31st October 2007

TAMBORITHA ROAD REPAIR URGENT: HALL

Every effort must be made to expedite the repair of the Tamboritha Road to assist in Gippsland’s economic recovery following a year of fire and flood, according to Eastern Victoria MP, Peter Hall.

Mr Hall has called on the State Government to make the Tamboritha Road repair a high priority, as there are fears it could be closed for up to another 12 months after it was severely damaged in the mid-year floods.

“One of the townships which was most severely affected was Licola, where roads and bridges were washed out, much private property was lost and significant and serious environmental damage occurred,” Mr Hall told Parliament this week.

“The Licola-Heyfield area desperately needs visitors to return to assist the economic recovery, so as a matter of urgency I call on the government to expedite the repair of the Tamboritha Road so that Victorians can again experience the beauty of our high country, and the local community can be boosted by the return of visitors to the area,” Mr Hall said in Parliament this week.

Mr Hall pointed out it is an access road to some of the high country's most popular areas of natural beauty, including Moroka Gorge, Lake Tali Karng and Bryce's Gorge.

Outside Parliament he noted that while some alternate access could be made to these areas, there was a number of businesses that relied on travellers along the Tamboritha Road that may not be able to survive a prolonged repair effort.

“Quite clearly the local community and the Wellington Shire Council believe this is the highest priority.

“I know they would like to see some interim access along Tamboritha Road by Christmas if possible or by the Easter next year if possible.

“Some quite remarkable work has been done on the Licola Road, but I would urge the Government finish the job and move as quickly as possible on the Tamboritha Road,” Mr Hall said.

Media contact:                  Peter Hall      (03) 5174 7066   or 0427 747 066