Motorists asked for patience as repairs begin

Motorists are urged to continue delaying non-essential travel in flood-affected areas as road crews assess damage and arrange essential repairs.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said assessments were being conducted as quickly as the receding floodwaters would allow, and motorists needed to be patient if they intended to travel.

“The Bruce Highway north and south of Ingham reopened yesterday, while some parts of the state’s north-west are still flood-affected,” Mr Bailey said.

“Safety remains our priority and it is inevitable that after flooding of this magnitude, parts of the Bruce Highway, and other major inland routes, will need repairs.

“RoadTek crews and TMR inspectors are getting on with the job of assessing damage and prioritising repairs. I’d urge motorists to be aware essential services are working hard in these regions and be patient if delays are experienced.

“Motorists can expect potholes and some surface damage, so it is vital they drive to conditions, obey all warning signs and phone 13 19 40 to report any safety hazards.

“In the Far North District, TMR is undertaking further investigations into a large crack on the Palmerston Highway, where the road is currently closed to one lane. These investigations will determine what treatments are required to repair the road.

“Geotechnical engineers are also assessing landslip sites on various roads, including Palmerston Highway, Gillies Range Road and Kennedy Highway.”

Mr Bailey said floodwaters had impacted the Bruce Highway, north of Ingham, and repairs were being carried out.

“The stretch of highway at Gairloch, 6km north of Ingham, is currently under speed reduction due to road damage,” Mr Bailey said.

“Other areas between Ingham and the Cardwell Range have sustained some damage, including pot holes, and our road crews continue to remove debris and make repairs.

“In the north-west of the state, many roads are still flood affected, however we have inspectors and local government authorities assessing damage as the flood recedes.

“The Burke Developmental Road, north of Normanton, is still under a significant amount of water and is expected to be closed for a lengthy period.”

Mr Bailey said he was greatly appreciative for the tireless efforts of road crews who were on the ground mopping up after such a major weather event.

Motorists in flood-affected areas are urged to remember that if it’s flooded, forget it.

For the latest road closure information, please check Qldtraffic online at www.qldtraffic.qld.gov.au, using the free app for iPhone or Android, or by phone on 13 19 40.

To help Queenslanders affected by the recent severe weather in North Queensland, natural disaster assistance may be available on some transport services.

Visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au and search for ‘Natural disaster assistance’ for more information on assistance provided by TMR.

ENDS

Media contact:          Dominic Geiger, 0447355565