August 23rd, 2022Building Two Safer Sunraysia Highway Intersections

Farmers, freight operators and the community will soon have safer and smoother journeys on
the Sunraysia Highway, with works to upgrade two intersections between Birchip and Woomelang set to start in August.

Crews will upgrade the Mcloughlans Road and Birchip-Rainbow Road intersections on the
Sunraysia Highway thanks to a joint $4.16 million investment from the Australian and Victorian
governments.
Both intersections are located on bends and will be remodelled to T-shaped intersections to
improve visibility and allow all road users to safely enter and exit the highway.
Crews will also widen and resurface sections of the Sunraysia Highway, add a new left turn lane
from the Sunraysia Highway into Birchip-Rainbow Road, build a raised median on BirchipRainbow Road, and install safety barriers and new street lighting at both intersections.
The new intersections will no longer be curved, meaning it will be easier for drivers travelling on
Mcloughlans Road and Birchip-Rainbow Road to see vehicles travelling on the Sunraysia Highway.
The Sunraysia Highway provides a key road for both locals and our broader agricultural industry,
with more than 500 vehicles using this section of the highway each day, including around 70
trucks and other heavy vehicles.
These works form part of the $68.75 million Roads of Strategic Importance – Ballarat to Ouyen
corridor which is improving access along the Sunraysia Highway and is jointly funded by the
Australian and Victorian governments.
Works will continue at the intersections until early 2023, with the roads to remain open and
reduced speed limits in place. For more information visit regionalroads.vic.gov.au.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development
and Local Government Catherine King said:
“There’s a mix of both heavy and light vehicles sharing this section of the highway, which is why
the Australian Government is investing in this project to ensure the intersections are safe for
everyone.”
Victorian Minister for Roads and Road Safety Ben Carroll said:
“We’re investing a record amount in infrastructure projects across the state and that includes in
regional Victoria, ensuring the needs of our communities are funded and delivered.”
Quote attributable to State Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp:
“A traffic management team will be in place during works to help everyone travel safely through
the area. Please drive to conditions for the safety of workers and all other road users.”