Truck drivers who use the Flinders and Landsborough highways will soon have more opportunities to rest and recuperate during long drives, with construction already underway on one of three new rest areas.

Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister Anthony Albanese said the new rest areas were funded from the first round of the Rudd Labor Government’s $70 million Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program.

“Since being elected, we have worked with the trucking industry, as well as state and territory governments, to begin addressing the lack of safe, modern facilities along the nation’s highways,” said Mr Albanese.

“The construction of these new facilities – projects that will support 18 jobs – demonstrates our determination to help make sure truck drivers, as well as other road users, arrive at their destinations safely.”

Every year more than 200 people are killed in road crashes involving heavy vehicles – up to 20 per cent of all road deaths.

Queensland Main Roads Minister Craig Wallace said the new rest areas would be located on the Flinders Highway at Hughenden and along the Landsborough Highway at McKinlay and Fullarton River – see attached map.

“The three new sites were selected following extensive research into known fatigue zones on the road network and spacing between existing heavy vehicle rest area facilities,” Mr Wallace said.

“The rest areas will feature enough parking spaces for a minimum of six long-haul heavy vehicles. The Fullarton River site will also include two fully sheltered picnic tables and chairs, toilet facilities and solar-powered lighting, providing additional convenience for long-haul drivers.

“Work at the Fullarton River site has already commenced, with works progressing well. Construction on the Hughenden site will start mid-April and will also feature a sheltered picnic table and chairs for the convenience of drivers.

“The McKinlay rest area is the third project to be constructed, with work starting in mid-May.”

Each of the rest areas will take about three months to build, weather permitting.