THE State Government’s Safer Roads Sooner project on Tamborine Mountain Road is coming to an end, but has it improved the safety of one of the main routes on and off the mountain?
The project, between Brahman Road and Cedar Creek Falls Road, includes guardrail and rub rail installation, minor road widening, asphalt, line marking and new signage.
It has done little to address the significant dips and narrowness in some of the more dangerous areas of the road, and with large trucks regularly using the road it can be tricky to navigate.
Captain of Tamborine Mountain Fire and Rescue James Croak has been working on the mountain since 2011 and driven a range of trucks up and the down the road.
He has attended many accidents on the road, including three major incidents involving cars and trucks.
“People have to be aware of the situation. Truck drivers should be aware of the surroundings and understand their trucks and abilities, the same as car drivers, James said.
“Drivers need to understand trucks need more room to get around.
“If there is a large truck or semi-trailer and it’s safe to do so, move over to give the truck more room, slow down and if safe you may stop. Otherwise drive slowly and both vehicles can pass safely.”
James said many drivers only focus on what is in front of them, rather than looking well ahead, which would allow them time to react accordingly.
The Department of Main Roads and Transport (TMR) said the road is a general access road for vehicles up to 19 metres and a controlled access road up to 14.5m for buses only.
“All heavy vehicles that meet the specified mass and dimensions for a general access road are permitted to use that road and it is TMR’s expectation that heavy vehicle operators will do so with due care for the road conditions,” a TMR spokesperson said.
The spokesperson said alternative routes to Tamborine Mountain Road, including Tamborine-Oxenford Road, are not supported as the main heavy vehicle route to the mountain as they would require heavy vehicles to be directed along Gallery Walk.
Member for Scenic Rim, Jon Krause said he’s constantly making representations in response to community concerns and requests regarding the condition of the state- controlled roads in the region.
“In relation to Tamborine Mountain Road, from time-to-time residents have raised concerns with me about trucks on this road,” Mr Krause said.
“While trucks are essential to deliver supplies to the community, I have taken these concerns up with the Department on numerous occasions.”
