Major reconstruction works on Mount Spec Road in Queensland are now underway following the completion of emergency repairs, geotechnical investigations, and design work.
Mount Spec Road was significantly damaged by severe weather earlier this year, which resulted in more than 60 landslips.
Reconstruction will initially focus on reducing risks at two high-risk sites to enable the removal of the restricted access permit system. Works will include controlled blasting to remove a very large boulder at one of the critical sites near Little Crystal Creek which has been a major safety concern.
Mount Spec Road will be closed during blasting for safety reasons. Residents will be notified in advance so they can plan their travel.
“We understand the difficulties residents and businesses in Paluma have experienced because of widespread and extensive damage caused by heavy rainfall and flooding in North Queensland earlier this year.
“The beginning of these more substantial restoration works builds on the momentum to ensure access to this beautiful part of North Queensland is fully restored and safe for road users, bringing certainty for locals that visitors can return.
“Our government is committed to jointly funding this project through the DRFA and we’ll continue working with the Queensland Government to support the ongoing recovery effort,” Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said.
At other sites, stabilising works will be carried out to minimise further damage from the upcoming wet season. Geotechnical treatments including shotcreting, soil nailing, and gabion baskets will be utilised alongside landscaping to restore the road to its pre-event function.
During the reconstruction, single-lane access to the road will be maintained from 6am to 6pm where possible.
The recovery works are jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
“We understand the importance of this road to the local Paluma community, tourism operators and visitors to this beautiful Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.
“This will not be a quick fix due to the significant scale of the damage and the nature of the complex repairs requiring highly specialised expertise and equipment.
“We will work with the contractor to minimise disruptions and balance the need to fix the road as quickly as possible, while maintaining community access where it is safe to do so.
“We appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation as we carry out the reconstruction works,” QLD Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said.
CMC has been awarded the contract to undertake the reconstruction of Mount Spec Road.
With the next wet season approaching, the builder will focus on delivering an extensive package of permanent slope repairs and road reconstruction. CMC will be prioritising works based on design development, material, and resource scheduling.
This project is technically demanding as it will involve:
Mount Spec Road is located in a remote and environmentally sensitive part of North Queensland. It traverses steep terrain with narrow carriageways and dry and wet tropic landscapes.
“We look forward to delivering exceptional outcomes for the community and restoring safe, reliable access through this important corridor.
“Stay tuned for updates as we get underway,” CMC said in a statement.
Source: Queensland Government – Media Statements; Australian Government – Department of Home Affairs; Queensland Government – Department of Transport and Main Roads; CMC