All the way with Segway

In an Australian first, the Newman Government will allow the use of Segways on footpaths and bikeways from later this year.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said it made sense to allow the use of Segways given how popular they were around the rest of the world.

“Queensland will be the first state or territory in Australia to allow the public to use Segways on road-related areas such as footpaths, and users will have to wear an approved helmet,” Mr Emerson said.

“Opening up the use of Segways will provide additional opportunities for tourism operators to hire the vehicle out as a mode of transport around popular tourist locations and attractions.

“Segways are two-wheeled, self-balancing vehicles and currently in Queensland, their use is limited to private property only.

“Currently some tourist operators in Queensland use a Segway for guided tours however our changes will mean anyone at any time is able to use a Segway on footpaths and bikeways."

Queensland Tourism Industry Council CEO Daniel Gschwind welcomed the announcement as a boost for the state’s tourism.

“Opening up the use of Segways will provide additional opportunities for tourism operators to hire the vehicle out as a mode of transport around popular tourist locations and attractions," Mr Gschwind said.

Mr Emerson said this was another way the government was looking to innovative opportunities to encourage people to travel to Queensland.

“This mode of travel is an environmentally-friendly way to travel given it produces zero emissions," he said.

Changes to the regulations will be introduced in the second half of 2013.

[ENDS] 23 April 2013

Media Contact: Stephanie Shield 0418 186 625