New road train decoupling facility opens in Townsville

Wheels will now turn on Townsville’s new heavy vehicle decoupling facility, as it is open for business.

Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey was in Townsville today and said the project was the first to be completed as part of the Palaszczuk Government’s Accelerated Works Program (AWP).

“We invested $1 million to this important project after consultation with the heavy vehicle industry last year and concerns about safety for heavy vehicle drivers,” Mr Bailey said.

“The Palaszczuk Government then fast-tracked delivery as part our $77.6 million Accelerated Works Program, to boost the local economy and create jobs for North Queensland."

Minister Assisting the Premier on North Australia Coralee O’Rourke said the decoupling facility will help transport companies and heavy vehicle operators manage their loads safely.

“Up to 28 trailers will be able to decouple at the facility, which is beside the compliance interception site on Townsville Port Access Road,” Ms O’Rourke.

“While there are several commercial facilities in Townsville, these are typically used by large transport companies and for longer term trailer storage – so this new pad is providing local industry with the long-term solution they need.”

Member for Thuringowa Aaron Harper said the safety and efficiency outcomes were priceless.

“The facility will reduce the number of truck movements required over a larger distance and it will end the unsafe practice of trucks breaking down by the side of the highway.

“The Palaszczuk Government consulted with local operators and industry representatives, such as Livestock and Rural Transporters Association of Queensland, which highlighted there was a lack of public decoupling facilities for the Flinders Highway near Townsville."

The Townsville decoupling facility was completed on 31 May.

ENDS

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