Applications open Thursday for additional border crossings trial

Goondiwindi Regional Council and the Queensland Police Service (QPS) will accept applications from Thursday 23 April 2020 for the trial that will allow border residents access, via unmanned Queensland border crossings in the region. 

The unmanned crossings will be accessible strictly to approved residents with a genuine need only. All other traffic must continue to enter the region via the manned police checkpoints.

Entry through the locked gates at the unmanned crossings will be granted via a phone app, which only approved applicants with security codes will be able to open.

In addition to the police checkpoints in Goondiwindi and Texas, approved residents will be eligible to enter the region through one of the below access points:

• Talwood Boonanga Road Crossing
• Yelarbon Keetah Road Crossing
• Cunningham Weir Road Crossing
• Riverton Road Hynes Bridge Crossing

The Honourable Lawrence Springborg, Mayor of the Goondiwindi region, said the trial was intended only for those who have been significantly impacted by the border closures.

“The closure of the Queensland border means that some of our residents are having to travel hundreds of kilometres to access services or carry out essential work,” Cr Springborg said.

“I’m very impressed with how quickly both Council and the QPS have worked together to find a solution for our community in this matter and I’m proud to be part of a region that is always looking to solve problems, especially through innovative uses of technology.”

However, the Mayor also emphasised the provisional nature of the trial.

“This is only a trial and it requires people to do the right thing,” Cr Springborg said.

“The health and safety of our residents is our primary concern and any individual who abuses the new system will not only ruin it for all those doing the right thing, but also expose our community to an increased risk of COVID-19.

Applicants need to be aware that it may take several days for applications to be processed, as it is essential the QPS verify the genuine need of each applicant.

• To apply, contact Council on 07 4671 7400 or download an application from Council’s website- https://www.grc.qld.gov.au/residents/council-forms/forms.  The QPS will assess each application to confirm that genuine need exists.
• Applicants will need a current Queensland Entry Pass and a copy of their driver’s licence; additional supporting documentation may be required to demonstrate genuine need. Approval will be granted for one access point only per applicant.