Good to go! Goondiwindi Region e-gates back from today

The Queensland Police Service has advised that most of the e-gate border crossings in the Goondiwindi Region are once again in operation from today.

The Bonshaw Weir, Cunningham Weir, Riverton (Hynes bridge) and Talwood-Boonanga Road e-gate crossings are now up and running again for approved users.

The Yelarbon (Keetah bridge) crossing is expected to become operational in the coming days, once the state government’s Department of Transport and Main Roads has conducted an inspection of the bridge after earlier flooding.

Keep an eye on the Goondiwindi Regional Council Facebook page, where any updates about the Yelarbon crossing will be announced: www.facebook.com/grcqld

Mayor of the Goondiwindi Region the Honourable Cr Lawrence Springborg AM said it was great news for local residents, especially those in the midst of harvest.

“I’m pleased to say that many residents were on the ball and got their applications in to QPS early this week, with several of those already approved and ready to go,” he said.

“The Bluetooth e-gates significantly reduce the impact of border restrictions on those residents who would otherwise have to drive hundreds of kilometres to a manned police checkpoint, so Council is extremely proud to have been able to work with local police to secure this solution for our community.”

Eligible residents who wish to access the e-gates should plan ahead, as the QPS approval process is likely to take 3-5 business days.

Application forms are available on Council’s website and include a self-assessment checklist to help people ensure they have all the paperwork required: https://www.grc.qld.gov.au/downloads/file/2360/e-gate-border-crossing-application-form

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.

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

For further information about the border restricted zone and a list of comprehensive FAQs, visit Queensland Health website: https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19/current-status/public-health-directions/travelling-to-queensland