Category Archives: Roads and Transport

Ongoing investment in our rural and regional roads network is vital to the long-term prosperity of our towns and villages, with robust road infrastructure the backbone of thriving local communities, Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said.

Speaking at the official opening of upgrades to Tara-Bectric Road at Temora – which together with other improvements, including the Tara-Bectric Road Bridge, brings total investment in the road to more than $3.5 million under the previous Coalition Government’s Fixing Country Roads program – Ms Cooke said our roads infrastructure lies at the heart of the social and economic health of the regions.

“Ensuring rural and regional communities continue to get their fair share of road funding is vital for the ongoing safety and productivity of our local towns and villages,” Ms Cooke said.

“Our roads are the backbone of the community – it’s how we get to work, school, medical appointments, how we socialise and keep in touch with friends and family. Our roads are vital to our local trade and commerce, as well as tourism – and it’s for these reasons we need roadways that allow people to conduct business, stay connected, and stay safe.

“When you consider that more than one-in-five jobs in the Cootamundra electorate are directly related to agriculture – that’s over 7,000 people – we need to ensure we have the infrastructure in place that supports the ag-sector, and allows the world-class goods that we produce, to get to where it needs to go efficiently and without delay.

“It’s with this in mind that I have advocated tirelessly for our region, to ensure the Regional Roads Minister fully understands and appreciates the pivotal role our roads play in connecting our towns, and enabling economic growth.

“The previous Coalition Government certainly recognised this, and committed billions in programs like Fixing Local Roads, Fixing Country Bridges and Fixing Country Roads, which enhanced local road networks, and provided the investment needed to repair this vital infrastructure following drought, fires, and floods.

“Road projects like this here in Temora, drive big benefits for safety and the economy in the bush, and ensures the network our communities rely on every day is dependable, smooth and safe,” she said.

Photo: Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke was on hand to officially open the upgrades to Tara-Bectric Road, Temora. She was joined by members of the community, including Temora Shire Council Mayor Rick Firman.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke is urging residents to take extra care on the road as motorists across New South Wales plan their upcoming Easter holiday weekend.

“There will be increased traffic on the roads over the long weekend, so if you’re planning on a long journey, or simply driving around town, your safety and the safety of your passengers and other drivers, should be a top priority,” Ms Cooke said.

“So, whether you’re heading off on holiday, hitting the road to enjoy the various activities and events in the region, or catching-up with family and friends this Easter, if you’re out on the roads, please take care.

“Most crashes occur on country roads; we must remember that road safety is a shared responsibility, so when you’re on the road, think about how your actions can affect the safety of your family, friends, and those around you,” she said.

Ms Cooke said double-demerits will apply from Thursday, March 28 to Monday, April 1 inclusive, with NSW Police out in force taking a proactive approach to road safety this Easter.

“It’s always a good idea to plan ahead – including regular breaks – allowing plenty of time to get to where you’re going,” Ms Cooke said.

“Always observe the speed limit and drive according to road conditions; obviously don’t text or use your mobile phone unless it’s hands-free; ensure you and your passengers all wear seatbelts; and it should go without saying, but definitely don’t drive if you’re under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

“So far in 2024, the NSW road toll is higher this year compared to the same time in 2023, so please, let’s all play our part in making sure we get to our destinations safely, and ensure the Easter long weekend is a memorable one for all the right reasons,” she said.

The recommencement of work in Wallendbeen to replace the bridge on Burley Griffin Way is long overdue, and the department responsible for the build must do better when it comes to communicating with the local community about the project, Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said.

Ms Cooke said Transport for New South Wales has finally returned to the site this week to restart work on the bridge, after advising that minor work will be carried out before ‘major work’ begins on Monday 4 March.

“This project is beyond overdue; it is located on a major traffic corridor and is a key route linking our goods and services to markets across the state and beyond, so I am of course relieved to know that work will get underway again, and that we will finally have this vital piece of infrastructure up and running once and for all,” Ms Cooke said.

“Obviously the new bridge won’t be in place overnight, with Transport for New South Wales advising that the project will not be completed until at least the middle of 2025.

“Leaving aside the fact the bridge was supposed to be completed last year, I ask Transport for New South Wales to work with the local community as closely as possible, to ensure they’re kept up-to-date on the revised construction schedule, and the progress of the work.

“Local residents tell me they feel as though they’ve been left in the dark when it comes to the works timetable; this is simply not good enough.

“An email to locals from Transport for New South Wales the day before work gets underway does not meet community expectations when it comes to appropriate consultation.

“There are local small businesses operating in the area – some under difficult circumstances given the disruption that a project of this size causes – so that must be taken into account during the coming weeks and months.

“Disruptions are inevitable, but a lack of communication and consultation is avoidable, and I implore Transport for New South Wales to either come and speak to residents in-person, or pick up the phone, to ensure locals are fully across the details of the project schedule, and can make the necessary arrangements, so that disruptions to their lives and small businesses, are kept to a minimum,” she said.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke is demanding answers from the NSW State Government over why work is yet to commence on a major level crossing upgrade in the area.

