For the first time in three weeks the entire road from Mount Isa to Townsville is open to traffic.
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The Flinders Highway from Richmond to Julia Creek reopened to traffic Wednesday with speed restrictions after record rain and flooding meaning motorists no longer have to detour via Winton to get between the North West and the coast.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the reopening of the Flinders Highway followed the fast-tracking of critical repairs.
“I visited the North-west to witness the impact of record, severe flooding on the region’s road network and saw entire sections of highway had been washed away,” Mr Bailey said.
“I want to thank the road work teams who have worked hard in hot and challenging conditions to get the Flinders Highway back on line.”
Mr Bailey said repairs would continue on the 150 kilometre section of the highway between Julia Creek and Richmond.
“Reopening the Flinders Highway is an important step in the region’s recovery,” he said.
“The severity of the damage to the highway means there’s still more work to be done.
“Road works are continuing with speed restrictions and traffic control measures in place.
“Motorists using the Flinders Highway should drive to the road conditions and allow extra time for unavoidable delays.”
The rail line remains closed likely until May.
READ ALSO: Time for real action in the North West
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Derek Barry
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
