MEDIA RELEASE The Hon Anthony Albanese MP Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government 19 June 2009 AA311/2009 Joint Media release issued by Chris Trevor, Federal Member for Flynn and Craig Wallace, QLD Minister for Main Roads

PLANNING STARTS ON UPGRADE OF THE BRUCE HIGHWAY AT GIN GIN Planning has started on the upgrade of the southern approach of the Bruce Highway in Gin Gin, Queensland Main Roads Minister, Craig Wallace, and Federal Member for Flynn, Chris Trevor announced today. Mr Wallace encouraged local residents to get involved with the public display to offer their feedback on the future project which will improve safety on the southern approach to their town. "It is a high priority to ensure we cause the least impact possible to the community as a whole," Mr Wallace said. "As we work through the planning stage, the project team officers will be working with the community to identify and resolve issues so that the right decisions are made for the future upgrade of this busy section of highway. "As part of the community engagement activities, the department will meet with the Gin Gin Historical Society, local business operators, Bundaberg Regional Council, local residents and property owners to discuss the preferred option and seek their input. "I encourage everyone to have their say so that the best outcome is achieved for the whole community," he said. Federal Member for Flynn, Chris Trevor, said he was pleased to see planning begin and urged local residents to become involved in the design proposals. "Gin Gin is an important road transport 'hub' and a key route for freight vehicles, linking the north and south of Queensland," Mr Trevor said. "We need to make sure we get this upgrade right, for the safety of both local Gin Gin residents and the many travellers that pass through it. "Workers will be in the area soon to gather necessary site information and to conduct land surveys.  This information is essential to ensure that all options are thoroughly investigated. "The Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads expect to have designs ready by the end of this year and the community will be invited to attend a public display," he said. The Federal Government has committed $20 million to this project under the Nation Building Program. Media Contacts ( Mr Wallace's office ) 07 3896 3691 ( Mr Trevor's office ) 0427 737 203   URL: http://www.minister.infrastructure.gov.au/aa/releases/2009/June/aa311_2009.htm