Queensland citizens draws to the attention of the House that the lack of designated overtaking lanes on Peak Downs Highway west of Nebo is a safety concern. If studied correctly, I believe it would become evident that the Peak Downs Highway would be recognised as a highly important route in regards to Queensland’s economy due to the fact it is a primary route for a densely populated mining industry. Therefore, it must be a consideration that the Queensland Government increase the amount of designated overtaking lanes, particularly west of Nebo to:

• reduce traffic congestion caused by heavy vehicles and constant wide loads;

• allow travellers to overtake safely in all weather conditions;

• improve overall safety of an important economic route; and

• significantly decrease the likelihood of fatalities due to highway accidents.

The current two-lane road design is impractical due to the constant hills/slopes and long winding bends with dense bushland surrounding which impairs vision during ideal driving conditions, let alone late afternoon or extremely early morning hours this road is frequented. 

Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to do all within its power to increase safe over-taking lanes to Peak Downs Highway Queensland – an important economic route for Queensland.