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A Central Queensland bridge upgrade is expected to unlock the potential of the freight, agriculture and mining industries.
Works to replace the ageing Barcoo River Bridge will begin in April, a $7 million project delivered as part of a commitment by the Australian and Queensland Governments to fast-track 22 regional projects.
Federal Member for Maranoa David Littleproud said the location of the Barcoo River Bridge, on the Dawson Developmental Road between Springsure and Tambo, was important in unlocking the vast potential of the freight, agriculture and mining industries.
“Replacing this bridge will help connect regional businesses to local and international markets and better connect regional communities,” he said.
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REGIONAL voices will be heard in a group formed to future-proof the Bruce Highway.
The Daily Mercury did a series of stories on how the North, Central and Far North Queensland were not represented in a government group formed to future-proof the Bruce Highway.
At the time Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto described the lack of regional representation as “outrageous”.
In an announcement made in Rockhampton on Wednesday Assistant Minister for Regional Roads Bruce Saunders said the trust would be expanded to incorporate regional voices.
Nominations have opened as the Department of Transport and Main Roads searches for six regional representatives to join the Advisory Council, which is tasked with identifying the upgrades most important to Queenslanders and dividing a pool of more than $1 billion annually to projects along the stretch of road. Nominees must regularly use the highway or live along its corridor north of Gympie and have experience in road safety or reg
A $1.7km fauna fence is being installed between Anderleigh Road and Tinana Road on the stretch of Tin Can Bay Road known as a koala hotspot.
“While the signs have had a positive impact, ongoing improvements to protect as many native animals as possible is incredibly important.
“We want to reduce the risk of koala and other wildlife deaths on Tin Can Bay Road.
“The new, fauna exclusion fencing will deter animals crossing here.”
Mr Saunders said works had been completed under a fauna spotter’s supervision.
“The fauna spotter will continue monitoring the site while the fence is being built to ensure wildlife is kept safe,” he said.
Koala carnage on busy Gympie road prompts govt action gympietimes.com.au - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from gympietimes.com.au Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said traffic volumes were expected to increase on the Peak Downs Highway.
“Just over 3km of road will be widened to 9m, with one-metre shoulders, to increase separation between heavy vehicles, caravans and light vehicles,” Mr Bailey said.
“Widening three sections will enable safer overtaking opportunities, so drivers don’t take unnecessary risks.
“We’re also tackling fatigue for heavy vehicle drivers by upgrading two informal stopping bays.” The Peak Downs Highway upgrades north of Clermont will improve safety for all motorists. Picture: Tara Miko
Assistant Minister for Northern Australia and Capricornia MP Michelle Landry said the wider road would also enable safer overtaking opportunities.