A trip along South Australia’s Oodnadatta Track and a visit to the iconic Pink Roadhouse are Big Lap highlights for many grey nomads … and the adventure is about to get a little more accessible.
Works have begun on a flood-prone section of the track in the state’s northwest to improve access after rain and help motorists avoid becoming stranded between Marla and Oodnadatta.
Five major floodways will be reconstructed along an 80-kilometre section of unsealed road between the remote towns of Marla and Oodnadatta, with each floodway reinforced with cement and sealed to make it easier for vehicles to drive on when the track is wet.
Formation works will also take place to raise the surface level of the track in targeted areas, creating table drains which allow water to run off the road, enabling the Oodnadatta Track to remain open or be reopened sooner after rainfall.
An Oodnadatta Track trip is an adventure already enjoyed by many grey nomads. PIC: Cizza
The South Australian Government says concrete walls and mesh Gabion baskets filled with stones will be constructed on both sides of the floodways to prevent floodwaters from eroding the track.
New signage will also be installed to give drivers more warning and longer preparation time, improving safety for road users.
South Australian Minister for Regional Roads, Geoff Brock, said it was vital that the Oodnadatta Track was maintained and upgraded to ensure accessibility.
“Too many times we’ve seen road users become stranded along the track following intense rain and these works will help vehicles and caravans avoid becoming bogged in a remote location,” he said. “Improved floodways and better road conditions will give drivers the confidence to travel on the Oodnadatta Track when severe weather hits, but it’s important to still plan ahead and make sure your vehicle is equipped with emergency supplies.”
The Oodnadatta Track is 600 kilometres of unsealed road between Marla and Maree, and provides a vital freight link for local communities, pastoralists and tourists.
The works are occurring within the 207-kilometre section between Marla and Oodnadatta.
Construction of the upgraded floodways and formation works are expected to be completed by mid-2024.
The entire track will remain open during construction, with speed and lane restrictions in place throughout the affected 80-kilometre section.
The $10.6 million project is funded by the Australian and South Australian governments with the Australian Government committing more than $8.7 million under the Roads to Recovery Program.
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Yes, got stranded at William creek with 20 ft Crusader for 3 days, until authorities gave us ok to go but still wet and slippery to get to Marla