Police said the road, which is a main route for northerners heading to and from south-east Queensland, will be closed for “an indefinite period” – but it is expected to reopen on Saturday.

A 300-tonne boulder crashed onto the road on Tuesday, blocking both lanes.

Crews are working to remove the boulder and debris, and will assess the damage done as the boulder caused a massive crack in the road surface.

Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes or delay their travel until the road is cleared and repaired.