Work to seal 23 kilometres of the Northern Territory's Barkly Stock Route is now complete, sealing the road all the way to its junction with the Stuart Highway to create a more reliable transport corridor for the cattle industry and pastoralists.
The project was awarded to Alice Springs-based company, Exact Contracting Pty Ltd, which supported more than 70 local jobs.
Now the work is complete it will see reductions in road closures along this section from approximately three months to around fifteen days a year and allow reductions in weight restrictions for heavy vehicles due to poor road conditions.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Australian Government is investing in projects right around the nation to make roads safer.
"Safer roads save lives. This project is all part of the Federal Government's $100 billion pipeline of infrastructure projects getting Australians to where they need to be sooner and safer," Mr McCormack said.
"Many key industries will benefit from these upgrades to the Barkly Stock Route. This important corridor will support primary producers by providing more reliable links throughout the region."
Northern Territory Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics, Eva Lawler said the Barkly Stock Route is a crucial road artery in the Territory. Now that the work is complete, it will see further economic development opportunities in the area.
"These upgrades have improved an important connection for our local communities, industry, transport operators and tourists. We have created a safer and more reliable road that will support our cattle industry and heavy vehicle operators in the Territory by reducing the impacts of wet weather."
Senator for Northern Territory Dr Sam McMahon said these works were part of the Australian Government's $100 million Northern Australia Beef Roads Program.
"We are focused on improving the reliability, productivity and resilience of cattle supply chains in the Northern Territory," Senator McMahon said.
"Cattle farmers and primary producers play a vital role in the Northern Territory economy and the Coalition Government continues to support their efforts with this investment."
Northern Territory Member for Barkly, Gerry McCarthy said, "This road is going to stay open for longer, make it easier for our heavy vehicle industry and support our great beef industry."
The Australian Government invested $10.29 million in the project, with the Northern Territory contributing a further $3.8 million.
