FIRST ROAD ‘BEEFED UP’ IN QUEENSLAND’S NORTH WEST

THE first North West Queensland project to be delivered under the Northern Australia Beef Roads Program (NABRP) is done and dusted, with sealing works now complete on a section of the Cloncurry–Dajarra Road.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the $3.22 million sealing works are an important step in unlocking growth for Northern Australia’s livestock industry. 

“The $100 million Beef Roads Program recognises the positive impact of the beef industry on economic growth and creates potential for greater expansion through more efficient freight links,” Mr McCormack said.

Assistant Minister for Roads and Transport Scott Buchholz said graziers faced real challenges with transporting cattle to market.

“By providing targeted upgrades to key routes, we are alleviating some of those pressures, securing the future success of the industry and supporting economic development across Northern Australia,” Mr Buchholz said.

Minister for Resources and Northern Australia Matt Canavan said the sealing works on the Cloncurry-Dajarra Road would improve the resilience of cattle supply chains while improving safety and reducing travel times.

“These works will significantly improve the reliability of the road in wet weather and reduce road roughness, dust and flying rock. These are important considerations when it comes to hauling livestock throughout different times of the year,” Senator Canavan said.

Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey said the mining industry would also benefit from the progressive sealing and widening of this section of the link.

“With these upgrades, vehicle and road maintenance costs will be reduced and drivers will be able to overtake slow-moving vehicles more safely,” Mr Bailey said.

An average of 10 direct jobs will be supported over the life of the overall Cloncurry–Dajarra Road project.

The Australian Government contributed $2.58 million towards the project, while the Queensland Government contributed $640,000.