Major infrastructure projects progressing across Ararat Rural City
Ararat Rural City Council is progressing a suite of major infrastructure projects across the municipality, with works advancing on key road, bridge, recreation, and open space upgrades.
On Mt William Road, crews have moved into the final 1.6 kilometres of stabilising works, marking the last significant construction phase on this important rural link. Final construction and sealing are scheduled to follow, subject to favourable conditions and contractor availability, providing a smoother and safer journey for residents, farmers, and freight operators.
Bridge projects on Buangor‑Ben Nevis Road and McCrows Road are also moving ahead. The first Buangor‑Ben Nevis Road bridge, over Mount Cole Creek, is now complete, with only re‑seeding works remaining to finish the site.
A smaller strengthening project on the bridge at the Buangor end of the construction site - over the Billy Billy Creek - is progressing well, with crews expected to pour the abutment overlays this week to extend the bridge’s service life and improve resilience. At McCrows Road, precast panels are now in place, with road reconstruction on either side of the structure to commence as weather allows, likely from next week.
Significant progress has also been made on community recreation facilities. Building works at the Pony Club arena are complete, and teams are now focused on commissioning fire services systems, installing the arena sand and fencing, and undertaking power supply improvements at the pole to support future use.
At the new dog park, the crew have commenced irrigation works, which will support healthy turf establishment and improve amenity for dog owners and their pets once the space opens.
Ararat Rural City Council CEO, Dr Tim Harrison, said the works program reflected Council’s ongoing focus on delivering practical projects that respond to local priorities. “These projects are about making day‑to‑day life easier and safer for people who live, work, and do business in our municipality,” Dr Harrison said. “Better roads and bridges help our farmers get their product to market, support local jobs in construction, and give families confidence when they travel.”
“We are also investing in the places where people come together because strong community facilities, like the dog park and Pony Club arena, are the backbone of a healthy, connected region,” he said. “I want to thank residents for their patience while works are underway, and I encourage everyone to keep an eye on Council’s web and social channels for updates as these projects move towards completion.”