Ms Cooke said an upgrade of the level crossing on Goldfields Way near Junee was due for completion at the end of 2023, but as yet, nothing has been done to improve the crossing, which she says, remains a safety risk.

“The level crossing on Goldfields Way – which is located on a busy highway in the heart of the Riverina – has long been a concern for locals who, 12 months ago, were promised a complete safety overhaul of this site,” Ms Cooke said.

“Residents were led to believe work would soon get underway on the installation of high-intensity LED flashing lights, bells, and retro-reflective boom gates.

“But as of today, nothing has been done; the NSW Labor Government and Transport for New South Wales have clearly been dragging their feet when it comes to implementing potentially life-saving upgrades to our road and rail networks; it seems their priorities lie elsewhere.

“Not only are they behind schedule on this project, but calls for upgrades to the level crossing just up the line on Canola Way, have fallen on deaf ears.

“Less than 12 months ago, the Canola Way crossing was the site of a major collision between a truck and a train; the crossing is located on a sharp ‘s’ bend, and presents considerable safety risks.

“While more warning signs have been erected, clearly more needs to be done to improve safety at the Canola Way level crossing.

“Whether it’s local residents on the school or grocery run, heavy freight operators transporting goods in and out of the area, our farmers moving stock, or those on board the trains, we need a greater focus and more investment on keeping people safe at level crossings; alarmingly though it appears the NSW Labor Government has no clue, no idea, and is nowhere to be seen on this.

“I’m calling on the Regional Transport Minister to visit the region and see for herself the issues that continue to plague these crossings, and to make the safety of our communities a top priority for 2024, and immediately start work on upgrading these level crossings,” she said.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke says ensuring rural and regional communities continue to get their fair share of road funding is vital for the ongoing safety and productivity of our local towns and villages.

Ms Cooke met with Narrandera Shire Council Mayor Neville Kschenka and General Manager George Cowan to announce that $3,976,990 in additional road repair funding has been secured for the Council, under the Regional Emergency Road Repair Fund (RERRF), to undertake maintenance work on the 1,556 kilometres of local and regional roads within the LGA.

“It’s my job to shine a light on issues in our electorate, and one of my number one priorities is making sure we have adequate funding to help provide access to roads that are safe and convenient for our communities,” Ms Cooke said.

“It’s with this in mind that I have advocated tirelessly for our region to ensure the Roads Minister fully understands and appreciates the pivotal role our roads play in connecting our towns, and enabling economic growth.

“As a result I am thrilled to announce that we have been able to secure close to $4 million in additional funding for much-needed repair and maintenance of our local roads in and around the Narrandera region, which is a significant step towards ensuring the safety and convenience of our community members,” she said.

Narrandera Shire Council Mayor Neville Kschenka said small road maintenance projects can drive big benefits in the bush.

“The funding will be dedicated to addressing a range of road issues, including pothole repairs, resurfacing, and general road safety improvements,” Mayor Kschenka said.

“I certainly encourage local residents and businesses to continue providing input on road conditions, and areas that require attention; this feedback helps us make informed decisions about allocating resources where they are needed most,” he said.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke is urging motorists to take care during the Christmas holiday period after ten people lost their lives on the state’s roads over the weekend, including “a much-loved man” of the Cowra community.

An 84-year-old man died after the minibus he was travelling in, was involved in a collision in Cowra on Saturday night. The driver of the bus – the Cowra Bowling Club courtesy bus – along with four other passengers were injured.

“This is a tragic incident, and our deepest sympathies are with the deceased gentleman’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time,” Ms Cooke said.

“My thoughts and prayers are also with those injured in the accident. Nobody ever wants to hear news like this, particularly at Christmas time, and I want to extend my most heartfelt support to the families of all those involved, and to Bowling Club staff and patrons, some of whom I sat down and spoke with today, and who are understandably extremely shaken by what’s happened.

“The club has offered staff and patrons access to counselling services, and I applaud them for the support they’ve provided,” she said.

Ms Cooke also met with members of the Cowra Police to thank them for their response, and extended her appreciation to the NSW Ambulance paramedics, and the members of Fire & Rescue NSW who attended the scene and provided support.

“I’d like to express my gratitude to the emergency responders and thank them for being on call during the Christmas season, standing ready to assist if and when they’re needed; they work tirelessly to respond to emergencies, often sacrificing time with their own families during the holiday period, and I want them to know their service is never taken for granted,” Ms Cooke said.

As the school holidays get underway and traffic increases, Ms Cooke said the entire community has a role to play in being vigilant and responsible on the roads.

“I simply encourage everyone to exercise caution on the roads, adhere to speed limits, drive to the conditions, avoid distractions, and by doing so, hopefully we can help ensure that everyone reaches their destinations safely,” Ms Cooke said.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke says ensuring rural and regional communities continue to get their fair share of road funding is vital for the ongoing safety and productivity of our local towns and villages.

Ms Cooke met with Bland Shire Council Mayor Brian Monaghan today to announce that $6,481,778 in additional road repair funding has been secured for the Bland Shire Council, under the Regional Emergency Road Repair Fund (RERRF), to undertake maintenance work on the 2,536 kilometres of local and regional roads within the LGA.

