Running from Halls Creek to the Northern Territory Border, the Tanamai Road services a number of indigenous communities and is becoming more and more popular for self drive tourists. In 2003, the Western Australian Government provided $10 million for the road to be upgraded over a five year period. The Shire has entered an agreement with the State Government to complete the majority of this work.
Improvements to the Sturt Creek crossing is now complete. This creek could flood as much as a 20 kilometre section of the road, resulting in closures of up to five months during the wet season. This was a major issue for Aboriginal communities cut off for months on end, as well as tourists not able to use the road.
Work involved a new type of bridge construction. Closure of the road is now expected to be three to four weeks maximum. The new bridgework comprises special culverts. These were constructed locally providing employment for 12 local Aboriginal trainees. This business is now available to be taken over and ran as a private venture.
Further works on the road will take place through to 2008. Funding availability includes $1 million in 2006, with $2 million for 2007 and in 2008 $3 million. This will involve work to raise other flood prone areas and the removal of dangerous bends in the road.
As well as enable a constant flow of fuel and other supplies for remote communities, the upgraded road will increase tourism and assist increasing mining ventures in the Shire. The road is a vital source of through traffic for the Balgo Aboriginal community. Its popular arts centre currently has a turnover of $7 million.
Tourists can also access the top end of the Canning Stock Route which is very popular with four wheel drive enthusiasts. Lake Gregory is also accessible from the Tanamai Road. This is a mecca for various migratory birds drawing bird watchers from around the world and the eco-tourist. The second largest meteor crater on the planet is also accessible from the Tanamai Road. The Wolfe Creek Crater is another draw card for travellers.
