China Camp Road – Wujal Wujal Section

Overview

Summary

China Camp Road runs from Ayton to China Camp.

It mostly sits within Douglas Shire, but there is a section at the Ayton end which is located within Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire.

China Camp Road is an important link for both communities, providing the only access for residents, Traditional Owners living on country and cattle properties. It also connects various points of interest including the CREB track – enabling 4WD enthusiasts and trail bike tour groups to connect to Cape Tribulation Bloomfield Road and camp at Yindilli Campgrounds or Kija [Roaring Meg] on their journey.

The road was damaged in TC Jasper causing it to be derated to a 5-tonne limit on the concrete section. A bypass road for heavy vehicles to detour around the 5-tonne limited concrete section is now open. While gravel has been laid on the steeper slopes, travellers are asked to take care.

Douglas Shire Council and Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire are working collaboratively to complete repairs to China Camp Road and a Memorandum of Understanding outlining the roles and responsibilities for the China Camp Road repair was signed on 6 December 2024.

Cost of Project

Douglas Shire Council has completed geotechnical assessments to scope out the repair work required and Queensland Reconstruction Authority has confirmed the repairs will be funded under the Reconstruction of Essential Public Assets Program.

Approach to Repairs

Overall Approach

• Initial step will be to complete geotechnical assessments to evaluate the road’s structural integrity, identify areas requiring strengthening, and develop a comprehensive repair strategy.
• Repairs are likely to include the use of advanced techniques such as bored piers, shotcrete, and other methods of stabilisation.
• Regrading and resurfacing of sections of the road will address any erosion, degradation, or structural weaknesses.
• Installation of drainage improvements to prevent future damage and ensure the road remains functional in various weather conditions.
• Rectification of cleared areas to restore the environment post-construction, including the removal of any waste materials and the restoration of the road corridor to a state that minimises environmental impact.