With the Queensland state election looming, the Greater Whitsunday region is highlighting the urgent need for road safety upgrades. Local leaders are calling for a major investment in infrastructure to ensure that the region’s key industries, including mining and agriculture, can continue to thrive.

Road closures, often caused by severe weather and accidents, are costing the region millions of dollars in lost revenue each year. According to the Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3), road closures are having a profound effect on the region’s economic output, which totals $74.4 billion annually.

GW3 CEO Kylie Porter has been vocal in her calls for immediate action and last month the Miles Government announced a $157 million investment in the Isaac region’s roads, funded by progressive coal royalties, to enhance safety and supply chain efficiency.

“The $157 million commitment is welcomed, but we are still waiting for similar commitments for Mackay and Whitsunday, both key mining communities that also deserve their share of progressive coal royalties,” Kylie said.

“The Greater Whitsunday region’s roads are the arteries of our economy. When they’re closed due to accidents or weather, the entire region suffers.

“Our roads are not just pathways; they are the lifelines of our economy and community safety.

“Without serious investment in road safety and infrastructure, this problem will only escalate. The economic impact could exceed $1.4 billion over the next ten years.”

In addition to the economic costs, road closures are having a detrimental effect on safety. The region’s busiest roads, the Bruce and Peak Downs Highways, are heavily used by both light and heavy vehicles, including wide loads, making them particularly prone to accidents.

The Road Accident Action Group (RAAG) is also calling for greater attention to road safety in the region.

In 2023 alone, there were 21 fatal crashes, 545 injury crashes, and 291 non-injury crashes across the Greater Whitsunday region.

RAAG Chair Rod Erwin stressed that while some improvements have been made, they have not kept pace with the growing demands placed on the road network.

“Our highways are vital for both industry and daily commutes, but they’re not keeping up with the increasing levels of traffic,” Rod said.

“We need immediate upgrades and enhanced safety measures to address the growing risks on our roads.”

For the region’s powerhouse industries, mining and agriculture, the effects of road closures are particularly damaging. Queensland Farmers’ Federation CEO Jo Sheppard highlighted the challenges faced by rural communities when roads are inaccessible.

“Our roads are critical for the supply chains of agriculture and mining, as well as for the liveability of rural communities,” Jo said.

“Without long-term investment, the region’s economic viability will continue to be compromised.”

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins pointed out that flooding regularly cuts off major tourism routes, including the roads leading to Whitsunday Coast Airport.

“Every time a major flooding event occurs, our region is essentially isolated, and this has a huge impact on our tourism and agriculture sectors.”

With the state election set for October 26, GW3, RAAG, and local councils are urging candidates to commit to investing in road infrastructure for the Greater Whitsunday region.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea stressed the importance of securing bipartisan support for road improvements.

“Our roads support billions in economic output for the state. If we don’t invest now, we risk losing that productivity, and our community suffers.”

More than $700 million has already been committed to over 20 road projects across the region, but local leaders are calling for these projects to be delivered on time, with additional funds allocated for future developments.

“This election is our chance to make meaningful progress,” said Kylie.

“We need our leaders to understand that investing in roads is not just about transportation – it’s about securing the future of our industries and ensuring the safety of our communities.”

Key Facts: • The Greater Whitsunday region contributes $74.4 billion annually to the Queensland economy. • Road closures cost the region $287 million in lost revenue and 215 jobs annually. • More than 71.8 road closures occur each year due to severe weather and road accidents. • 20+ road projects worth $700 million are planned, but more investment and timely delivery are critical.