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Posted by David Sexton
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27 May, 2026
RECONSTRUCTION works have been completed on the Palmerston Highway, a key Far North Queensland freight route between the Atherton Tablelands and the coast.
Jointly bankrolled by the Commonwealth and Queensland governments the project has restored the route to full pre-disaster function after the devastating impacts of ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper.
Completion of the recovery works is said to represent a significant milestone for Far North Queensland communities, freight operators and agricultural producers.
Federal emergency management minister Kristy McBain said the completion of works on Palmerston Highway would bring benefits.
“This critical supply route has now been restored to its pre-disaster function, helping Tablelands primary producers and residents get around the region safely as we get on with the job of supporting recovery from Tropical Cyclone Jasper,” Ms McBain said.
Federal MP for Leichardt Matt Smith said the repairs restored the Palmerston Highway to pre-Cyclone Jasper conditions.
"With repairs to the Palmerston Highway now complete our farmers, agricultural producers and residents on the Tablelands can send their wares to the rest of Australia more efficiently.
He said the federal government had worked hard to keep Far Northerners moving.
State transport minister Brent Mickelberg said the completion of works marked a critical milestone in Far North Queensland’s recovery.
“The Palmerston Highway is a vital connection for the farmers, freight operators and communities of the Atherton Tablelands,” Mr Mickelberg said.
“This has been a remarkable effort, which saw significant slope repairs occur within a limited road corridor and World Heritage wet rainforest environment, all while keeping traffic moving throughout.”
State Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa said the completed works were a testament to the commitment of both governments.
“The Atherton Tablelands is the agricultural powerhouse of Far North Queensland, and the Palmerston Highway is its connection to the coast, so having this route fully restored is absolutely critical,” Mr Chiesa said.
State Member for Mulgrave Terry James said the restoration of the Palmerston Highway was welcome news.
“The Palmerston Highway is an absolute lifeline for the truck drivers and freight operators who rely on it every single day, and for the families and communities on both sides of the range,” Mr James said.
