The Queensland Government has initiated the works of A$70m ($53.1m) project, which includes upgrading four timber bridges on the Peak Downs Highway, and improving safety and efficiency for freight operators and local residents.

The construction of new bridges would improve the productivity of mining operations in the Bowen and Galilee Basins, as well as reinforcing local job security and economic stability.

Australian Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Darren Chester said: “This project will address limitations in the region’s freight transport network, improve safety and flood resilience, and support local businesses and industries by creating better connectivity in regional areas.”

"The new concrete bridges will be over 10m wide, improving safety for the large number of over-sized vehicles using the Peak Downs Highway."

According to Queensland Minister for Main Roads and Road Safety Mark Bailey, the bridges at Fiery, Lonely, Boundary and Cut creeks that are built using timber will be replaced with concrete structures.

Bailey noted: “The new bridges will improve the safety, capacity and reliability of the Peak Downs Highway, particularly for the heavy vehicle and freight industries.

“The new concrete bridges will be over 10m wide, improving safety for the large number of over-sized vehicles using the Peak Downs Highway.”

Australian Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry said the Government had committed around A$35m ($26.5m) funding to the project under the Bridges Renewal Programme.

Landry said: “This is the largest investment in an individual package of works under the programme and it will be put to very good use by replacing the four bridges.

"People who travel on country roads deserve good facilities just as much as those in major cities and I am proud to have helped facilitate these grants.

“The Government is investing in upgrades for our nation’s deteriorating bridges to improve productivity, safety and community access and this multimillion dollar package demonstrates our commitment to improving infrastructure in regional Queensland.

“This is a massive investment in our region which is not only a win for those looking for jobs, but will also be a business boost for the mining industry as it will improve heavy vehicle and freight movements.”

Both, the Australian and Queensland governments are jointly funding the project on a 50:50 basis and it is expected to be completed by late 2018, depending upon weather conditions.