Final Works Underway for Tarkine Drive

Final sealing works on the $23 million Tarkine Drive project is underway, unlocking the eastern loop of the Tarkine Drive.

Work remaining includes the sealing of the Rapid River Road and the installation of innovative measures to reduce the occurrence of road kill, including our iconic Tasmanian devils.

Tourist facility upgrades, including signage, are likely to be completed in early 2015.

The sealing will require intermittent 3-4 day closures of sections of Rapid River Road through November and December.

The western Tarkine loop will remain open. This loop is fully sealed and runs from Smithton past Marrawah and through Arthur River, past the Western Explorer turnoff, returning over the Kanunnah Bridge to Smithton.

Milkshakes Reserve and Lake Chisholm will still be accessible via Tayatea Bridge and Kanunnah Bridge respectively but anyone travelling in this area should check access with the contract supervisor, Paul Walker, by calling 0418 134 632, immediately before travelling.

The Tayatea Bridge was replaced in 2012, so unique attractions, including the Milkshake Hills Forest Reserve, will be conveniently accessible from the east and the west once sealing is complete.

Importantly, the project is already returning dividends to the local community with evidence of increased tourist traffic. This is a great example of how improving infrastructure can boost the economy and create jobs.
Rene Hidding, Minister for Infrastructure