MAJOR repairs are set to begin next month on Victoria’s Sunraysia Highway – a freight route linking grain and produce farms to domestic and international export markets.
Road-rebuilding works on a section of highway in Lascelles would strengthen and stabilise the road to cater to high numbers of truck movements each day.
The project aims to support the ongoing economic viability of the region’s grain and fresh fruit producers, as well as supporting the state-wide freight industry, the Victorian government said.
It is part of the government’s $964-million road maintenance program – the largest single-year spend on road maintenance in the state’s history – with further road repairs to continue over the next nine months.
The Lacselles project involves completely rebuilding a one kilometre stretch of road from the ground up and correcting sub-surface issues.
Victorian roads minister Melissa Horne said the Sunraysia Highway is critical to the people and economy of Northern Victoria.
“By making sure that key freight connections like the Sunraysia are up to scratch, we’re helping to keep goods on the move, supporting thousands of jobs and driving our state’s economy forward,” she said.
And member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said, “The road works along the Sunraysia Highway will ensure our leading grain and produce can reach the world for many years to come.”
The Victorian government noted the state’s freight industry contributes $36 billion annually to its economy and employs more than 260,000 people across supply chains.
Work on the Sunraysia Highway is due to begin in early November.
