The Allan Labor Government has misled the East Gippsland community after admitting no geotechnical inspection was undertaken on a section of Paynesville Road where serious surface failures have earned it the nickname “the Paynesville rollercoaster” - despite previously claiming on two occasions that works had been completed.

Gippsland East Nationals MP, Tim Bull, said he first raised the issue in 2023, seeking answers on the cause of subsurface movement and surface cracking.

“The Minister responded to my representations on three occasions, twice stating geotechnical inspections had been undertaken to ascertain the underlying causes of the road’s undulation,” Mr Bull said.

“However, after a period of silence and no action, I was astounded to be advised that a geotechnical inspection has not yet been undertaken at this location.”

Mr Bull said the Minister’s latest correspondence confirmed an investigation had only been conducted at a different site.

“Incredibly, the Minister stated a geotechnical investigation was completed in May 2024 closer to the Mitchell River bridge, but it did not extend to the section currently experiencing pavement subsidence,” he said.

“In essence, the Government knew there was a problem where warning signs were installed but chose to conduct testing 200 metres away - not where the issue actually exists.

“This stretch of road, just out of Bairnsdale, has long been subject to reduced speed limits and hazard signage due to severe undulation. Failing to investigate the affected area defies common sense.”

Mr Bull said the latest advice indicated investigations would now occur, with repair works to follow.

“It appears this issue will drag into a third year, but hopefully this time the testing is done in the right location,” he said.

“This would be laughable if it wasn’t so serious.”

Monday, 30 March 2026