Minister inspects bridge repairs on Dawson Highway

Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports, and Minister for Energy and Water Supply Mark Bailey today inspected flood-damaged Collards Creek Bridge on the Dawson Highway, east of Biloela.

Minister Bailey said repairs to the bridge were progressing well, with road crews working hard to reinstate the bridge approaches.

“While a detour is in place for light vehicles via Coal Road, I appreciate the need to get the bridge open as soon as possible and I thank the local community for their patience while this work is being carried out,” Mr Bailey said.

The Minister said initial assessments determined that more than 400 kilometres of the state-owned road network in the region had been impacted by the might of the cyclone.  

“As soon as it was safe to do so, Main Roads crews undertook inspections of the roads, bridges and other critical infrastructure.

“Initial reports revealed significant damage at Collards Creek Bridge and minor damage at Poor Man’s Gully on the Burnett Highway, south of Biloela.

“The eastern approach to Collards Creek Bridge had been washed away and at Poor Man’s Gully, flooding caused minor damage to structural work that had been undertaken late last year.”

Mr Bailey said while most of the state-owned roads were now operational, there were fallen trees and potential hazards on some roads in the region.

“All agencies are working tirelessly to repair the roads. They’re putting in a mighty effort, working in what can sometimes be difficult conditions, and for that we owe them a debt of gratitude.

“The cyclone caused extensive damage across many parts of the state and it’s reassuring to know that all of our agencies, including electricity and road workers, are working hard to put things right.

The detour via Coal’s Road will remain in place until the Dawson Highway reopens in coming weeks. 

For up-to-date information on road conditions, roadworks and other traffic information, visit www.131940.qld.gov.au or call 13 19 40.

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