Work has started on a $30 million upgrade that will progressively seal 27 kilometres of north-western Queensland's Aramac-Torrens Creek Road and improve the Prairie Creek Crossing.
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Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said the Australian Government had partnered with Flinders Shire Council to help deliver these works.
"Aramac-Torrens Creek Road supports the economic development of Northern Australia, providing an important north-south link between three key highways on the national network, including the Flinders, Landsborough and Capricorn highways," Mr McCormack said.
"It links Townsville and Rockhampton to Barcaldine, Longreach, Winton, Cloncurry and Hughenden.
"This upgrade will improve road safety by providing a sealed road of eight metres in width catering for heavy loads and freight vehicles, as well as improved flood immunity for the length of the road."
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the upgrade was a welcome project providing a boost to the local economy and long-term benefits.
"More than 30 direct jobs will be supported by this project, with Flinders Shire Council to complete the works," Minister Bailey said.
"At the completion of the progressive sealing of the Aramac-Torrens Creek Road, up to 247 kilometres will be sealed and the Prairie Creek Crossing improved, which is an incredible outcome for the community."
Flinders Shire Council Mayor Jane McNamara said the funding was welcome after years of lobbying for the sealing of this freight link, which would help to build up regional communities.
"To hear we got this funding and then to have works starting on the ground is really special for the community and our workforce," Cr McNamara said.
"Having a consistent connection through the year gives certainty to the community, business and industries."
Works started in February and are expected to be completed by June 2022, weather permitting.
For the sealing works, the Australian Government contributed $16 million and the Queensland Government $4 million.
For the Prairie Creek Crossing, the Australian Government contributed $8 million and the Queensland Government $2 million.
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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.
