Another major component to the upgrade of the Bruce Highway between Cooroy and Curra is now complete, with construction workers having successfully removed over five million cubic metres of earth – enough soil and rock to fill 2,000 Olympic swimming pools.

Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister Anthony Albanese said completion of the bulk earthworks follows last month’s opening of two kilometres of new highway between Middle Creek Road and Sankeys Road and clears the way for work to begin on the remaining 10 kilometres of new road.

“The fact both these major contracts have been completed on time and on budget is confirmation that the entire project is on track to be completed in 2012,” said Mr Albanese.

“When it comes to infrastructure, Labor means what says and delivers what it promises.”

The realignment and duplication of the Bruce Highway between Sankeys Road and Traveston Road is a jointly funded project, with the Gillard Labor Government contributing $488 million and the Bligh Labor Government a further $125 million.

Queensland Main Roads Minister Craig Wallace said the planned works will create a divided carriageway to separate oncoming traffic, reducing the risk of head-on collisions.

“Once completed in 2012, this new fully duplicated section of highway will provide safer driving conditions with wider shoulders, emergency stopping bays and Intelligent Transport Systems such as speed-activated Variable Message Signs,” said Mr Wallace.

“It will also provide local motorists with better access to the region, particularly during times of flooding.

“While this project has a strong safety focus, it will also help make sure the road infrastructure of south east Queensland is able to cope with the expected growth in population and freight volumes.”

More information can be obtained from the project website: www.tmr.qld.gov.au/cooroytocurra.