“Our roads are the backbone of the community; it’s how we get to work, school, medical appointments, how we socialise and keep in touch with friends and family,” Ms Cooke said.

“It’s with this in mind that I have advocated tirelessly for our region, to ensure the Roads Minister fully understands and appreciates the pivotal role our roads play in connecting our towns, and enabling economic growth.

“As a result I am thrilled to announce that we have been able to secure more than $6.4 million in additional funding for much-needed repair and maintenance of our local roads in the Bland Shire, which is a significant step towards ensuring the safety and convenience of our community members,” she said.

Bland Shire Council Mayor Brian Monaghan says small road maintenance projects can drive big benefits for safety and the economy in the bush.

“We are always under pressure to further fund our roads network; this funding will greatly assist Council’s ability to deliver safer roads for residents,” Mayor Monaghan said.

“Council is extremely pleased that Steph Cooke is listening to local communities. Particularly as we have an enormous road network in the Bland Shire and the damage caused by the recent wet period has resulted in deterioration beyond the Council’s ability to independently fund repairs,” he said.

Maintenance work may include heavy road patching, reshaping and smoothing unsealed roads, carrying out work to improve drainage from the road surface, rehabilitating sections of road, and resurfacing work.

Photograph caption: Steph Cooke with Bland Shire Council Mayor Brian Monaghan in West Wyalong.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke says ensuring rural and regional communities continue to get their fair share of road funding is vital for the ongoing safety and productivity of our local towns and villages.

Ms Cooke was joined by Cowra Mayor Ruth Fagan to announce that $3,251,113 in additional road repair funding had been secured for the Cowra Shire Council, under the Regional Emergency Road Repair Fund (RERRF), to undertake maintenance work on the 1,272 kilometres of local and regional roads within the LGA.

“As the local member, and as someone who travels on our region’s roads every single day, I know how important it is for residents and businesses to have access to sound road infrastructure,” Ms Cooke said.

“It’s with this in mind that I have advocated tirelessly for our region, to ensure the Roads Minister fully understands and appreciates the pivotal role our roads play in connecting our towns, and enabling economic growth.

“As a result I am thrilled to announce that we have been able to secure more than $3 million in additional funding for much-needed repair and maintenance of our local roads in and around Cowra, which is a significant step towards ensuring the safety and convenience of our community members,” she said.

Cowra Shire Council Mayor Ruth Fagan said the funding will be dedicated to addressing a range of road issues, including pothole repairs, resurfacing, and general road safety improvements.

“This investment will not only enhance quality of life for residents, but also support local businesses and industries that rely on efficient road networks,” Mayor Fagan said.

Mayor Fagan encouraged local residents and businesses to continue providing input on road conditions and areas that require attention.

“Your feedback is invaluable in helping us make informed decisions, and allocating resources where they are needed most,” she said.

Longstanding concerns about Annie Pyers Drive, home to the Dog on the Tuckerbox, have been heard by the Minister for Regional Transport and Roads during a visit to the Cootamundra electorate.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke joined the Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, the Hon Jenny Aitchison at the location on Friday, together with representatives from Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council (CGRC).

“We know the upkeep required at Annie Pyers Drive is a significant burden for Council given the high volumes of traffic, including heavy vehicles, off the Hume Highway,” Ms Cooke said.

“I have made many representations on this matter to Transport for New South Wales over the years, including to the Regional Road reclassification Review.

“It is clear a longer-term solution for the road is desperately needed because the pavement deteriorates too quickly between maintenance works.

“The condition of the road is also a significant safety issue for all who access the service centre, including those who own a business and work here.”

Ms Cooke said although funding secured by CGRC for safety works at Annie Pyers Drive last year has been a significant boost, a longer-term solution would be for the road to be reclassified.

“This would allow Council to focus on crucial road and maintenance works elsewhere in the network and provide local businesses and road users some surety that the ongoing upkeep and works required at this location will be achieved.”

Following their recent meeting about the Wallendbeen Bridge replacement project, Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has met with the Minister for Regional Transport and Roads on site.

“After calling for a resolution to access issues which have put this project at a standstill since March, I appreciate the Minister visiting the worksite in person to better understand the impacts of further delays,” Ms Cooke said.

“The community of Wallendbeen is quite rightly frustrated by the lack of progress since the Government went into caretaker mode.

“Equally so are our local primary producers and freight operators given the temporary structure is inadequate for sustained freight movements, particularly during the harvest season.”

Ms Cooke said the Minister’s visit follows a Transport for NSW (TfNSW) community information session in Wallendbeen at the end of June.

At the drop-in session, residents were informed three rail possession arrangements between TfNSW and the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) would be required in order to complete the project.

“Although access to the rail corridor is crucial for key components of the build to be completed, the timeframes indicated for this to take place are a huge concern.

“With an initial project completion date of late 2023, the final rail possession is now not expected to take place until to September 2024.

“I therefore welcome the opportunity to further discuss the project with the Minister, to ensure we leave no stone unturned in seeking to fast-track the completion of this crucial project for the region.”