Green Outcomes for the Maryborough-Hervey Bay Road Upgrade
It’s always sad to see beautiful trees getting bulldozed to make way for a road upgrade but these days the government is becoming more environmentally aware and the latest upgrade to the Maryborough to Hervey Bay Road is one example of that awareness.
Main Roads will do its bit for the environment when 1500 trees are planted as part of the $11.5 million upgrade of Maryborough-Hervey Bay Road.
Main Roads Minister Warren Pitt and Member for Hervey Bay Andrew McNamara said the planting would offset the environmental effects of removing vegetation to widen and strengthen a 6.9 kilometre section of road.
“During the planning stage of the Maryborough-Hervey Bay Road project, Main Roads environmental officers worked to find a way to offset the effects of any necessary vegetation removal,” Mr Pitt said.
“The team was able to identify a revegetation site about 2.5 kilometres from the roadworks, in an area remote from future development needs.
“Main Roads recognises the value of protecting our environment and where possible, will work with the community to make up for any loss of vegetation.
“I’m pleased the department has been able to play its part to keep this project as green-friendly as po ssible, while at the same time improving an important road link that connects Maryborough to Hervey Bay.”
Mr McNamara said the planting was expected to begin in March next year, which provided ideal conditions for tree planting.
“Investigations have shown the site conditions are favourable for the planting of endemic species – the soil is good and water is available onsite,” he said.
“The Department of Natural Resources has approved this project to re-plant vegetation in the new area. Fraser Coast Regional Council will act as trustees for the site, which should guarantee the long-term protection of the trees.
“The revegetation works and locations of the new plant life will be designed to provide a wildlife corridor link between substantial ecosystems and habitats.”
The planting will be carried out by Fraser Coast Regional Council.
The Maryborough-Hervey Bay Road upgrade project includes upgrading five intersections, installing new overhead lighting, and improving bus stop areas, private property accesses and signage. Works are expected to be completed in April 2009, weather permitting.
