Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast is partnering with the South Eastern Water Conservation and Drainage Board to conduct an important survey to better understand the needs of the 
region.

RDALC Chair Evan Flint said the collaboration added a new chapter to RDALC’s history of support for regional infrastructure projects.

“From large scale airport expansions to examining the functionally of back-road bridges, RDALC have actively assisted businesses and organisations to plan for the growth of our region for almost 30 years,” he said.

“RDALC take our role as advocates for regional infrastructure needs seriously and we are pleased to be partnering with the SEWCDB to enable a clearer understanding of the current issues experienced within our region around the drainage network.

“It has been several years since feedback on the condition of the Limestone Coast drainage system has been sought from the public and it is important to gain up-to-date information on current issues, including the social and economic impacts of this major infrastructure network.

“Feedback from the new Limestone Coast Bridges and Drains Impact Survey will be crucial for RDALC and the Drainage Board as we work to plan for the future.”

The South Eastern Water Conservation and Drainage Board manages nearly 2600km of drains across the Limestone Coast.

This infrastructure includes over 2000 bridge and culvert crossings.

The board’s presiding member Brett McLaren said an efficient road transport system was essential for primary producers, essential services, forestry, agriculture, freight and tourism.

“All road users must be able to travel safely across this large network of bridges and crossings,” he said.

“This is not only an economic consideration but a necessity for day-to-day activity across the region.

“I welcome RDALC’s ongoing support and interest in the economic and social impact of improving bridges and crossings, and I encourage as many people as possible to complete the Limestone Coast Bridges and Drains Impact Survey.”

RDALC is seeking input from regional road users, including primary producers, transport operators, Local Government, emergency services and tourism operators.

The information obtained from the survey will assist the SEWCDB to plan and prioritise asset upgrades for the bridge network across the Limestone Coast, for works that will be completed when additional funds become available.

The survey is available now on the RDALC website www.rdalc.org.au/news or by calling Steve Chapple on (08) 8723 1057.