Range brings boost to economy

95 per cent of project’s expenditure is in Queensland

THE Toowoomba Second Range Crossing is providing a major boost to the economy, with the latest data showing better-than-expected results for investment.

Economic data shows more than 95% of the project’s expenditure is spent in Queensland, making the infrastructure project an important economic enabler.

The $1.6 billion project includes a 41km bypass which will run north of Toowoomba from the Warrego Hwy to the Gore Hwy via Charlton.

The Nexus Infrastructure consortium - comprising Plenary Group, Ferrovial, Acciona and Cintra - is contracted by the Queensland Government to finance, design, build and maintain the project for 25 years.

Plenary CEO Paul Oppenheim said the 95% local spend was a great outcome for Queensland businesses and suppliers.

“Exceeding the local content targets we set during the competitive bid phase demonstrates the outcomes that experienced firms can bring to local areas for large-scale projects,” he said.

“Another example of the project’s broader benefits is in its community support, with the three-year partnership with air ambulance and helicopter rescue provider, LifeFlight, and the four rounds of community sponsorship grants for local not-for-profit groups.”

Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Darren Chester named the Toowoomba project as a great example of the success international construction companies had in driving value-for-money for public investment.

“Global companies are bringing innovation and expertise to Australia, working alongside local companies,” he said.

“As an example, we currently have Spanish firm Acciona involved as a partner in the consortium building the Toowoomba Second Range Crossing after previously being a major partner in the construction of the Legacy Way tunnel in Brisbane.”

Nexus Infrastructure chairman John Witheriff said more than 3000 people were inducted to work on the project.

“More than 3000 people have worked on this project so far and with 1800 flow-on jobs expected for the wider community, the impact this project is having the local economy is huge,” he said.

“Creating jobs is critical to long-term success, which is why Nexus has employed 40 trainees so far and we are working with Construction Skills Queensland to provide even more opportunities.”

Mr Witheriff said the project was progressing on schedule and was expected to be completed and operating by the end of 2018.