The $6.7 million Rocky Creek Bridge project in Borrololla is now complete.

Local Territory business Advance Civil Engineering delivered the project, which supported 60 jobs at the peak of construction.

A joint initiative between all levels of Government and the private sector saw the Australian Government contribute $3.3 million from the Roads to Recovery Program, the Northern Territory Government contribute $1.4 million, the McArthur River Mine Community Benefits Trust contribute $1.4 million, and the Roper Gulf Regional Council contribute $577,715.

The new bridge is 9.5 metres high and is a double lane sealed road, making the bridge one metre higher than the existing road level, which will increase flood immunity.

Senator for the Northern Territory Dr Sam McMahon said the project was funded under the Australian Government’s Roads to Recovery program which is ensuring Territorians get home sooner and safer.

“Many key industries will benefit from the upgrades to Rocky Creek Bridge, as this important corridor provides more reliable links throughout the Borroloola region,” Dr McMahon said.

“Local Territory business Advance Civil Engineering Pty Ltd delivered the works, which will supporting 60 jobs – however it’s the ongoing jobs of the truck drivers, pastoralists, and community members which will find it easier to complete their work duties.

“This project also supported local Aboriginal employment by providing job opportunities for the community during construction.

“We are investing in our post-pandemic future by delivering lasting infrastructure which will kick-start our economic recovery and benefit Australians for years to come.”

The benefits of this new completed road include:

• Increased route accessibility to support agricultural development;
• Improved freight capacity, through sealing of existing pavements;
• Increased regional productivity and economic development, through provision of year-round road access.

Northern Territory Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics Eva Lawler said the upgrades to Robinson Road will improve an important connection for the town of Borroloola.

“Making sure the town is connected, even after severe weather, is particularly important for ensuring the ongoing delivery of freight and essential services,” Ms Lawler said.

“Supporting local businesses and creating jobs for Territorians is exactly what the NT needs right now – a government who delivers projects that support our local economy and provides ongoing economic benefits to the community.”

Chief Executive Officer of Roper Gulf Regional Council Phillip Luck said this has been a long time coming for the wider Roper Gulf region and Borroloola community members.

“This upgraded was well needed as the crossing at Robinson Road in Borroloola was aged and the February 2017 Tropical Cyclone Alfred caused significant damage,” Mr Luck said.

“Council has worked closely with the NT Government and the McArthur River Mine Community Benefits Trust to design a replacement crossing that will minimise the potential for road closures in the future and increase flood immunity.”

McArthur River Mine Community Benefits Trust Chairman Mike Reed said raising the bridge responds to the concerns of the local community, who in the past have been completely cut-off during severe weather events.

“The new, elevated Rocky Creek Bridge at Borroloola will be a key piece of enabling infrastructure for the Gulf community, tourists and businesses,” Mr Reed said.

“The Community Benefits Trust are proud to have taken the lead in initiating this project with Roper Gulf Regional Council and for the support provided by the Australian Government and the Northern Territory Government.”

This article appeared in the Tennant & District Times, 21 May 2021.