Minute With The Mayor 29 August

Reliable roads and bridges are the backbone of our regional economy. They keep our cane farmers, graziers and local residents connected, and ensure produce, livestock and equipment can move when and where they need to.

In recent years, weight restrictions on Kelsey Creek Bridges 2 and 3 have made life more complicated for those who depend on them most. For primary producers, especially during the busy sugar crushing season, these restrictions have meant longer trips and more logistical challenges when moving heavy vehicles, machinery and goods.

That’s why I’m very pleased to share that this project has now been prioritised, and funding is secured to deliver a long-term solution. Council has successfully secured more than $4.5 million through the Australian Government’s Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program, which will cover 80 per cent of the $5.6 million project cost.

On top of this, Council has committed further funding through the Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme to enable heavy vehicle bypasses to be fast-tracked while the permanent replacements are designed and constructed.

These bypasses will provide bed level crossings in waterways to comply with fisheries requirements and be built to a dry-weather standard and will immediately ease pressure on farmers and transport operators by creating alternate access for heavy vehicles. Officers are still to determine the ultimate alignment for the new bridges and detour options for all vehicles during construction.

I want to acknowledge the strong advocacy of Divisional Councillors John Collins and Gary Simpson, who have worked tirelessly to ensure this project was elevated as a priority. Both Councillors have been strong voices for their communities and have pushed hard to make sure local farmers, graziers and residents get the infrastructure they need. Their commitment has played a key role in helping Council secure the funding and drive this project forward.

This project simply would not have been possible without the support of the Australian Federal Government. Their recognition of the importance of this investment and willingness to commit significant funding has made it possible for Council to get on with the job. On behalf of our community, I sincerely thank the Federal Government for backing the Whitsundays and our rural industries.

I also want to thank local landholders for working with Council officers to help identify practical bypass options. Their recent cooperation and input have been invaluable in making sure we can move quickly and effectively.

Council’s focus is now on delivery. By prioritising this project and empowering our officers to take the necessary steps, we’re making sure the solutions are implemented as soon as possible.

This project will bring real benefits to our rural industries and communities, not just for today but for decades to come. It’s a clear sign of our commitment to practical infrastructure that supports the people who drive our local economy.

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