The Government says improving this section of the track will enable the road to remain open or be opened sooner after bad weather and floods. The track was most recently closed in late June due to a significant rain event, and several creeks flowing across the track.

Between September 2020 to July 2026, there have been 64 weather events which have impacted the track resulting in closures to all traffic for 229 days and restrictions in place for a further 585 days.

Currently, some sections of the track east of Moomba remain impassable due to flooding, with other sections open but with restrictions.

The Australian and South Australian governments have jointly funded $205 million (80:20) for the Strzelecki Track Upgrade and Sealing Project, with an additional $10 million investment from the South Australian Government.

The Chief Executive of the Department for Infrastructure and Transport, Jon Whelan, said sealing this next section of the Strzelecki Track would be another major step toward a safer, more reliable outback road network.

“A sealed, more dependable outback road corridor means fewer disruptions to travel and the transport of essential supplies and services, resulting in more investment, tourism and regional economic growth,” he said. “Under this important project, we have so far sealed 214 kilometres of the 472-kilometre Strzelecki Track, reducing crash risk and creating more reliable journeys for all road users who depend on this vital transport link.”

• Will you miss the ‘adventure’ of travelling along some of Australia’s most legendary dirt roads when they are all eventually sealed, or will you just be delighted to have access to some incredible country without worrying about the damage you are doing to your rig? Comment below.