Local, State and Federal MP’s have joined forces for Queensland Road Safety Week urging motorists to drive to survive and work together to keep each other safe.
This years theme is ‘We’re one team Queensland. Let’s drive like it.’
Federal Member for Hinkler David Batt said the message is simple, one life lost is too many.
“I spent 23 years as a police officer, and I saw firsthand the unimaginable impact of road crashes,” Mr Batt said.
“Survivors are often left with lasting injuries and when a life is lost, the tragedy is felt far and wide.
“Sadly, the local road toll in my electorate of Hinkler continues to exceed that of other regions and we all need to step up and play our part to ensure everyone returns home safely to family and friends.
“Thank you to our first responders and the Queensland Government for delivering the Road Safety Week campaign for 2025.”
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said action on safer roads must go hand in hand with safer driving.
“187 lives have been lost on Queensland roads so far this year, with 26 of them being in the Wide Bay Burnett district,” he said. *
“These numbers are devastating.
“This week is about reminding each other that we all have a role to play to keep everyone safe on our roads.
“It’s about taking the time to remember the Fatal Five – speeding, drink and drug driving, failing to wear a seatbelt, driver distraction, and fatigue.
“But it’s also about investing in the road upgrades our community desperately needs.
“After Labor left an $8 million maintenance backlog, we are getting on with the job of delivering major upgrades that will save lives and make our roads safer for everyone.”
Both MPs said Road Safety Week is a reminder that responsibility lies with every road user.
“By tackling the Fatal Five and backing vital infrastructure upgrades, we can make real progress towards safer journeys across the Wide Bay,” they said.
Photo: State Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett with Federal Member for Hinkler David Batt