Minute With The Mayor 12 August

Hinchinbrook Shire Council is committed to delivering long-term, practical solutions for Mt Fox Road — a critical transport corridor that supports local residents, farmers, school communities, and key stakeholders such as Windlab.

Following a series of severe weather events, including the widespread February 2025 rain, Mt Fox Road sustained extensive and serious damage. More than 35 landslip sites were identified across the range, with large sections of the road base destabilised and critical drainage infrastructure compromised. At the height of the damage, there was significant pressure to close the road completely.

However, thanks to the dedication of local contractors and emergency crews, Council was able to maintain limited access, keeping the road open under restricted conditions. Council has now completed comprehensive geotechnical assessments and is progressing to the next phase of the project.

We are preparing to go out to tender for major remediation works. This is not a short-term fix. This remediation work is undertaking full permanent repair of the sites impacted by the flooding events. The scope involves substantial reconstruction of the range section, with funding secured through state and federal disaster recovery programs.

Works will include rebuilding the damaged road surface, improving drainage, including replacing inadequate culverts, and reinstating via stabilising landslips and structural failures associated with the terrain. Whilst Council will do its best to maintain reasonable access during reconstruction works — using stop-and-go personnel and detours where possible — there will likely be times when full road closures are necessary for extended periods to allow work to be carried out safely. This is due to the minimal space available for machinery and materials.

In these cases, it is expected that the road may be closed to all traffic from approximately 8:30am to 4:00pm on any given day. Council will ensure residents and stakeholders receive timely notice of any closures and will coordinate detours and alternate access where possible.

Cutting corners is not an option. We will continue to communicate with affected residents and stakeholders.  Council is in ongoing contact with our contractors, government funders, and project partners to ensure that the work is done thoroughly and to the highest standard.