New rest stop facilities in south west for truck drivers

Heavy vehicle drivers are set to benefit from the installation of nine new toilet facilities in key rest areas across Queensland's south west.

Main Roads Minister Warren Pitt said the toilets were being installed to help encourage drivers to stop, rest and reduce fatigue, while improving their comfort along key freight routes.

"I am pleased Main Roads is able to provide new and more comfortable facilities to heavy vehicle drivers in the region," Mr Pitt said.

"The eco-friendly unisex toilets feature solar lighting, water tanks, hand basins and are also self-composting.

"These toilets are designed to be low maintenance, easy to clean, and run on solar power for lighting and ventilation requirements which help support the Bligh Government's commitment to sustainability.“

Minister Assisting the Premier in Western Queensland Kerry Shine said the facilities would be located at key rest areas in the south west which were major stopping places for drivers travelling through the region and interstate.

“The first three toilets will be installed in Roma Regional Council rest areas with the remaining six facilities to be installed progressively early next year,” Mr Shine said.

The toilets will be installed in the following locations:

·Carnarvon Highway (Roma to Surat) — 47 kilometres south of Roma

·Carnarvon Highway (Roma to Injune) — 46 kilometres north of Roma

·Warrego Highway (Mitchell to Morven) — 3.8 kilometres west of Mitchell

·Warrego Highway (Charleville to Morven) — 47 kilometres west of Morven

·Landsborough Highway (Morven to Augathella) — 40 kilometres north of Morven

·Landsborough Highway (Augathella to Tambo) — 36 kilometres north of Augathella

·Balonne Highway (Bollon to Cunnamulla) — 66 kilometres east of Cunnamulla

·Bulloo Developmental Road (Thargomindah to Bundeena) — 129 kilometres west of Thargomindah

·Diamantina Developmental Road (Charleville to Quilpie) — 160 kilometres west of Charleville

Mr Shine said Main Roads completed the $800,000 upgrade and installation of eight rest areas along the Carnarvon Highways earlier this year.

For more information, contact Main Roads South West Region on 4622 9511.

Media contact: Minister Pitt’s office 3227 8819