LANDSBOROUGH HIGHWAY UPGRADE COMPLETE

IMPROVEMENTS to Queensland’s Landsborough Highway between Blackall and Barcaldine are complete.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the $12.5 million project would deliver safety and efficiency for motorists.

“The Landsborough Highway is a key artery for regional Australia and these upgrades will boost productivity for freight operators and help in the long-term growth of tourism in the outback,” Mr McCormack said.

Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey said works included upgraded intersections, rest stops and improvements such as drainage installation.

“The works support the backbone of our nation by improving the transportation of livestock to market by better connecting regional communities and helping drivers share the road with trucks and caravans more easily,” Mr Bailey said.

Federal Member for Maranoa and Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud said the project created 38 jobs.

“The flow-on effect to small businesses will grow as industry travels more along this highway,” Mr Littleproud said.

“We want the safest and most efficient freight routes. We will continue to deliver on these projects.”

Queensland Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner welcomed the improvements on behalf of local producers.

“The Landsborough Highway is a vital route for the transport of cattle and sheep and the local supply chain,” Mr Furner said.

“These important upgrades demonstrate our ongoing support for jobs in Central Queensland.”

The Australian Government has committed $10 million to the project with the Queensland Government contributing $2.5 million.