With most of the rain having now passed, the Buchanan Highway is being graded from Timber Creek through to Top Springs. The Dashwood Crossing is still officially closed but is expected to open in the coming month when water levels drop.
While the road has held up better than last year thanks to roadworks, unfortunately two vehicles were swept off of one floodway, with one recoverable and the other unfortunately washed down river. Heavy rain that fell just before the vehicles crossed a floodway just after Jasper Crossing resulted in high speed water that overpowered the vehicles.
It’s an unfortunate reminder of the risks that can occur even during a fairly mild wet season. Travellers are advised to drive to road conditions, which is 40 – 60 km/h, take it carefully, be mindful of road damage, and assess any water crossings that may be present (although as of this moment, most crossings are down to a drizzle). Currently there is still water pooled on the road in some places.
Travel is restricted to 4WD only, with the road expected to be open to trucks around May.
UPDATE: The road has been graded and is now open to all vehicles as of May 2025.
Walangeri Ngumpinku Aboriginal Corporation 