Patience appreciated

Transport Minister John Mickel has praised motorists stranded by flood waters at road blocks in central Queensland for their patience, and declared the roads would be re-opened as soon as they were safe to use.

Queensland Transport inspectors continue to guard road blocks around the clock and enforce temporary load limits on roads in central Queensland.

"Understandably, many people are anxious to get across flooded areas to get back to their families or to get access to their livestock and properties," Mr Mickel said.

"However, for their own safety – and the safety of emergency staff who would have to rescue them – inspectors cannot allow them to pass until engineers are able to assess the damage to affected roads and give the all clear.

"Truck drivers and freight companies affected by the temporary load limits imposed by the Department of Main Roads should understand these limits are for their safety as well as those of other road users.

"Road closures are frustrating for people who are thereby stranded but I ask them to continue to be patient," he said.

"The road blocks will be removed as soon as it is safe to do so."

Media contact: Chris Brown (07) 3237 1944 or Shannon Mackay 3237 1125

February 4, 2008