Upgrade for gravel road hazard at Chillagoe

Motorists entering Chillagoe on the Burke Developmental Road will soon enjoy improved road conditions along the town’s eastern approach.

Main Roads Minister Warren Pitt said a safety upgrade to improve flood immunity and alignment on the road would benefit all road users.

"This upgrade will allow greater freedom of movement and access, not only to locals and tourists but also to Type 2 road trains operating on the Burke Developmental Road,'' Mr Pitt said.

"Chillagoe, particularly the outskirts to the township, has suffered from an ongoing dust problem due to the road's gravel surface.

"This project will upgrade a 3.44km section of the existing gravel road to an 8m-wide bitumen surface between Chillagoe and Fortunata Creek.”

Mr Pitt said the project, which will provide jobs for 50 people, would start 4.4km east of Chillagoe.

"Mareeba Shire Council is carrying out this upgrade under a $2.3 million contract with work, which started late last month, due to finish in February 2008,'' he said.

"The work will reduce the potential for accidents for local residents, tourists and truckies using the road."

Media contact: Minister Pitt’s Office 3227 8819