Award-winning ‘e-gates’ set to return to Goondiwindi Region

Goondiwindi Regional Council is pleased to confirm that the region’s award-winning ‘e-gate’ crossings are set to get up and running once again later this week.

Council is encouraging all eligible residents to get their applications in NOW ready for some gates to become operational from as early as this week: https://www.grc.qld.gov.au/downloads/file/2360/e-gate-border-crossing-application-form

The approval process is likely to take 3-5 business days, so applicants are advised to plan ahead.

The Riverton (Hynes bridge) and Talwood-Boonanga Road crossings are expected to open later this week.

Opening dates for the Bonshaw Weir, Cunningham Weir and Yelarbon (Keetah bridge) crossings will be dependent upon waters subsiding following recent rain and river rises, and subject to debris clearance and bridge inspections by the Department of Transport and Main Roads.

The rules for entry via e-gates will be the same as entry into Queensland via a manned police checkpoint. Applicants must have a valid approved border pass and meet all the conditions of that pass (e.g. evidence of vaccination status or negative COVID-19 test). These conditions will vary depending on the type of pass required and whether entry is from a restricted or non-restricted LGA, etc.

The e-gate application will include a self-assessment checklist to help people ensure they have all the required evidence for efficient processing of their application.

Applicants must also show a demonstrable need to use the nominated e-gate (e.g. distance from manned checkpoint).

Mayor of the Goondiwindi Region the Honourable Cr Lawrence Springborg AM said he was delighted to announce the e-gates will finally be operational once again.

“I think many of us have been waiting for this day,” he said.

“Over the last month I’ve been in contact with local stakeholders and have been working on and advocating for the reopening with senior Queensland Police personnel.  Our e-gates significantly reduce the impact of border restrictions on local people and I hope their operation can continue for as long as they are required.”

The announcement comes just weeks after Council won the highly sought-after Butch Lenton Bush Council Innovation Award for its ‘clever but simple solution’ of using Bluetooth technology in the e-gates.

“This is a prestigious local government award, which we were extremely proud to receive,” Cr Springborg said.

“As I stated last Friday, I am also continuing to advocate for the extension of certain freedoms to double-vaccinated New South Wales border residents in the Moree Plains LGA, who I believe should be able to cross into their local Queensland community for school, work, shopping and volunteering.”

For further information about the border restricted zone and a list of comprehensive FAQs, visit Queensland Health website - Travelling to Queensland | Health and wellbeing | Queensland Government (www.qld.gov.au).