What’s happening?
Significant progress has been made on the recovery of Mount Spec Road near Townsville after more than 60 landslips were triggered by an extreme rainfall event in early 2025. The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) confirmed that emergency repairs, detailed geotechnical investigations, and design work have been completed. Reconstruction works are set to start in October 2025, with Civil Mining & Construction Pty Ltd awarded the contract.
Why it matters
Mount Spec Road is a vital link in North Queensland. The damage earlier this year left the community with restricted access and increased safety risks. The next stage of works will not only restore the road but also strengthen it against future weather events.
Local impact
For Townsville and surrounding communities, safe and reliable road access is essential. The upcoming works are expected to reduce risks at critical landslip sites, which will allow the removal of the restricted access permit system currently in place. Residents, businesses, and visitors will benefit from restored connectivity once the reconstruction is complete.
By the numbers
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More than 60 landslips occurred on Mount Spec Road after an extreme rainfall event in early 2025.
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16 design packages were developed to address extensive road damage.
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Hydromulch has been applied at 16 sites to stabilise soil and promote vegetation growth.
Zoom in
TMR Regional Director (North Queensland) Ross Hodgman said early efforts laid a strong foundation.
“Since the damage occurred, we’ve been working hard behind the scenes to ensure the road can be restored as quickly and safely as possible. This has included emergency repairs, detailed geotechnical investigations, and the development of 16 design packages to address the extensive damage,” Mr Hodgman said.
The early works beginning in October will focus on two critical landslip sites, using geotechnical treatments like shotcreting, soil nailing, and gabion baskets. Landscaping will also be part of the works to restore the road’s function and appearance.
Zoom out
The recovery project is being jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). With Civil Mining & Construction Pty Ltd leading the reconstruction, the project benefits from the contractor’s extensive experience in complex infrastructure delivery.
Mr Hodgman noted the scale of the damage means the recovery will take time.
“This will not be a quick fix due to the scale of the damage and the complexity of the repairs,” he said. “We are committed to working with the contractor to minimise disruptions during construction and will continue to keep the community informed as the project progresses.”
What to look for next?
Early works are expected to begin in October 2025, weather permitting. The initial focus will be on stabilising two critical landslip sites before full reconstruction continues. Community updates will be provided as construction advances.
