Take extra care on Queensland roads

With wild weather on the way, school wrapping up for the year and the busy Christmas and New Year period in full swing, motorists should take extra care on Queensland roads.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said roads were expected to be busier than usual as Queenslanders prepared to travel for the holidays and celebrate Christmas with family and friends.

“If I can ask for one thing for Christmas, it is that all Queenslanders stay safe on our roads,” Mr Bailey said.

‘‘Give the best possible gift this season – yourself – by buckling up and driving safely.

‘‘We know the Christmas school holiday period traditionally generates increased traffic volumes on Queensland roads.

‘‘And with extreme weather bearing down on parts of the state, drivers should allow extra travel time and drive to conditions.

‘‘When planning travel, motorists should also keep in mind that due to the severe weather Driver Reviver sites will be reduced on Friday and into the weekend with Waverly Creek and Frances Creek sites currently closed.’’

Mr Bailey said motorists who couldn’t delay their travel should not drive into flooded waters or on closed roads.

‘‘Always remember, if it’s flooded forget it, check qldtraffic.qld.gov.au and stay tuned to your local radio station for road closure and flooding updates,’’ he said.

‘‘I’d also like to urge motorists travelling through the Eungella Range to take extra caution following damage caused by cyclone Debbie and recent fires.

‘‘The condition of the range will be closely monitored in the coming days and road closures may be implemented if required.

Any closures will be relayed to the public via VMS and other communication channels.’’

Mr Bailey said Queenslanders would be kept up to date with roads impacted by severe weather but stressed that waters would need to recede before they are inspected for damage.  

‘‘As soon as it is safe to do so, emergency and TMR staff will work around the clock to reopen roads and highways as quickly as possible,’’ he said.

‘‘We appreciate the patience of all motorists during what will be an extremely busy time on our roads.’’

Mr Bailey said severe weather would also impact public transport.

‘‘Customers are encouraged to check operator’s websites for updates on travel arrangements,’’ he said.

‘‘Residents in Cairns, Mackay, Toowoomba, and South East Queensland travelling by bus should plan their travel via translink.com.au, or phone the 24/7 contact centre on 13 12 30.

‘‘Long-distance coach customers should check with the local operator or booking agent while ferry and air customers should check with the local operator and long-distance rail customers should visit queenslandrailtravel.com.au or phone 1300 131 722.’’

Traffic and road restriction signs are enforceable by law and motorists must comply with these signs. It is every motorist’s responsibility to ensure they obey all traffic and road signs to ensure the safety of themselves and others.

For up-to-date traffic and travel information, phone 131 940 or visit qldtraffic.qld.gov.au and for the latest transport advice visit www.translink.com.au  

Queenslanders should also keep up to date with the latest weather warnings at www.bom.gov.au  

For further information on road safety visit streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au  

ENDS

Media contact: Toby Walker – 0439 347 875