East Kimberley seals $18.3m road to recovery

A major aquaculture project and a proposed Ord River cotton development will be linked to markets with an $18 million state government road sealing initiative in the Kimberley.

The funding is to seal Moonamang Road which links Western Australia to the Northern Territory, and is part of the wider WA Recovery Plan.

The route is particularly integral for transport during the wet season and its development is intended to boost agricultural growth in the Ord.

The project includes a realignment to support the proposed Knox Plain development of Ord Stage 2, aimed at bolstering the emerging cotton industry and establishing cotton processing in the East Kimberley.

Traditional owners will also be provided with easier access to Miriuwung-Gajerrong Lands throughout the year, with the upgraded road providing additional opportunity for cultural practices to be undertaken ‘on country’.

A local lead and silver mine, Legune cattle station, and a black tiger prawn aquaculture project (Project Sea Dragon) are among those intended to benefit from the newly sealed 7.5 kilometre stretch of road.

Local aquaculture, agriculture, and mining are not the only industries targeted by the investment.

"It will create a pipeline of jobs, and improve transport safety in the region, which also benefits local tourism and into the future will support our efforts in attracting tourism opportunities to WA – when we're able to,” Premier Mark McGowan said.

Regional development minister Alannah MacTiernan said Moonamang Road was vital for the local community and businesses.

"It is a crucial connection for freight and exports for the agriculture and food industry in the East Kimberley, and will create even more opportunities in this burgeoning region,” she said.

Work will take place during the next two dry seasons, with contractors, materials and equipment to be sourced from the region where possible, the state government said.