Better bridge to boost Warrego Highway

• New bridge over Jingi Jingi Creek west of Dalby to improve transport efficiency and productivity
• Works form part of the broader Warrego Highway Upgrade Programme to improve safety and efficiency along one of Australia’s key freight routes

Road safety and flood immunity on the Warrego Highway has been improved following the completion of a new bridge over Jingi Jingi Creek, around 53 kilometres west of Dalby.

Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister Darren Chester said the new concrete bridge would substantially improve the safety and reliability of the busy freight corridor.

“The expansion of the region’s mining and agricultural industries has led to a growing number of heavy vehicles on this section of the Warrego Highway. Replacing this bridge will help keep the region’s economy and jobs base growing, which is great news for local communities and businesses,” Mr Chester said.

Acting Queensland Minister for Main Roads and Road Safety Steven Miles said the safety improvements provided a more reliable route for vehicles travelling along the highway.

“Despite delays caused by weather events in March, the project was completed under budget. The Warrego Highway upgrades are providing direct employment, economic and regional development benefits, with an average of 84 direct jobs supported during the life of the Jingi Jingi bridge project,” Mr Miles said.

Federal Member for Maranoa David Littleproud said the upgrade involved a number of improvements.

“The approaches to the bridge were widened to about 11 metres, the bridge was raised and deteriorated culverts were replaced. The Australian Government contributed $25.8 million towards the $32.3 million project, which forms part of the broader Warrego Highway Upgrade Program being delivered in partnership with the Queensland Government,” Mr Littleproud said.

There is also a proposal to name the newly-completed bridge, and interested community members can provide feedback by emailing WHUP@tmr.qld.gov.au or phoning 4639 0886.

The $635 million WHUP is a package of 15 projects on the Warrego Highway, between Toowoomba and Miles and is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments on an 80:20 funding split. 

ENDS

Media Contact for Mr Miles, Dominic Geiger, 0447 355 565