Published Sunday, 16 November, 2008 at 07:00 AM
Minister for Main Roads and Local Government
The Honourable Warren Pitt
Roadworks allow construction of Tree of Knowledge memorial
Main Roads has completed preliminary roadworks to allow construction of a monument to Australian's iconic Tree of Knowledge in Barcaldine.
Main Roads Minister Warren Pitt said the Barcaldine Regional Council had secured state and federal funding to undertake the $5.6 million project to commemorate the tree.
"The Tree of Knowledge is known as the birthplace of the Australian Labor Party and is an important part of the nation's history, as well as a major outback tourist attraction," Mr Pitt said.
"The roadworks on Oak Street will also form part of the Queensland Government's ongoing commitment to improve and maintain regional roads in Queensland."
Mr Pitt said the main street in Barcaldine ran past the Tree of Knowledge and formed part of the Capricorn Highway.
The road carries an average of more than 2000 vehicles a day, of which 10 per cent are heavy vehicles.
"The project will not only provide safe access for pedestrians and tourists visiting to the unique monument, but also ensure this section of the road continues to serve highway traffic," Mr Pitt said.
"The project will incorporate resurfacing work and improving the road's alignment to the east of the memorial."
Barcaldine Regional Council commenced works to construct the Tree of Knowledge monument last month.
Barcaldine Regional Council mayor Councillor Rob Chandler said he was pleased Main Roads could partner with council to work on a project with historical significance for both Barcaldine and Queensland.
"Main Roads' involvement will ensure the project is completed for the official opening next year during the Tree of Knowledge festival in May," Cr Chandler said.
Media contact: Minister Pitt’s Office 3227 8819
Main Roads Minister Warren Pitt said the Barcaldine Regional Council had secured state and federal funding to undertake the $5.6 million project to commemorate the tree.
"The Tree of Knowledge is known as the birthplace of the Australian Labor Party and is an important part of the nation's history, as well as a major outback tourist attraction," Mr Pitt said.
"The roadworks on Oak Street will also form part of the Queensland Government's ongoing commitment to improve and maintain regional roads in Queensland."
Mr Pitt said the main street in Barcaldine ran past the Tree of Knowledge and formed part of the Capricorn Highway.
The road carries an average of more than 2000 vehicles a day, of which 10 per cent are heavy vehicles.
"The project will not only provide safe access for pedestrians and tourists visiting to the unique monument, but also ensure this section of the road continues to serve highway traffic," Mr Pitt said.
"The project will incorporate resurfacing work and improving the road's alignment to the east of the memorial."
Barcaldine Regional Council commenced works to construct the Tree of Knowledge monument last month.
Barcaldine Regional Council mayor Councillor Rob Chandler said he was pleased Main Roads could partner with council to work on a project with historical significance for both Barcaldine and Queensland.
"Main Roads' involvement will ensure the project is completed for the official opening next year during the Tree of Knowledge festival in May," Cr Chandler said.
Media contact: Minister Pitt’s Office 3227 8819