Be roadtrip-ready

Plan ahead and drive safely.

That’s the message from Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey as families head onto Queensland’s 33,000km of roads these holidays.

Checking out progress on the $400 million Ipswich Motorway upgrade, Minister Bailey urged holidaymakers to be roadtrip-ready by planning for roadworks, rest stops and avoiding the fatal five.

“We want everyone to get to their holiday destinations, and back home safely,” Mr Bailey said.

“We’re building some of the biggest road projects in Queensland’s history.

“And while some roadwork sites will be shutdown over the Christmas break, that doesn’t mean construction speed limits don’t apply.

“With changed traffic conditions, these speed limits are there to keep you, your family and other road users safe.

Mr Bailey said projects underway and to keep mind of when driving these holidays included:

• $104 million Cairns Southern Access upgrade from Kate Street to Aumuller Street
• $514 million Haughton River Floodplain project at Giru, 40km south of Townsville
• $497 million Mackay Ring Road
• $157 million Rockhampton Northern Access Upgrade
• $812 million Bruce Highway upgrade from Caloundra Road to the Sunshine Motorway
• $400 million Ipswich Motorway upgrade from Rocklea to Darra
• $195 million M1/M3 merge upgrade
• $197.5 million M1 upgrade from Mudgeeraba to Varsity Lakes
• $80 million Sumners Road interchange
• Warrego Highway upgrade at the Chinchilla open level crossing

“Sadly, more than 200 lives have been lost on Queensland roads this year.

"Every time you use the roads, give the task your full attention and respect your fellow road users – a little bit of courtesy goes a long way.

"Christmas should be a time to remember. We're asking Queenslanders to make sure it's not for the wrong reasons.”

Simple road safety reminders to keep safe over the holiday break:

• Plan ahead when celebrating and organise your #LiftLegend to help get you home safely.
• Before driving, set your phone to 'Do not disturb' while driving then leave your phone alone.
• Drive to the conditions and give each other space.
• If you're going somewhere new, plan your journey in advance to avoid last-minute lane changes or risky turning manoeuvres.
• When passing a roadside incident, like a broken-down vehicle or emergency services, safely move over and slow down to give the responders space.
• For long trips, allow plenty of time to get to your destination, relax and enjoy the journey.

For more information visit streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au

ENDS

Media contact: Francis Dela Cruz - 0420 592 078