Positive steps have been made towards improving the safety of a notorious intersection in the Burdekin, however Member for Burdekin Dale Last has emphasised that everyone has a role to play when it comes to safety on our roads.

After extensive community consultation Mr Last said proactive measures and tackling the matter from all angles would provide the missing pieces needed to pave a pathway towards a solution for concerns faced at the Giddy Road- Bruce Highway intersection.

“An increase in traffic over recent years has seen the Giddy Road- Bruce Highway intersection become notoriously dangerous with drivers often witnessing near-misses or at times having to be first responders to traffic accidents,” Mr Last said.

“The installation of a traffic monitoring system at the intersection is a positive step towards securing information and data necessary to advocate for upgrades.

“Every time we witness a near-miss incident on our roads we are reminded of the potential dangers and the loss of life that could have occurred. By taking proactive steps in addressing road safety concerns we are ensuring we're not waiting until a family is mourning the loss of a loved one before we take action.”

Mr Last said the complex nature of the Giddy Road intersection meant all areas of government and the community needed to play their part in ensuring the safety of all road users.

“As part of the proactive measures, I have also applied for the intersection to be considered for funding under the next round of the Federal Government’s Black Spot program,” Mr Last said.

“Anyone can nominate a road or intersection to be considered for Black Spot funding and, if the project meets the criteria and is selected by the panel, infrastructure upgrades can be committed to.”

“As a former police officer I know first-hand the wide-spread impact fatal accidents have on communities, from the first responders at the scenes to the families and friends left behind. By taking these actions it means that we're not left waiting for a fatality to occur before we see real action and investment on our roads.”