Unitywater has relined wastewater pipes in Eatons Hill as part of a major program to improve wastewater systems, reduce odour, and prevent overflows across South East Queensland.
Background and Context
Over two years, Unitywater has renewed 53 kilometres of wastewater pipelines and 317 maintenance holes across Moreton Bay, the Sunshine Coast, and Noosa. The work forms part of a $400 million replacements and renewals program spanning five years.
Within the Moreton Bay region, 26 kilometres of pipes—roughly the distance between Morayfield and Redcliffe—have been relined, with 91 maintenance holes renewed.
Eatons Hill’s section included 29.8 metres of relined wastewater pipe, while nearby Deception Bay saw 74.3 metres completed.
How the Relining Works
Instead of replacing ageing pipelines through excavation, Unitywater crews are relining existing pipes using trenchless technology. The process involves spiral PVC lining and a cured-in-place polymer UV liner, which seals the inner surface of pipes without digging.
This approach is more cost-efficient, reduces traffic and noise disruptions, and limits emissions compared to full pipe replacement.
Preventing Corrosion and Overflows
Hydrogen sulphide, a gas produced naturally within wastewater, can cause corrosion over time. The relining program addresses this by reinforcing internal pipe surfaces and renewing affected maintenance holes.
Unitywater’s proactive network management uses CCTV inspections, jet blasting, and tree root removal to detect and resolve issues early. Some maintenance holes are also elevated to prevent stormwater infiltration during heavy rainfall.
Keeping stormwater and wastewater separate reduces the risk of overflows into private properties or the environment.
Benefits for Eatons Hill and the Region
The program helps improve reliability and efficiency while minimising disruption to local residents. By extending the lifespan of existing infrastructure, Unitywater reduces future repair costs and supports environmental protection in Eatons Hill and surrounding areas.
Ongoing Investment
These works are part of Unitywater’s broader $2 billion investment over five years to enhance water and wastewater services for more than 800,000 residents across South East Queensland. The organisation plans to continue its renewal projects to ensure safe, efficient, and sustainable service delivery.
Published 7-Oct-2025
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