$70 million Federal funding secured for Kennedy Developmental Road sealing

Flinders Shire Council is delighted to announce that the Australian Government has allocated $70 million in the Federal Budget to complete the sealing of the Kennedy Development (The Lynd – Hughenden).

The Kennedy Developmental Road is a key strategic link from northern Australia to the southern freight hubs of Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne.

The road is central to tourism, horticulture, freight, and cattle movement through Queensland's north and northwest region.

However, for many years, sections of the road remained unsealed, causing safety issues for locals, tourists, and transport operators who regularly used the route.

Earlier this year, the Prime Minister, during Question Time, committed to local Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter to finish the job.

At the same time, State Member for Traeger Robbie Katter played a pivotal role in supporting the cause, engaging actively with various stakeholders and advocating for the vital need to seal the road.

Flinders Shire Mayor Kate Peddle said this milestone achievement underscored the power of collaboration and the persistent efforts of key stakeholders.

"I am incredibly grateful for the unwavering support from both Bob Katter and Robbie Katter," said Mayor Peddle.

“Their dedication to the region, political muscle, relentless lobbying and understanding of its challenges have been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition.

"This, combined with the support of Advance Cairns and the North West Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils (NWQROC), have united to secure our commitment to completing the sealing of the remaining section of the Kennedy Developmental Road.”

While the Shire eagerly awaited detailed information on the funding, Mayor Peddle emphasised the importance of the two crossings at Bundock and Einsleigh, which were championed to meet the objectives of the inland alternative route to the Bruce Highway after the devastating rain event earlier in the year.

“Though this section is located in the Etheridge Shire, here at Flinders we couldn't be more excited,” said Mayor Peddle.

“This again demonstrates our strength in united efforts with aligned priorities. I look forward to speaking with Mayor Barry Hughes in Etheridge to explore how our crews can assist once construction begins.

“With a camp in Flinders just south of the section needing completion, we can potentially work towards cost savings, allowing the funding to extend further.”

Mayor Peddle added that the funding announcement coincided with her birthday.

“Our State Member Robbie sent me a playful message asking if I appreciated the birthday gift they had organised for me. Needless to say, I was thrilled!”, she said.

"My husband, a truck driver, was also delighted with the news but, like many in the transport industry, couldn't understand why it took so long to secure this commitment for the last section.

“These announcements don't come easily, especially when competing with so many regions in need of funding for their roads.

"If the funds were united, we could achieve all that is required, potentially including the necessary realignment in our Shire at Whitecliffs, which will support access to future renewable projects.”

Mayor Peddle also expressed gratitude to Advance Cairns Chair Nick Trompf, who called her after the Budget was announced to advise her of the confirmed allocated funding.

"Thank you to the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, for hearing our calls and taking action on this important inland route,” she said.

She also extended a heartfelt thank you to John Wharton, Chair of the North West Queensland Road and Rail Group (NWQRRG).

“His wisdom and collaborative approach have been integral to securing funding in the North West,” she said.

“Flinders Shire Council eagerly anticipates the commencement of this important infrastructure project, which promises to enhance connectivity and drive the future growth of our region.”