Stretching from Moranbah to Townsville the pipeline is being laid at about four to six kilometres each day after construction began this month.

The associated upgrade of the 160MW Yabulu Power Station is also running to plan with the plant expected to be fully operational by the end of 2005. Owner operator Transfield originally signed a 15-year Power Purchase Agreement with Queensland Transmission and Supply Corporation (Enertrade) in 1996.

Townsville City Council co-ordination and policy committee member Cr John Robertson said the gas-fired power station would provide a great boost to regional development in and around the twin cities.