Safety works on the Yamba heavy vehicle rest area are continuing to ultimately reduce heavy vehicle crashes involving driver fatigue.
Federal Minister Infrastructure and Transport Anthony Albanese said the project is part of the brand new Quarantine Station which opens this week, strengthening protection of South Australia’s lucrative citrus industry.
“The completion of this new building means the existing quarantine facility can be demolished and new truck rest area facilities and a weigh bridge can be completed,” Mr Albanese said.
“The combination of Quarantine Station, rest area and weigh-station is a triple win for the region.
“This $6.3 million project is funded through the $5.3 million from the Gillard Labor Government’s Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program, and $1 million from the State Government’s State Rest Areas Program.”
Mr Conlon said when completed the new truck rest area will provide a welcome rest stop for heavy vehicles entering the state, as well as addressing driver fatigue and creating safer roads.
“Once the old station has been demolished it will make way for the combined heavy vehicle rest area and weigh-bridge at the Yamba site,” Mr Conlon said.
“This ‘one-stop-shop’ is a major safety initiative in addressing fatigue issues and ensuring truck loading and operational safety, as well as protecting South Australia from produce-attacking pests that South Australia remains free from.
“The heavy vehicle rest area and weigh-bridge facilities are expected to be fully functional in early 2012.
“The South Australian Government thanks motorists for their patience while these important works are undertaken.”
The Australian Government’s Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program is delivering 17 projects, either new or upgraded rest areas, across South Australia.