Safety upgrades are expected to soon begin along one of Queensland’s important freight corridors, that sees up to 15,000 vehicles a day.
Planning is now underway for a series of road upgrades along the notorious 60-kilometre stretch of the Warrego Highway, between Toowoomba and Dalby, an area with a poor crash history.
Delivered under the Targeted Road Safety Program, the project will involve a range of cost-effective, high-impact safety improvements.
These include road widening, flattening road edges, new signage and line marking, removal of some roadside hazards and the installation of dedicated turn lanes at Speed Road near Oakey.
The design was completed in September, with construction to commence in late 2025 and continue into 2026.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said safety upgrades to major regional transport networks are a priority. “Our focus is on making our roads more reliable, efficient and safe to get you home sooner,” he said.
“For too long, regional Queenslanders have been forgotten. We are delivering key safety upgrades to keep our regions moving.
“This project is a critical step toward a safer, more efficient Warrego Highway, one of the key transport corridors in our national network.”
Member for Condamine Pat Weir welcomed the investment, adding, “The Warrego Highway is more than just a road – it’s a freight lifeline for Queensland to the west,” he said.
“From grain and cattle to cotton and machinery, this highway carries the heartbeat of our region.
“Not only that, but we also have locals and travellers on that road every day. These upgrades will make it safer and more efficient for everyone who relies on it.”
As a caravaner who tries to maintain a speed of 100kph, I often feel very sorry for drivers of heavy trucks when cars go flying past, only to discover that there is something that they didn’t see earlier approaching. What do they do? Cut in of course thinking that the truck driver can perform a miracle by not driving over the top of their car! I have had so many close. shaves myself & have seen many others. Car drivers need educating as to their responsibilities on the open roads. Personally, I would prefer to sit behind a truck rather than have it behind me.
With the cheap prices of small portable UHF radios, every car should have one to communicate with fellow road users