Gatton–Clifton Road maintenance, Mount Whitestone

Gatton–Clifton Road links the Warrego, New England and Cunningham highways, connecting primary producers and communities in the Lockyer Valley and Darling Downs.

A slow-moving landslide has been identified on the west face of Mount Whitestone. Its movement is causing tension cracks, subsidence, and land surface deformation of the Gatton–Clifton Road. There is also a risk of rocks and debris falling on the road.

Wet weather is associated with increasing movement.

The department is monitoring the landslide, traffic and road conditions in real time.

A traffic camera installed at Mount Whitestone can be publicly accessed via QLDTraffic.

Motorists are asked to be aware that road conditions may change suddenly. Warning signs are installed at key locations on Gatton–Clifton Road and at Mount Whitestone and will be updated automatically to inform motorists about current road conditions according to the following status alerts:

Alert level – ADVICE

A slow moving landslide is affecting Gatton–Clifton Road at Mount Whitstone. This is the current level of alert.

Motorists are advised:

• the landslide may cause road deformation and/or debris to fall on the road
• please observe reduced speeds, drive carefully, and follow traffic signs.

Alert level – WATCH AND ACT

If heavy rainfall is forecast or occurs, there is a moderate increase in the rate of landslide movement and/or there are minor safety hazards or poor road conditions, access to Gatton–Clifton Road at Mount Whitestone may be restricted.

Motorists will be advised:

• the road is open for local access only
• if travelling between Gatton and Clifton, please find an alternative route
• if travelling locally, please observe reduced speeds, drive carefully, and follow traffic signs
• crews are inspecting the area and working to restore trafficability and access for all motorists.

Alert level – EMERGENCY WARNING

If a severe rainfall event is forecast or occurs, there is a significant increase in the rate of landslide movement and/or there are significant safety hazards or unsafe road conditions, Gatton–Clifton Road at Mount Whitestone will be remotely or automatically closed to all traffic.

Motorists will be advised:

• the road is closed due to a landslide
• if travelling between Gatton and Clifton, you must find an alternative route
• TMR is assessing the area to determine if and when safe access may be restored.

In an emergency, please contact 000, or if not an immediate threat to safety, please contact the Statewide Traffic Management Centre on 13 19 40, or visit QLDTraffic.