Road sealing drives outback economy

Queenslanders in the state’s central west are set to reap the benefits of newly sealed roads.

The Palaszczuk Government has completed critical road sealing on 8.9km of the Blackall-Jericho Road and more than 6km of the Jundah-Quilpie Road.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the project, funded by the Palaszczuk Government’s Western Roads Upgrade Supplement (WRUS) had created 16 jobs, improved safety and helped to increase productivity across the region.

“The Palaszczuk Government is committing more than $14.5 billion in regional roads and transport project over the next four years, creating more than 13,500 jobs,” Mr Bailey said.

“Every time a section of road is sealed, it gives the communities and businesses who use these roads peace of mind knowing they have a safer, more resilient link to other towns and vital services, like health, education and emergency services.

“Sealing these roads helps enhance the liveability of rural areas and builds greater long-term economic viability across the state.”

Blackall-Tambo Regional Council Mayor Andrew Martin said there were valuable flow-on effects of sealing regional roads.

“Blackall is home to one of only two organic saleyards in remote Australia. With an increasing number of graziers wanting to gain organic certification, it is crucial we have the infrastructure needed to support this growing industry,” Cr Martin said.

“We have a unique opportunity to move more cattle than ever through our district. This means added dollars and greater diversity to the economy.

“Sealing more sections of the Blackall-Jericho Road better supports the movement of road trains carrying livestock as well as cypress pine from the restarted Tambo Mill, on to markets and export facilities further east.”

With local councils completing the works on both projects, Barcoo Shire Council Mayor Bruce Scott said sealing parts of the Jundah-Quilpie Road was important to the district.

“This type of project is vital to our community as it provides both continuity of employment for our council staff and local contractors, as well as a much-needed stimulus to the economy,” Cr Scott said.

He said sealing dirt roads also delivered significant long-term improvements in the areas of road safety and efficiency.

“Safer passing opportunities, better visibility due to less dust, decreased travel times and reduced damage to vehicles are benefits of this work that can be enjoyed by all road users, from road train operators to local motorists and tourists alike,” he said.    

ENDS

Media Contact: Francis Dela Cruz -  0420 592 078