Thursday, October 10, 2024

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Bruce Highway Left In Limbo By Major Parties

The Mackay and Whitsunday regions are facing uncertainty as they await road infrastructure commitments from both major parties ahead of the Queensland Government election on October 26.

While the Labor Government announced it will invest $157M, funded by progressive coal royalties, for critical improvements to Isaac region roads to enhance safety and supply chain efficiency, Mackay and Whitsunday regions have received only one commitment for their key state-controlled road projects.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the $157M commitment from the Labor Government for Isaac was welcomed, however noted the LNP was yet to extend a similar commitment.

The LNP announced a $20 Million proposal for upgrades to the Mackay Bucasia Road and Golf Links Road intersection, however neither major party have announced any funding for the Dawson or Capricornia sections of the Bruce Highway.

“The entire Greater Whitsunday region makes an oversized contribution to the Queensland economy, with a total economic output of $74.4B annually,” said Ms Porter.

“Like the Isaac region, both Mackay and Whitsunday have a long list of road projects that require investment now to not only improve safety and connectivity outcomes across the region, but also promote economic prosperity.

“We are calling on all candidates to clearly articulate their commitment to funding road projects across the entire Greater Whitsunday region in the next term of government.”

Ms Porter said that both Whitsunday and Mackay are key mining communities and also deserve their share of progressive coal royalties to fund key road and other infrastructure projects.

“The Whitsunday region is an important mining community in its own right, while Mackay is the key service sector location for the entire Bowen Basin region,” said Ms Porter.

“The Greater Whitsunday region deserves its fair share of election commitments and funding announcements in anticipation of a new government. It is vitally important to invest in the Greater Whitsunday region to protect Queensland’s long term economic prosperity.”

The Greater Possibilities for Greater Whitsunday and Queensland election priorities document outlines strategic initiatives and investment commitments needed for the Greater Whitsunday region.

GW3 Chief Executive Officer Kylie Porter, Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins and Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson are advocating for commitment from state election parties to fix the shocking condition of the region’s Bruce Highway. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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