Residents in Moolboolaman will soon have safer access in and out of their properties during heavy rain events after the completion of the Duckpond Road flood upgrade project.
The Bundaberg Regional Council initiative began in May 2024 and includes the construction of new concrete culverts, road re-alignment and widening over the Duckpond Road/Gin Gin Creek Crossing.
Roads and Infrastructure (rural) portfolio spokesperson Cr Bill Trevor highlighted that the upgrade would ensure that residents were no longer cut off by flooding.
“The goal of this project is to provide greater access for residents during low-level flooding, a situation that previously restricted their ability to travel to and from their properties,” he said.
“Historically, the crossing has been submerged for up to 30 days a year, severely impacting residents’ daily lives.
“The new culvert is approximately one metre above the existing level, significantly improving the crossing’s flood resilience ensuring that it remains accessible and safe.”
With the works set to be completed by 18 December, the project will mark a significant improvement for residents who have long faced isolation during largescale rain events, including Pat Jackson.
Pat has lived on her 100-acre property in Moolboolaman since 2012 and said she had lost count how many times she had been “flooded in”.
“There has been a real increase in frequency and intensity of rainfall over the years,” Pat said.
“On a couple of occasions, I had to be flown out by the chopper when I had heart issues because the road ambulance couldn’t get through.”
While Pat will be leaving the area soon, she said she was thrilled with Council‘s decision to action the floodway project.
“Now that the new floodway is done, it will make such a huge difference to the community out here,” she said.
“The kids will still be able to get to school, the mail will be delivered, and emergency services will be able to gain access.
“I am absolutely thrilled, it’s fantastic.”
The Duckpond Road flood upgrade project was funded in part by the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA).
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