New South Wales communities in Wentworth Shire Council and Central Darling Shire Council will have better access to Pooncarie Road, following the completion of $48.8 million worth of sealing projects.
The Australian Government invested $31.7 million and the New South Wales Government contributed $17.1 million to the projects, which were delivered between 2021 and 2024.
Before the projects were delivered, an 87.5-kilometre stretch of Pooncarie Road between Menindee and Pooncarie had a dirt surface which presented as a problematic surface.
The sealing projects completed in recent months have led to easier access to essential services, while also boosting freight efficiency and improving access to tourism opportunities.
Daniel Linklater, Wentworth Shire Mayor said this is a transformative milestone for the region.
“The sealing of Pooncarie Road, connecting Pooncarie to Menindee, is a game-changer for tourism, road users, and local economies,” he said.
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“Reliable year-round access makes travelling safer and more enjoyable while opening up new opportunities for local businesses, with Pooncarie already seeing travellers arriving earlier than ever before.”
Linklater said the improved connectivity benefits communities across both shires will strengthen regional ties, support freight and supply chains.
“I look forward to seeing the lasting economic and social benefits these projects will bring to our communities and beyond,” he said.
Greg Hill, Central Darling Shire Council General Manager said the road desperately needed to be sealed for road safety reasons.
“Now we can keep the road open during wet conditions, benefiting both residents and tourists,” he said.
“This is a significant achievement. These are major projects for not only our shire but also the far west region.
“The benefits will be long lasting. We also expect to see more tourists visiting the area now that the road is sealed.”
For more information, www.transport.nsw.gov.au