Trucks to stay high and dry through Gympie

A critical supply route will be upgraded for heavy vehicles heading south from Gympie through the Newman Government’s record investment in flood and disaster mitigation projects to protect Queensland communities.

Local Government, Community Recovery and Resilience Minister David Crisafulli said a 140 metre section of River Road will be raised as part of the $640,000 project.

“This type of infrastructure is desperately needed in Gympie with floods striking the town five times in the past two years,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“Trucks driving this route are the lifeblood of Queensland.

“The project will allow semi-trailers heading southbound to bypass the Inglewood Bridge when Deep Creek floods.

“This will mean traffic can move up to six hours earlier than usual following a flood event.”

The River Road upgrade is part of a major state-wide investment in projects that include new levees and temporary flood barriers, road-raising, major drainage and stormwater upgrades, improvements to evacuation routes and the installation of rainfall and river height warning systems.  

“Our strong plan to protect Queensland communities means we are working with local councils to literally move heaven and earth to protect and prepare homes and livelihoods,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“Queenslanders have been pushed to the brink in the past few years and we are doing everything we can to not only protect them but make them stronger.

“The works will also provide a much-needed financial boost to communities through jobs and lower insurance premiums.

“Disasters can strike at any time but the Newman Government’s strong plan to protect communities for the long term will ensure a brighter future for all Queenslanders.”

[ENDS] 18 June 2014

Media Contact: Andrew Longmire 0418 216 627