South Australia’s outback communities and industries have welcomed the launch of a new heavy vehicle barge at Cooper Creek, a pivotal development in the region’s recovery from extensive flood damage. The $27.4 million infrastructure, funded by both the Federal and State Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, is designed to reconnect key freight and tourist routes critically impacted by the recent flooding events.
The barge is South Australia’s largest of its type, equipped to transport heavy loads including fully loaded A Double trucks, crucial for the movement of livestock and essential goods across Cooper Creek. This initiative also plays a critical role in the continuity of the state’s beef supply chain and supports employment in the tourism and meat processing sectors.
Emily Bourke, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, shared, “This barge is an investment from the Federal and State Labor Governments in outback South Australia and demonstrates our commitment to help the pastoralists and tourism operators impacted by the floods.
“We are enabling the industry to keep rolling, ensuring there is a consistent supply of beef at the butcher or supermarket.”
The construction of the barge involved the assembly of 12 modular pontoons, a challenging task necessitating the use of cranes transported specially to the site. Prior to its launch, extensive testing ensured its readiness for operation, with the barge now open for public bookings through an online platform provided by the South Australian Department for Infrastructure and Transport.
Clare Scriven, Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, shared, “Pastoralists will soon be able to move their stock, which means huge numbers of cattle won’t be stuck in remote areas of our state over the harsh summer. This is a significant investment to secure the supply of quality SA cattle, which helps support jobs in the meat processing industry.”
The operational barge marks the resumption of regular transport services along the Birdsville Track, a 517-kilometre road connecting Birdsville in Queensland with Marree in South Australia. This route is also essential tourism sector, with the barge ensuring ongoing connectivity and operational continuity.
Significant groundwork was required on both approaches to the crossing to accommodate traffic when the barge is in operation. Further maintenance work will continue over the coming weeks to ensure the durability of road surfaces.
Geoff Brock, Member for Stuart, added, “This is a significant and long-awaited project that will deliver lasting benefits for communities and pastoralists throughout the region. The new barge will help strengthen local industries and contribute to the regional economy.”
The strategic importance of the barge extends beyond immediate logistical needs. Its existence serves to futureproof the area against similar disruptive events, ensuring quicker responses and sustained connectivity for future flood occurrences.
Source - https://glamadelaide.com.au
