The Nationals’ Member for Mildura, Jade Benham, says the State Government’s decision to review the Birchip ‘Five Ways’ intersection is a positive step for road users and the local community.
The intersection, which connects the Birchip-Wycheproof Road, Corack Road, Birchip-Sea Lake Road and the Sunraysia Highway, has long been identified by residents and road users as a dangerous and difficult-to-navigate junction.
The volume of heavy vehicle traffic, including grain and fuel transport, combined with the complexity of the layout, continues to create serious safety risks for motorists.
“The Birchip Five Ways is a dangerous and confusing intersection, and I have raised it repeatedly on behalf of local residents and the Birchip Development Group, who have been calling for action for some time,” Ms Benham said.
“It is an important freight route as well as a key connection for local families and surrounding communities, but its current design is out of date and clearly not fit for purpose.”
Ms Benham said confirmation that the Department of Transport and Planning is undertaking a review of the site, with short-term recommendations expected in May and discussions ongoing with Buloke Shire Council on longer-term solutions, is an important development.
“This is about ensuring regional roads are safe and reliable,” Ms Benham said. People in regional communities deserve to feel safe on the roads they use every day.
“I will continue to push for real action that delivers safer roads across regional Victoria.”
