Tooraweenah Road Upgrade

Tooraweenah Road provides a direct route between Coonamble and the Warrumbungles and is currently made up of around 30km of sealed road and 27km of unsealed road.

The Tooraweenah Road Upgrade Project includes road sealing and remediation, culvert upgrades and improving flood resilience across the 27km of unsealed road.

The Australian Government has committed a total of $41.2 million towards the project as part of the Investment Road and Rail Program.

Benefits

The benefits of the Tooraweenah Road upgrade are:

• improved freight and tourism access to Coonamble
• improved road safety
• reduced travel times for all road users
• flood resilience.

What is happening now?

Council has completed the Review of Environmental Factors (REF) and early consultation with landowners directly impacted by the upgrade project.

On 7 October 2025, Council called for tenders for the construction of 27km of Tooraweenah Road and associated infrastructure. Advertising was placed both locally and in the Sydney Morning Herald, with the tender closing on the 7 November 2025.

What is happening next?

The tender process is quite lengthy and reflects the necessary protocol needed for a $41.2 million project. We estimate that from the time we commence advertising, it could take up to 16 weeks until a contract is in place.

Frequently Asked Questions

(please click on the question to reveal the answer)

• When is the road upgrade starting?

  Major construction will occur once the contractor is appointed. it is anticipated that works will commence on site in the new year.

• How long will the road upgrade work take from start to finish?

  Once the contractor has been engaged, the full road upgrade is expected to be completed by late 2027, subject to weather conditions and site access.

• Who is building the upgraded road?

  The road will be upgraded by a single contractor who will be identified as part of the tender process. Whilst Council did consider a dual delivery model initially, this change in approach reflects Council's commitment to cost efficient and timely delivery. Council has engaged Projence to oversee the entire project.

• The road is often impacted by flooding. Will the upgrade make the road 100% flood-proof?

  No. While the upgraded road will not be entirely flood-proof, the design has been informed by detailed flood modeling, with the location and size of the culverts carefully planned to improve drainage and reduce the frequency and duration of flood-related impacts on the road.

• The road provides critical access for farmers during harvest. How will access be managed?

  The project team will work closely with residents along Tooraweenah Road to identify critical periods, such as harvest and livestock movements. Where possible, construction activities will be scheduled to minimise disruption and alternative access solutions, such as temporary road diversions or staged works, will be implemented to maintain access during key times.

• Is there opportunity for local contractors or businesses to be involved with the project?

  Wherever possible, the project team is committed to engaging local contractors, suppliers, and service providers to support the delivery of the road upgrade. Opportunities will be shared in accordance with Council policy through Council’s procurement processes and advertising.

• I am a resident on Tooraweenah Road, how will you keep me updated on what is happening?

  Residents will be kept informed through regular project updates, which may include newsletters, letterbox drops, emails, and on-site signage. The project team will also provide direct communication ahead of any works that may affect access to individual properties. This website will be updated throughout the life of the project.

Project updates

Tooraweenah Road Project - Residents' Update - June 2025