North Queensland Driver Reviver “highway lifesavers” recognised

North Queensland’s Driver Reviver volunteers have been officially thanked for their efforts to keep drivers alert and alive.

Transport Minister John Mickel in Townsville today presented Certificates of Appreciation to volunteers who staff Driver Reviver sites on the Bruce Highway near Ayr and Ingham.

“These dedicated people selflessly give up their own holidays to help drivers get to and from their destinations safely,” he said.

“The entire community owes driver reviver volunteers throughout the state a great debt of gratitude.

“Every school holiday they are out there – in any weather – helping drivers stop, revive and survive. They offer motorists free tea, coffee, snacks and a friendly chat,” Mr Mickel said.

“Queensland Transport urges drivers to stop and rest at least every two hours, and Driver Reviver sites, staffed with volunteers, are ideal places to take rest breaks.

“We know that fatigue is one of the worst killers on our roads at any time, but sadly it is much worse in holiday times when there are so many people on our roads.

“Our Driver Reviver volunteers are in the vanguard against driver fatigue, and as such they play a vital role in the battle to bring down the road toll.

“There are more than 1600 volunteers staffing 35 Driver Reviver sites in strategic locations throughout Queensland during these school holidays,” he said.

“There is nothing more important when driving than getting safely to your destination. That means driving safely according to the conditions and taking regular rest stops to avoid fatigue.

"It is vital not to drive when you are tired – especially during the school holidays when there are so many families travelling on the roads.

“The upcoming Australia Day long weekend will see big numbers of drivers on the roads, and the tremendous work of our Driver Reviver volunteers will once again be on display.

“The Driver Reviver sites throughout Queensland will continue to be staffed for periods during the school holidays,” Mr Mickel said.

The Driver Reviver program is sponsored nationally by Bushells.

For more information about Driver Reviver sites and operating times, or to volunteer, visit

www.transport.qld.gov.au/Home/Safety/Road/Driver_reviver/

Media contact: 3237 1944