THE Hamilton Highway has finally reopened to traffic after a series of massive blasts on a property west of Derrinallum three weeks ago.
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Victoria Police made the decision to open the road from 4pm yesterday after a comprehensive safety assessment.
Owner Glenn Sanders triggered the explosions in the early hours of April 11, injuring two policemen and killing himself.
Explosives experts from the police bomb squad, Australian Federal Police and the army were called in to clear the property in what became the largest operation of its kind in Australia.
Acting Superintendent Paul Ross said the investigation and rehabilitation of the site was ongoing.
A 40km/h speed restriction is in place at the front of the property to ensure the safety of workers.
“The property will remain secure under police guard.”
Police are discouraging drivers from stopping in the area for sightseeing purposes, saying it may disrupt traffic flow. Acting Superintendent Ross thanked the community for its patience over the past three weeks.
“We know that this has been a frustrating time for residents and we appreciate their support during what has been a long and painstaking operation,” he said.
The announcement is good news for businesses in Derrinallum, Lismore and Mortlake which rely on passing traffic for much of their trade.
Mount Elephant will be open to the public from noon to 4pm tomorrow. The gates have remained closed for the past three weeks because of the roadblocks.