Redevelopment unlocks access to scenic rainforest
6th December, 2014
LOCAL residents and visitors to the Kirrama Range National Park are celebrating today as they regain access to the Wet Tropics World Heritage area of the Cardwell Range.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss said the Australian Government contributed $1 million towards the reconstruction of the Kirrama Range Road.
“Cardwell is the centre of a vast natural landscape comprising rugged mountain scenery, tropical rainforest, waterfalls and open eucalyptus forest, so the reopening of this road is great news for local tourism and the region’s economy,” Mr Truss said.
Senator for Queensland Ian Macdonald said the project is a great example of all three levels of government coming together to repair a much loved and important road for the local community.
“After eight long years, we have re-opened this picturesque road which traverses the World Heritage listed Kirrama Range National Park - restoring access for tourists, traditional owners and local cattle station owners,” Senator Macdonald said.
Queensland Member for Hinchinbrook Andrew Cripps said works have involved a full length pavement reconstruction along 18.8 kilometres of road, including sealed and unsealed sections.
“Bridges and roadside drainage works have also been replaced. The LNP Newman Government is a strong team with a strong plan and this project is another great example of different levels of Government working together to deliver better infrastructure for regional areas,” Mr Cripps said.
Mayor of Cassowary Coast Regional Council Bill Shannon said the local community has been eagerly anticipating the opening of the upgraded road, with members of the Kirrama Range Road Support Group holding a community event on Saturday night to celebrate the official reopening.
“Kirrama Range Road has been closed to traffic after sustaining extensive damage from Tropical Cyclone Larry in 2006, with more damage inflicted by Cyclone Yasi in 2011. We thank the Australian and Queensland governments for their help in restoring the community’s vital link to our rainforests,” Cr Shannon said.
This project was jointly funded with the Australian Government providing $1 million, the Queensland Government contributing $2.5 million, and the Cassowary Coast Regional Council investing more than $1.2 million.
