Bligh Government asks Queenslanders to bridge the name gap

Queenslanders will get the chance to contribute to the State's 150th birthday celebrations next year by suggesting new names for dozens of key bridges throughout the state, Premier Anna Bligh announced today.

"Turning 150 is special – as is the chance to name public infrastructure as a lasting commemoration of the integral role roads and bridges have played in building Queensland's prosperity," Ms Bligh said.

"Main Roads will choose significant bridges on state-controlled roads and invite local community members to suggest names."

Ms Bligh said the bridge-naming program was a unique opportunity for communities to celebrate what it means to be a Queenslander.

"I encourage people to not only consider historical figures, but people who are making a difference now,” she said.

"Possible names could honour an individual or group who has been integral to a community's success or wellbeing.

"They could be early explorers or pioneers, sports people, civic leaders, successful performers or artists that have a link to the local area.

"The names don't have to relate to people – they could be Indigenous names, relate to local history including events or traditions, be local plants, animals or other significant features such as geographical landmarks. The scope is open," she said.

Main Roads Minister Warren Pitt said the project would kick off in early 2009 with regional departmental offices calling for name submissions on chosen bridges through local media.

He said a decision-making panel including community representatives would recommend a new name based on public submissions.

Mr Pitt said 2009 would be a time for everyone to feel good about being a Queenslander.

"We’ll be 150 years young and proud of it," he said.

"We have come a long way since being declared a state in our own right by Queen Victoria in 1859.

"Queensland has grown into a state of more than four million residents. We lay claim to amazing people doing incredible things in engineering, tourism, the arts, health, research and development, science and innovation, mining and agriculture."

Queensland celebrates 150 years of independence from New South Wales on 10 December 2009.

Mr Pitt said our 150th anniversary year was an opportunity for Queenslanders to take stock, reflect back, think ahead and move forward.

"The Queensland Government’s year-long celebrations (Q150) have been designed to help Queenslanders do just that," he said.

"In 2009 you can expect to see 150th anniversary celebrations around Australia Day, Queensland Day, Queensland Week, Reconciliation Week and Proclamation Day.

"Additionally there are more than 90 legacy infrastructure projects in progress and more than 180 community funding projects and events to commemorate or participate in next year."

For more information on Main Roads Q150 bridge-naming program email Q150bridges@mainroads.qld.gov.au.

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