Greater Shepparton City Council is proud to announce it has won the Rural and Remote Programs Award at the 14th Annual Australian Road Safety Awards, recognising the important work on the Poplar Avenue and Orrvale Road Blackspot Intersection Roundabout Upgrade.
In summary:
- Council won a National Road Safety Award for its Poplar Avenue and Orrvale Road intersection upgrade.
- The project transformed a dangerous intersection, previously responsible for 19 crashes and three fatalities in 20 years, into a safer roundabout.
- The $1.62 million upgrade, funded by the Federal Black Spot Program, involved replacing irrigation channels, improving drainage, and constructing a modern roundabout.
- The project utilized over 1,000 tonnes of recycled materials and contributes to Council's goal of zero serious road injuries and fatalities by 2050.
This award-winning project has transformed one of regional Victoria's most dangerous intersections, previously the site of 19 crashes over 20 years including three fatalities and 38 injuries, into a much safer environment for all road users.
Funded through the Federal Government's Black Spot Program, the upgrade is the result of a four-year, $1.62 million program led by Council in close partnership with Goulburn Murray Water and the Department of Transport and Planning.
The project included replacing open irrigation channels with underground pipework, major drainage improvements, and ultimately constructing a modern roundabout designed to reduce speeds and improve visibility at the high-speed rural intersection.
Director Infrastructure, Gary Randhawa, said the award is a testament to the impact of strong collaboration and long-term planning.
"This intersection has been the site of extreme trauma for residents and road users. Winning this national award is a powerful recognition of our community's determination to make meaningful safety improvements," he said.
"We thank our partners at Goulburn Murray Water and the Department of Transport and Planning, our Manager Engineering and Assets Ben Gannon, and most importantly, the local residents who provided valuable input throughout the life of the project."
The roundabout upgrade used more than 1,000 tonnes of recycled materials, including crushed concrete, glass and rubber, reflecting Council's commitment to sustainable infrastructure.
Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, congratulated the team and the community on a well-deserved national win.
"This project was never just about roads, it was about saving lives," he said.
"I want to thank everyone involved in delivering this critical safety upgrade. Our community has waited a long time for this, and it is incredibly rewarding to now see such meaningful change recognised on a national stage."
The intersection, located just one kilometre from Orrvale Primary School, is a key route for parents and local families. Council is now building on the success of this upgrade through its recently adopted Greater Shepparton Mobility and Road Safety Strategy, with a long-term vision of zero serious injuries and fatalities by 2050.
