Posted inByron Bay, Feature, Roads and Infrastructure

Major upgrade completed on key Northern Rivers road

Communities along Wilsons Creek Road in the Northern Rivers now have more reliable access, following the completion of a $10.7 million upgrade between Upper Wilsons Creek and Alidenes Road.

The project, jointly funded by the Albanese and Minns Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, has delivered a series of improvements aimed at strengthening the road and reducing future damage from severe weather.

Works included culvert upgrades, landslip repairs, shoulder widening, drainage improvements and pavement stabilisation, along with resurfacing across multiple sections.

Construction began in mid-2025 and was completed in March 2026, with further flood repair works planned in coming years.

Federal Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain said the upgrade would improve travel reliability for locals.

“People who use Wilsons Creek Road can now look forward to improved journeys in all types of weather thanks to this upgrade,” she said.

“Roads link communities to vital services like healthcare and education, as well as enabling the delivery of freight and the movement of livestock on a more reliable road network.”

NSW Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison said the project would help ensure the road remains accessible during challenging conditions.

“Wilsons Creek Road is a vital link for people living in these hinterland communities, and this upgrade means safer, more reliable access to work, school and essential services,” she said.

“In a region prone to heavy rainfall, this work means locals can stay connected and keep moving, even during severe weather.”

NSW Recovery Minister Janelle Saffin said the road was critical for nearby communities.

“For the communities of Wilsons Creek, Huonbrook, and Wanganui, this road isn’t just a transport route – it is a lifeline,” she said.

“By repairing major landslips and strengthening the pavement, we are giving these residents the peace of mind that they can stay connected… even when the weather turns.”

Federal Member for Richmond Justine Elliot said the project formed part of broader investment in resilient infrastructure.

“The Albanese Labor Government is helping the North Coast build back better, by ensuring our infrastructure and roads are more resilient in future weather events,” she said.

Byron Shire Mayor Sarah Ndiaye said the completed works had been well received locally.

“Wilsons Creek Road is looking great, and the local community is really happy with the flood repair work that has been delivered to date,” she said.

The project is part of ongoing recovery efforts across the Northern Rivers, with further works to continue as the region rebuilds from recent natural disasters.


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