Persistence and Pressure Pays Off – Bowen Roadworks Update

Back in February 2022 three Bruce Highway upgrade projects were put on hold due to the voluntary administration of construction contractor WBHO Infrastructure.

Roadworks between Emu Creek to Drays Road and Bowen Connection Road to Champion Street have sat deserted and untouched for 10 long months.

These projects are part of the $12.6 billion Bruce Highway upgrade program jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments with $10 billion contributed by the Australian Government and $2.6 billion contributed by the Queensland Government.

Residents have endured lower speed limits and dangerous conditions since February and have expressed their concerns loudly to Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox.

“It was extremely disappointing when the news came through that WBHO Infrastructure had gone into administration, and even more disappointing to feel that a replacement contractor wasn’t on the horizon.” Andrew Willcox said

“Following meetings with TMR, letters to Minister Bailey and calling for the road works to re-start in Parliament and through social media, after 10 long months I am delighted to update the electorate that TMR have finally appointed a new contractor, RMS Engineering and Construction Pty Ltd, and I have been advised that maintenance, environmental and culvert activities will be recommencing today, with the main construction to commence early 2023”.

“I am pleased to see a North Queensland contractor appointed and while it’s extremely inconvenient for locals to have to wait another 12 plus months for this project to be completed, we are happy there is finally movement”.  Andrew Willcox said

“Make no mistake, I will be watching this project closely and putting pressure on TMR and the Queensland Government to ensure it is completed without any further delays and to a standard that we deserve”.

“The people of Dawson deserve to get home safely and on time”.