Significant recovery and reconstruction works are now underway along Bloomfield Road, marking a major step forward in the Cook Shire region’s recovery from Tropical Cyclone Jasper and associated flooding.
Funding for the project has been made available under the Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), which provides vital support to communities recovering from extreme weather events.
Cook Shire Mayor Robyn Holmes said while temporary repairs have helped maintain access to the road over the past months, the commencement of permanent works is now possible thanks to secured funding and the completion of detailed geotechnical assessments.
“Restoring Bloomfield Road is crucial to keeping our community connected and ensuring safety, especially with the wet season approaching.
“We appreciate the support from the Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), which is making these essential works possible.
“This takes time, but these are necessary steps to ensure the work is done properly.
“Council is doing everything it can to complete the repairs and reopen the road to full functionality as soon as possible. We thank the community for its patience.”
These essential works will improve access along the road, ensuring the safety and connectivity of residents, businesses, and visitors.
The program includes both standard and specialised treatments across several critical sites, such as full-width road reconstruction, culvert repairs, slope stabilisation, and pothole repairs.
This will strengthen the road’s structural integrity and minimise further disruptions as the wet season approaches.
The scale and complexity of the damage caused by flooding after Tropical Cyclone Jasper required thorough geotechnical assessments and several specialised designs to ensure long-lasting and effective repairs. The challenging terrain and need for detailed planning have been critical in preparing for the commencement of these essential works.
The program will be delivered in multiple stages to prioritise critical sites. Construction on high-priority sites is set to commence by mid-September 2024, with the intention of completing these works before the start of the wet season.
Cook Shire Council continues to work with all agencies in the region, including the Wet Tropics Management Authority and Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation to secure the necessary permits and approvals. This collaboration ensures that the environmental and cultural significance of the area is respected and protected throughout the recovery process.
