A $25 million upgrade of the Landsborough Highway between Longreach and Winton is now complete, improving travel times and safety for motorists.
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Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Longreach North Upgrade recognised the importance of the Landsborough Hwy which provides a crucial link between Brisbane and Darwin.
"The Landsborough Highway is the principal north-south route serving western Queensland and a key tourism route and vital supply chain connecting businesses to markets," Mr McCormack said.
"This investment ensures the highway can safely keep pace with increasing demands from a broad mix of industries, boosting economic confidence and generating prosperity for our regions and northern Australia well into the future."
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the project included widening a 25 kilometre section of the highway to nine metres in width, strengthening the surface and upgrading drainage.
"The project has delivered a safer, smoother road to travel along with wider lanes and better flood immunity, especially at Dingo Creek and other low-lying areas," Mr Bailey said.
"This will enhance economic productivity by improving travel times, which is a big gain for the livestock and freight industries.
"The project also contributed to job creation with an average of 68 direct jobs supported over the life of the project."
Senator for Queensland Susan McDonald said the project formed part of the Australian Government's broader commitment to developing the North.
"The road between Longreach and Winton is critical for the drive tourism market that both towns have done such a terrific job of developing," she said.
"Tourists can fly to Longreach but need to drive to Winton to access the Age of Dinosaurs exhibit and Waltzing Matilda Centre, so it's an important link."
The Longreach North Upgrade is funded on an 80:20 basis with Australian and Queensland Government contributions of $20 million and $5 million, respectively.
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