Motorists using the Pooncarie Road to Menindee will soon experience safer journeys and reduced travel times thanks to a $25 million investment by the Federal and New South Wales Liberal and Nationals Governments.

Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton was in Menindee today to make the major announcement.

“It gives me great pleasure to announce $12.5 million in Federal Liberal and Nationals Government funding will be allocated to sealing 70 kilometres of the Pooncarie Road in the Far West of my electorate,” Mr Coulton said.

“As it stands, this road is a partially sealed, naturally formed road along the Darling River floodplains. This funding commitment will better connect the Far West with the rest of the state, opening up endless tourism potential and offering enormous advantages for local agricultural industries.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Federal Liberal and Nationals Government is committed to getting people home to their families sooner and safer.

“Road safety is of deep concern to each and every one of us. Through our partnerships with all levels of government, we’re pushing hard to improve our roads, making sure vehicles continue to become safer and encouraging people to make better decisions when they are on our road network,” Mr McCormack said.

Deputy Premier of NSW, John Barilaro, said the New South Wales Government has reserved $12.5 million for the project from the Regional Growth Fund.

“Across the state, we are investing in safer roads and safer highways which means more jobs in construction and jobs in manufacturing. This is what you can deliver with a strong economy and that is exactly what the Liberal and Nationals are doing,” Mr Barilaro said.
State Member for Barwon, Kevin Humphries, said the project will provide new tourism opportunities for the Far West.

“This joint Federal and State funding commitment offers exciting potential for tourism growth in the Far West of NSW,” Mr Humphries said.

General Manager of Central Darling Shire Council, Greg Hill, said the Pooncarie Road is a crucial road for the region.

“The Pooncarie Road is a centrepiece for connectivity across the Central Darling Shire and beyond, and I thank the Federal and State Governments for their commitment to this important project.”

Nationals Candidate for Barwon, Andrew Schier, said he is pleased the project has been ticked off.

“Improving roads infrastructure for the Far West is a huge win for the electorate of Barwon,” Mr Schier said.