Calls from Whitsunday Regional Council and Mayor Ry Collins have borne fruit, with $18.9 million secured under the Country Road Connects Program to seal 15 kilometres of the Bowen Developmental Road.
Mayor Collins said the funding is a long-awaited win for the region’s rural industries, residents, and road users.
“We’ve heard over many years how important this road is—particularly to our rural industries, cattle farmers, the livestock sector, as well as the residents that traverse our rural areas,” he said.
Currently, three sections of the Bowen Developmental Road remain unsealed, creating ongoing problems for road safety and access, particularly during disaster season when wet weather makes travel unpredictable and sometimes impossible.
“This will really be that additional stage that’s needed to enhance user safety, strengthen our resilience during wet weather events, and improve accessibility for the community out there,” Mayor Collins said.
The sealing will provide certainty for freight and agricultural transport, ensuring livestock from high-volume cattle areas in the west can move more efficiently and safely.
Mayor Collins said the announcement reflects years of advocacy by council and local stakeholders.
“We really extend our appreciation to the Crisafulli Government for recognising the importance of additional sealing on the Bowen Developmental Road, and look forward to delivering a fantastic project,” he said.
Council also acknowledged the support of Minister Brent Mickelberg MP and Burdekin MP Dale Last, who have backed the project as part of a broader investment in regional roads.
“This upgrade is a huge win for safety, industry and our Whitsunday rural communities,” Council stated in a recent Facebook post.
Work is expected to begin following project design and planning, with further announcements to come in the months ahead.
15 kilometres of the Bowen Developmental Road will be sealed
A map showing the area where works will take place
Mayor Ry Collins has been a strong advocate for the funding
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