A $45.24 million project to upgrade the Wyaga Creek crossing on the Gore Highway, north of Goondiwindi, is set to become a reality.
The Wyaga Creek Flood Improvement project is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments on an 80:20 basis.
The project will replace the existing low-immunity culvert with higher flood immunity bridge and culvert structure, as well as widening the pavement and improving the approaches to the new crossing.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the project would deliver significant benefits for local motorists and those travelling through the region.
“The Australian Government is investing heavily in infrastructure projects across Queensland to make sure commuters get home sooner and safer and that our road networks for freight are as reliable as they can be,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
“This targeted infrastructure investment will improve the safety and efficiency of this section of road between Millmerran and Goondiwindi.
“At the same time, we’re injecting much needed funds into the Queensland economy and creating jobs for hard-working Australians. We’re getting projects like this done to give Queenslanders better infrastructure and to boost our economy.”
Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey said the Queensland Government was committed to making Queensland roads more resilient against extreme weather.
“The Gore Highway connects the tourism hub of Toowoomba with Western Queensland and the New South Wales border at Goondiwindi,” Mr Bailey said.
“We know that the Gore Highway is often affected by heavy rain and wild weather, so this upgrade will aim to reduce the number and length of closures along this key link.
“This means locals have continued road access and our heavy vehicle supply chain can keep moving.
“The Queensland Government is delivering over $660 million in road and transport projects in the Darling Downs region alone, including improvements on the D’Aguilar, Cunningham and New England Highways.
“Targeted investments like this support local jobs, local suppliers and continue the momentum of Queensland’s strong recovery from COVID-19.
“Once complete, the benefits of the Wyaga Creek crossing project will be felt by locals, tourists and industries alike.”
Federal Member for Maranoa David Littleproud said the project would help to support local jobs and industry.
“The Wyaga Creek bridge replacement is an investment in the future of the region,” Mr Littleproud said.
“It will also support 95 jobs throughout the build, with construction expected to begin in 2023 and finish up by mid-2024.”
The $45.24 million Gore Highway (Millmerran – Goondiwindi) Wyaga Creek Flood Improvement project is funded on an 80:20 basis, with the Australian Government contributing $36.19 million and the Queensland Government contributing $9.05 million.
