Thursday, 5 February 2026

 Gaelle BROAD (Northern Victoria) (12:54): My question is for the Minister for Roads and Road Safety to raise concerns from Woodend residents about the Black Forest Drive upgrade. This project was allocated $6 million in the 2021–22 Victorian budget to deliver safety improvements to a 12-kilometre stretch of road between Woodend and Macedon. The works were due to commence in 2023 and scheduled for completion in mid-2024, weather permitting. I recently received a letter that states:

We in Woodend would appreciate it if you could look into the debacle of road works going on; in particular Black Forest Road.

BFR used to be 2 lanes each way and the speed was 90. Perfectly fine and nothing wrong with it.

The community were asked if they’d approve changes. Changes to include single lanes with a bike path on both sides. The community said NO.

Roadworks commenced and went on for a long time. Finally finished with frequent upgrades for the safety of cyclists.

In 2 years have rarely seen a cyclist.

Last week we had the first hot day for years over 30 degrees. BFR buckled and melted with tar coming up and getting stuck on car tyres. Hence most avoided using the road.

Can the minister explain why resident feedback was ignored, how much has been spent on the changes to date and what assessment has been done on the road’s performance?