NOTHING has been done in relation to flood proofing Hamilton Plains, despite the Queensland Government calling for tenders, more than a year ago.
The wet weather last week was a timely reminder of the need to upgrade the vital piece of infrastructure connecting Airlie Beach and Cannonvale to Proserpine, and the hospital and airport.
But despite the call going out for tenders, nothing has moved forward.
The Whitsunday News ran a story, on Wednesday, February 8, 2023, stating:
‘Tenders are invited for the construction of the Hamilton Plains Flood Immunity Upgrade (HPFIU) project, which includes reconstruction of a 1.2km section of Shute Harbour Road, in Proserpine, within Hamilton Plains.’
The Whitsunday News contacted Transport and Main Roads, last week, for an update.
A spokesperson provided the following statement.
‘The Proserpine—Shute Harbour Road, Hamilton Plains Flood Immunity Upgrade project is part of a co-ordinated approach to address flood impacts on the road network in the Whitsunday region and will significantly reduce the impact of wet weather road closures for the community.
‘The project will improve safety and flood immunity on the 1.5-kilometre section of road between the Bruce Highway turn-off and Strathdickie Road via:
- raised road and cane rail crossing levels
- increased culvert capacity to improve drainage
- road widening and wide centre line treatments
- intersection improvements.
The spokesperson went on to say that the project was ‘currently in the procurement phase’.
‘Progression of the Hamilton Plains project to construction is subject to the outcomes of the Australian Government’s Independent Strategic Review of its Infrastructure Investment Program.
‘We are working closely with the Federal Government on the outcomes of the review to understand the impacts and implications for Queensland projects.
‘We will confirm further details, including delivery timeframes, once we have completed our review and assessment of the Australian Government’s initial recommendations.’
