Sandy Dann IV With Main Roads Regional Manager Gerry Zoetelief 070223

Kimberley Flood Response In late December 2022, Tropical Cyclone Ellie, crossed the Northern Territory coast and the subsequent tropical low settled over the Fitzroy River Catchment causing significant damage to the Fitzroy Crossing Bridge and sections of Great Northern Highway along the Willare Floodway. A section of the unsealed surface on Gibb River Road has also sustained significant damage. Latest News A 40-person strong road construction crew has been working progressively on the badly damaged sections of Great Northern Highway to create temporary gravel access roads until the more permanent works can be carried out. As part of a staged reopening, vehicles will be escorted through in alternating east and west convoys, using the single lane gravel track under speed restrictions. The reopening will occur in the following stages: Stage 1 - access to all vehicles from Thursday 9 February through to Sunday 12 February between the hours of 8am and 4pm only. Stage 2 - escorted access to all vehicles from Monday 13 February one-way, twice daily: Derby side (east) convoys leaving at 7.30am and 4.30pm Broome side (west) convoys leaving at 8am and 5pm Significant rainfall has fallen in Fitzroy Crossing over the past week with the river levels now as high as levels from late December 2022. Barge infrastructure has arrived at Fitzroy Crossing. Three ‘Punt’ type barges are onsite. These will be capable of taking one light vehicle or up to 14 people at a time across the Fitzroy River. Further details on when the barge will be operational will be released once we are in a position to review river levels and landing options for the service to operate from. If you are using the roads within the western Kimberley region, please exercise caution as many animals have been displaced and are seeking refuge near roads. Please slow down and take care.