Over a thousand residents of Elimbah are facing an uphill battle to preserve their homes and cherished way of life following the unveiling of two options for a Bruce Highway Western Alternative, a development that could spell disaster for this tight-knit community.
Option 1 proposes the construction of the Stage 4 path of the Bruce Highway Western Alternative, which would run west of the North Coast rail line. Option 2, on the other hand, suggests an eastern route adjacent to the rail line.
Unfortunately, both options loom ominously for the residents of Elimbah, who fear the imminent resumption of hundreds of properties.
In response to a letter received on 1 Dec 2023, warning of the potential impact on their properties, homeowner Jason Smith leaped into action. In less than two weeks, he initiated an E-Petition, formed a Facebook group, and held a Community Town Hall meeting with fellow landowners.
Their resounding message: whilst the community recognises the need for a Western Alternative to the Bruce Highway, it should not come at the grave expense of their homes and properties.
A Personal Struggle for Homeowners
For many residents like Rod Brady, who has called Elimbah home for 24 years, the prospect of losing their beloved homes is a heart-wrenching reality.
Tanya Balashova, a resident for five years, faces an uncertain future as well. Although her property may not be directly impacted, any option chosen will disrupt her way of life. The years of effort and love invested in her property cannot easily be replaced.
Scott Moore, who moved into his Elimbah home at the start of the Covid pandemic, will see half of his backyard disappear under either option, replacing a peaceful view with the sight and sound of a highway.
Cara Macpherson, who has only lived in her “dream home” for over a year, faces a similar fate. She and her partner had sold their previous homes to build a future for their family. The thought of starting anew, if forced to leave, is a daunting prospect.
Gilda Cowell, a resident of over 70 years, worries about the potential impact on the local flora and fauna. Her property is designated as a Land for Wildlife site, and any alteration to the area could disrupt the delicate balance of wallum frogs, grey kangaroos, and bird species that inhabit the region.
Even the local economy stands to suffer. James Francis, a pineapple farmer in Elimbah who supplies fruit Australia-wide, could see his farm divided in half, rendering continued business operations unsustainable. He employs more than 20 individuals, highlighting the ripple effect of this proposed development.
The Bruce Highway Western Alternative
The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) defends the new transport corridor, describing it as a “long-term alternative to the Bruce Highway” aimed at addressing traffic congestion over time.
According to a TMR spokesman, the project promises improved travel time, reliability, access, connectivity, safety, and travel options for both existing and emerging communities. The TMR remains committed to minimising property impacts and pledges to engage with potentially affected property owners to understand their unique circumstances. As of now, no property impacts for Stage 4 have been confirmed, with resumptions only considered if construction becomes imminent.
The Bruce Highway Western Alternative is a long-term planning endeavour, and specific timelines for planning, design, and construction remain uncertain, contingent on government priorities and future funding commitments.
Eligible residents have until 9 Feb 2024 to submit their feedback on the TMR website, providing them with a valuable opportunity to influence the outcome of this critical decision that could forever change the landscape of Elimbah.
Published 2-Jan-2024
