General News
11 January, 2026
Crossing upgrade underway
RESIDENTS living in Old Shirley Road in Beaufort have welcomed the commencement of work on the level crossing. Last year, the Federal and State Governments unveiled plans to upgrade two level crossings in Pyrenees Shire to improve the safety of motorists and passengers. The upgrades are part of a $54 million package at 32 high-priority crossings.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the level crossing upgrades are being funded under Round 2 of the Regional Level Crossing Upgrade Fund (RLCUF) which is jointly funded by both levels of government.
Both the Finnegan Road and Old Shirley Road level crossings in Beaufort are to receive upgrades to deliver boom gates and axle counters.
“The Albanese Government is committed to improving railway crossing safety across Victoria and the country through the Regional Level Crossing Upgrade Fund.
“This funding is supporting upgrades like boom gates, signage, flashing lights and rumble strips, to better alert motorists and pedestrians approaching regional railway crossings.
“We will continue to work with the Victorian Government to make level crossing safer across the state,” Ms King said.
Local resident Paul Callanan said he’s delighted with the commencement of work at the Old Shirley Road crossing.
“It’s a busy country road, we have heavy machinery going up and down here and improvements to the crossing will make it safer for everyone.
“I’ve spoken to other residents and I think everyone is supporting of improved road safety.
Mr Callanan was particularly complementary about the way the work crews have approached the project.
“I’m very impressed with the way the workers have gone about their job. It’s a nice, clean site, it’s very safe, they’ve managed the traffic really well,” he said.
Ripon MP Martha Haylett said the upgrades were all about ensuring people can come home safe.
“Country level crossings can be dangerous places for motorists, pedestrians and train drivers.
“These upgrades will make such a difference to the people who drive through these level crossings every day. I’m really proud to be delivering these upgrades in partnership with the Albanese Government,” Ms Haylett said.
It’s understood work on the Finnegan Road crossing will commence in the first half of 2026.
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