing to take the proposal to the Federal Government in an attempt to secure infrastructure funding,” the independent MP said.

“I hope that Tamworth Regional Council will defer any decision on the pipeline while all possible funding avenues, through both state and federal authorities, are explored.

“It is obvious the Barraba community will need co-operation at all levels to bring their vision to reality, similar to the co-operation that recently secured Goulburn’s water supply.”

Mr Draper has told the Parliament of the dismay expressed by Barraba residents when it was announced a recommendation in the business papers earlier this week that the council not proceed with the Split Rock Dam pipeline option as a raw water source for Barraba on the basis of the high capital cost.

“After 14 years of discussion and investigation the recommendation was like a kick in the teeth to the community leaders and other visionaries who have vigorously pursued a permanent solution to Barraba’s water supply problems,” Mr Draper told Parliament.

He told the House: “Cost has always been put up as the major obstacle to this project. In 1994 the Department of Public Works and Services recommended a pipeline from Split Rock Dam, costed then at $3.36 million, as the preferred option for a secure, quality water

supply.

“Two years ago a State Government report gave an indicative costing of $6.6 million, while Thursday’s council meeting will be told that over $15

million is the current estimate – and that is for town supply only, not a provision for industrial development.

“I am sure that the money spent on reports and emergency measures has far exceeded the 1994 $3.6 million pipeline costing, and yet Barraba still doesn’t have a satisfactory, guaranteed, safe domestic supply, let alone one that would attract industry,” he said.

“A pipeline from Split Rock Dam has always been identified as the most expensive option but it is the only guarantee of secure supply for Barraba. It is a project that should be supported by all tiers of government so it can be built.”