Wallaman Falls Remediation Works begin

The contract for the design and construction of the works to remediate Wallaman Falls Road landslip, damage sustained during the severe weather events from March this year, has been awarded to Hinchinbrook contractor Keita Services Pty Ltd with works expected to begin immediately.  

Mayor Ramon Jayo said he was pleased to see the $2.3m contract awarded locally.

‘Council have worked diligently to ensure that local contractors have the opportunity to engage with Council procurement opportunities. Projects such as this have a positive economic benefit for the community, keeping money in the district and ensuring ongoing employment opportunities are available locally.’

Cr Jayo reassured the community that the works would secure the affected areas in case of inclement weather, and that works were not expected to impede visitation to the falls over the Christmas or school holiday periods. The works include the installation of soil nails on all sites prior to Christmas time will provide stability, maintain traffic access and protection against inclement weather.

‘Contractors have taken possession of the site, and will work to ensure that Wallaman Falls Road continues to be safe and functional during the upcoming school holidays,’ Cr Jayo said.

Works are expected to be complete by March 2019.

This project has been initiated by the Hinchinbrook Shire Council. Eligible works will be jointly  funded by the Commonwealth and Queensland Governments under the  Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA).

Council’s CEO Mr Alan Rayment was extremely pleased that Council, respective staff and consultants had worked effectively to have such works approved relatively quickly with regards to the complex nature of the issue following such a drastic event. He further reiterated that road access to such an iconic location such as Wallaman Falls is extremely important to the Hinchinbrook for both economic and lifestyle aspects.