Pictured at Mondays major announcement is from left to right – Peter Stitt (Transport for NSW) -Alistair Lunn (Director of West for Transport) – Sam Farraway (Minister for Regional Transport and Roads) – Chris Roylance (Forbes Deputy Mayor) – Ray Graham (Bland Shire Council Director of Technical Services) – Steve Loane (Forbes Council General Manager).

The long anticipated announcement was made on Monday 19th, December that the Newell Highway had reopened between Forbes and West Wyalong after flood waters and extensive damage forced an excruciating 49-day closure.

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said it was a credit to the Transport for NSW crews who worked around the clock to have the highway open before Christmas for families looking forward to spending the festive season with loved ones.

“The Newell Highway is a key regional route for residents, tourists and especially freight operators and we appreciate just how difficult this extended closure has been for many people,” Mr Farraway said.

“An enormous effort has gone into pothole patching and rebuilding entire sections of road to allow two lanes to reopen today for holiday traffic under a reduced speed of between 40 km/h and 60 km/h along about a 30 kilometre section of road.

“This is a short-term solution to open the road before Christmas. Extensive work will be required on this section of the corridor for a number of months, with crews also continuing work right up to Christmas.

Sam sent thanks “to all of our council partners who have maintained the detour routes during the closure, particularly thanks to Forbes, Weddin and Bland councils for their support on the state network.”

More than 10,500 tonnes of asphalt has been required to complete work between Forbes and West Wyalong so far. It is estimated some 10,000 kilometers of road network has been impacted by the flooding crisis.

Sam emphasised that the most important message for all motorists is to drive to the conditions and allow extra travel time – at least 20 minutes – between Forbes and West Wyalong. 

For the latest road updates including closures visit www.livetraffic.com.au 

NSW Farmers are urging motorists to take extra care on country roads this Christmas, with months of flooding causing widespread damage. 

NSW Farmers Grains Committee Chair, Justin Everitt advises there is still a lot of heavy machinery on the move across the state after flooding delayed harvest efforts, and changed road conditions mean everyone had to exercise care. 

“There’s still a lot of large agricultural vehicles moving on country roads at the moment, and we’d hate to see a joyous time of the year turn to tragedy for any family,” Mr Everitt said. 

“The roads are pretty shocking in a lot of areas, and the delayed start to harvest means you may see more big vehicles.” 

“We’re urging everyone to slow down and keep an eye out so we can all get home for a merry Christmas.” 

Even though getting stuck behind a slow-moving truck or tractor can be frustrating, showing patience and keeping a safe distance is critical for everyone’s safety. 

“Conditions may not be what you expect, so don’t take any risks because the results could be catastrophic,” said Mr Everitt. 

“Remember, if the driver of a large vehicle can’t see you then they don’t know you’re there – so stay back at a safe distance and don’t be impatient.” 

“It’s better to be a little late than not to arrive at all, let’s all work together to get to the finish line safely.”