Joint media release with Brent Mickelberg MP
- Innovative temporary barrier installed at high-risk landslip site on Mount Spec Road.
- Works mark key milestone to restore safety in broader reconstruction works following significant weather impacts in 2025.
- Geo-technical assessments are currently being undertaken to evaluate potential removal of restricted access permit system.
An innovative temporary barrier constructed using sand-filled shipping containers has been installed at a high-risk landslip site on Mount Spec Road, ahead of schedule.
The works mark a significant milestone in stabilising the major high-risk landslip and reducing the risk of further rockfalls onto the road.
The road suffered substantial structural damage caused by record rainfall in early 2025.
The barrier consists of a three-layer shipping-container safety wall, an innovative temporary solution on the state-controlled road network in the district.
Each container has been securely positioned and filled with a sand and aggregate mix, providing a robust temporary safety solution while permanent repair works are planned and delivered.
The containers were transported to and installed on Mount Spec Road at night, to minimise impacts on road users.
The temporary barrier will address the risk at the landslip site and support progress toward permit-free access when it is safe to do so.
Geo-technical assessments will be carried out prior to the end of March 2026, weather permitting, to determine whether the risk level at the site can be downgraded and the restricted access permit system removed.
The recovery works are funded by the Albanese and Crisafulli governments through the joint Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments were working together to rebuild the flood impacted region.
"The installation of this innovative temporary barrier is an important step in stabilising Mount Spec Road and protecting the community while longer‑term reconstruction works continue," Minister McBain said.
"By working closely with the Queensland Government and local contractors, we are helping to restore safe and reliable access for residents, businesses and visitors to Paluma as quickly as conditions allow.
"The Albanese Government is committed to supporting North Queensland communities as they recover and rebuild."
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the Crisafulli Government understood the importance of this road to the local Paluma community, tourism operators and visitors to the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.
"The shipping container barrier solution is a first for this part of the world, underlining the complexity of the damage to site and the innovative approach required to deliver repairs," Minister Mickelberg said.
"The Crisafulli Government is working collaboratively with the Albanese Government to restore access as quickly as possible, because we know this road is a lifeline for local communities and is essential for building a better lifestyle through a stronger economy."
State Member for Hinchinbrook, Wayde Chiesa said the works are about restoring access for the community as quickly as possible.
"Mount Spec Road is a critical lifeline for locals, local businesses and the region's tourism and economy," Mr Chiesa said.
"After visiting the Paluma and Hidden Valley communities and speaking directly with local businesses, it's clear just how important it is to have this road operating normally again."
"We are committed to getting the road back to how it was - open, accessible and ready for business - and the sooner we can lift the permit system, the better for everyone."
For more information visit Mount Spec Road reconstruction works | Department of Transport and Main Roads.
