THE WHITSUNDAYS Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WCCI) has welcomed the Federal and State Governments’ $9 billion investment to upgrade the Bruce Highway but stresses that more action is needed to ensure safer, more connected regional roads.
“Enough is enough—it’s time to fix this road,” stated Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, in the joint announcement.
The Whitsundays Chamber echoes this call, urging all levels of government to accelerate road infrastructure improvements for the safety and prosperity of local businesses and communities.
Road Quality is a Business Imperative
“Road safety and infrastructure quality have been long-standing concerns that demand urgent attention,” Whitsundays Chamber President Allan Milostic said.
“Reliable roads ensure safe workforce movement and efficient supply chains. In some areas, road conditions are so poor that only a donkey could safely navigate them!”
According to the Greater Whitsunday Alliance, failure to act will cost the region:
- $1.4 billion in lost Gross Regional Product
- $126.1 million in lost household wages
- 2,146 full-time jobs over the next decade (Greater Possibilities for Greater Whitsunday and Queensland report, 2024, p.5).
Weather, Road Closures & Economic Impact
Recent weather events have worsened conditions on the Bruce Highway, Hamilton Plains, and Shute Harbour Road, leading to:
- Workforce disruptions – Employees unable to reach work, affecting business operations and revenue.
- Delivery delays – Flooding and roadblocks disrupting supply chains, forcing some delivery companies to abandon door-to-door service.
- Material damages – Poor road conditions causing vehicle damage, stock losses, and increased costs.
- Tourism setbacks – The Whitsundays’ reputation as a world-class destination is undermined by neglected roads and poor infrastructure.
The Chamber Demands Action
The Whitsundays Chamber calls for:
- Critical road infrastructure upgrades to reduce disruptions and support regional growth.
- A long-term strategy for the Bruce Highway between Mackay and Townsville.
- A feasibility study for a loop road connecting Airlie Beach to the Bruce Highway.
It’s time for action. Our roads are vital for business, tourism and the Whitsundays’ future prosperity.
The chamber will continue advocating until real progress is made.
Contributed by the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WCCI).
