Queensland motorists urged to avoid travel

Monday, January 10, 2011

Minister for Main Roads
The Honourable Craig Wallace

Main Roads Minister Craig Wallace has pleaded with motorists to avoid all non-essential travel around Toowoomba, Lockyer and Ipswich.

Mr Wallace said there were likely to be ongoing closures in the region due to flooding.

"But even if roads are open we want to keep them clear for police, emergency service vehicles, road repair crews and people who may need to evacuate," Mr Wallace said.

"If you don't have to travel in these areas, just don't.

"I can't make it any clearer - if you don't have a good reason to be out on the roads, just don't go.

"New flood records are being registered right across the state, evacuations may be needed and we need roads clear.

"This is a tragic day for the Toowoomba and Lockyer regions and for Queensland.

"Our focus tonight and tomorrow will remain on response and recovery and I'd ask Queenslanders to help out by staying off the roads in these areas unless you must travel.

"Mr Wallace said the Warrego Highway westbound from Brisbane Valley Highway to the Toowoomba range is closed until tomorrow morning at the earliest in response to the flooding that is occurring across the region.

The road is being closed to ensure the safety of all motorists.

“The department is continually monitoring the Warrego Highway as rainfall increases and flood waters rise.

“We have made the decision to close the highway so we can go out inspect and assess the impacts of the rain on the condition of the highway. Motorists will then be advised of the likely future opening of the highway."

Mr Wallace urged motorists to pay special attention to road closure signage and reduced speed limits across the state.

"We continue to urge motorists not to drive on or try to cross closed or flooded roads, bridges and causeways,” he said.

”Mr Wallace said it was impossible to stop the damage caused by flooding, but drivers could help reduce the damage by not driving across vulnerable stretches of road.

Drivers are urged to listen to weather updates and road reports on local radio.

For the very latest road closures across Queensland please visit www.131940.qld.gov.au.

Residents concerned about potential impacts to their property are urged to prepare for possible evacuation and monitor the situation by visiting the Bureau of Meteorology website (www.bom.gov.au) or listening to ABC Radio 612 for regular updates

ENDS

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