Dawson Developmental Road Takes Another Step Toward ROSI Future 

April 29, 2020

Maranoa MP David Littleproud has welcomed the Federal Government’s $5.6 million investment to help replace the Barcoo River bridge on the Dawson Developmental Road.

“Replacing the Barcoo River timber bridge is a win for safety and guarantees that all travellers and truckies have improved access between Springsure and Tambo,” Mr Littleproud said.

“The bridge was previously closed and now is the time to get on with the job and provide a better connection for truckies, graziers, miners and once the pandemic is over, for travellers.

“Maranoa’s farmers and graziers are amongst the best in the world – they need to be able to get their cattle to the Roma Saleyards or to consumers in big cities and overseas or for miners moving heavy machinery and loads,” Mr Littleproud said.

“Guaranteeing efficient routes for heavy industries like mining and agriculture boosts competiveness and also gives tourists – once the pandemic finishes – more options in how they get around our neck of the woods. This upgrade is a win for the Bush.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the early works projects will be delivered on corridors identified under the Roads of Strategic Importance (ROSI) initiative.

“Works to seal roads, build overtaking lanes, upgrade intersections and improve safety will start sooner under an agreement reached between the Australian and Queensland Governments on 22 jointly-funded regional projects worth $185 million,” Mr McCormack said.

“We are committed to delivering the Federal Government’s $100 billion, 10-year infrastructure pipeline which will support our economy and create jobs, particularly for those in the construction and building supply chain sectors, through the current COVID-19 response.”

Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport Scott Buchholz said the identification of these priorities is an important step as the Coalition Government works with the Queensland Government to develop a 10-year, Roads of Strategic Importance strategy.

“This is about making these major roads and key freight routes safer and more reliable, while also supporting Council workforces and local contractors, who will benefit from these contracts too,” Mr Buchholz said.

ENDS