WILLCOX CALLS OUT ASBESTOS-TAINTED TURBINE INDUSTRY

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, says the Whitsundays is now facing an unprecedented double threat: a proposed wind farm pushed into the heart of rural communities, and growing fears about asbestos contamination that are eroding public trust in government safeguards and environmental protections.

Mr Willcox said residents in Crystal Brook and Kelsey Creek are already living with enormous stress as the Mt Challenger Wind Farm proposal aims to push industrial-scale infrastructure far too close to their homes and farms. Turbines planned less than two kilometres from family bedrooms, backyards and children’s play areas would bring constant noise, shadow flicker, and heavy-vehicle movements on narrow rural roads never designed for hundreds of oversized loads.

“These are small, tight-knit communities that have cared for their land for generations,” Mr
Willcox said.

“They’re not anti-renewables. They’re not activists. They simply expect the same basic protections and planning standards that people in the cities take for granted. Instead, they’re being treated like collateral damage.”

Mr Willcox said the timing of the project also raises serious concerns, given the heightened anxiety across Queensland about asbestos contamination and the government’s failure to control hazardous materials entering supply chains.

“Recent discoveries of asbestos in wind turbine lift brake pads at multiple Australian wind farms, including Clarke Creek in Central Queensland, show that banned hazardous materials are still making their way into critical infrastructure,” he said.

“When people are already questioning whether the government can keep them safe from asbestos turning up in everyday products, it’s no wonder they have zero confidence in a project of this scale being dumped on their doorstep,” he said.

“If the government can’t guarantee safety in what it allows to be imported, how can families trust the safety, quality and environmental impact of hundreds of imported turbine components and thousands of tonnes of materials being brought into the Whitsundays?”

Residents have also raised fears for local wildlife, health risks and the cultural and environmental values of Mt Challenger and the surrounding district; concerns they say have been brushed aside in the push to rush development for political climate target agendas rather than community needs.

Mr Willcox said he will continue to stand with residents every step of the way, ensuring their voices are taken to Canberra, and their concerns are impossible to ignore.

“There is nothing safe, fair or responsible about placing this project in the middle of a rural
community,” he said.

“The location is wrong. The risks are real. The majority of the community is united. And I will not
allow these families to be steamrolled.”

He said regional Australians deserve transparency, proper assessment, real consultation and genuine respect; not to be forced to carry the burden of poor planning and political convenience.

“People in Crystal Brook and Kelsey Creek are telling me clearly: they feel unheard, they feel unprotected, and they feel abandoned,” Mr Willcox said.

“I’m not letting that stand.”

Contributed with thanks to the office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox
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Standing at the peaceful Lake Proserpine, Andrew Willcox says this is exactly what’s at  stake in the Whitsundays; the serenity locals cherish being disrupted by a wind farm proposal placed far too close to homes, farms and families. Photo supplied

Member for Burdekin Dale Last has lambasted a federal announcement which sees farmers left as collateral damage in the latest Labor-Greens deal.

Mr Last said last week’s overreach by the Federal Government will see farmers, already meeting world-leading environmental regulations, strangled with more red tape.

“Once again our farmers are being painted as environmental vandals by Labor, except
this time it’s on a federal level,” Mr Last said.

“The passing of the Commonwealth Environment Protection Reform Bill 2025 last week signals another Labor-induced sledging on an industry that feeds our nation for the sake of inner-city Green votes.”

“Unlike Labor, the LNP have always backed our farmers because we have seen firsthand the effort they put in to ensure they meet best management practices.”

Mr Last said Queenslanders wouldn’t be taken as fools by Labor’s anti-farming agenda which risked jobs and presented economic uncertainty for communities that relied on agriculture.

“I will always stand shoulder to shoulder with primary producers because regional Queensland has had an absolute gutful of being a scapegoat for Labor’s green agendas.”

“The Labor-Greens deal specifically punishes the sectors that underpin Queensland’s economy and strips Queensland of its ability to manage our own future, risking jobs and economic uncertainty across our regions,” Minister Last said.

“The Greens don’t understand agriculture or mining, and Labor is too weak to say no to them - and regional Queenslanders have been left to pay the price."

Contributed with thanks to the office of Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP

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On Friday, 5 December, Burdekin Community Association Inc. celebrated International Volunteer Day with our volunteers.

We enjoyed a Volunteer Brunch at the BCA Support Centre. The refreshments were great, and we had Lucky Door prizes and games. BCA is very grateful to all of our exceptional volunteers and thanks them for everything they do for our organisation and the community.

This year, under the inspiring theme “Every Contribution Matters”, International Volunteer Day 2025 takes on historic significance as it marks the official global launch of the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development (IVY 2026). This milestone follows a UN General Assembly Resolution calling for a worldwide movement to recognise and amplify the vital role of volunteers in accelerating progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

For more information on the Burdekin Community Association, visit the BCA Support Centre, 130 Queen St, Ayr, phone 4783 3744 or email bca@bcaburdekin.org.au.

Contributed with thanks to Debra Cochran
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On Friday the 5th of December Burdekin Community Association Inc celebrated International Volunteer Day with our Volunteers. Photos supplied

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Ayr art lovers are in for a treat as Tracey Jane returns to the region with her much-anticipated exhibition, It’s a Circular Thing. The show will be on display on 16th and 17th December, from 10 am to 4 pm, opposite the old movie theatre on Queen Street.

Originally scheduled for Charters Towers in June at the World Theatre, the exhibition was unfortunately cancelled when a storm damaged the venue’s roof. Now, Tracey Jane brings her work closer to home, offering locals a chance to experience her unique artistic vision.

It’s a Circular Thing explores the circle as a central theme—a shape that holds significance not only in art but in geometry, symbolism, and life itself. Visitors can expect to be both visually captivated and intellectually engaged, as Tracey Jane’s pieces invite reflection on the beauty and meaning of this simple yet profound form.

The exhibition is open to all, making it a perfect seasonal outing for art enthusiasts and the curious alike. Don’t miss this opportunity to see Tracey Jane’s work in person.

The Rotary Club of Home Hill celebrated what was a successful 2025 for the club by doing what it does best: giving back.

The club marked its final meeting of the year by donating a total of $3,500 to three Burdekin-based organisations, selected by both the Rotary Club and it's Home Hill Harvest Festival queen, Eden Betteridge, on the basis of their roles in supporting the community.

Among recipients was CORES Queensland, the St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal, and the Burdekin Combined Chaplaincy, which each received $2,000, $1,000, and $500 respectively.

"It's just about giving," said Rotary Club President Alfio Musumeci. "We chose to donate locally because we see the need in the area."

The meeting played host to a sizeable crowd, and included a wide variety of food options for both dinner and dessert. Beyond the formalities, guests lingered to enjoy the company and jovial chatter.

The occasion rounded off a positive year for the club, which saw them raise $7,000 from this year's Harvest Festival alone. It remains hopeful of continued growth, with a number of prospective members
expressing interest.

If you're interested in joining the Rotary Club of Home Hill, contact the club on 0408 441 055 or at homehillrotary@gmail.com.

CORES Queensland receiving their $2,000 grant. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal representative accepting their $1,000 grant. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
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Burdekin Combined Chaplaincy being presented with their $500 grant. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

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The Burdekin community will gather in festive spirit on the grounds beside PCYC this Sunday, 14 December, for the Bendigo Community Bank – Home Hill and Ayr Christmas Carols.

From 5:30pm, families can expect an evening of festive music and fun, beginning with a performance by the Burdekin Brass Band to welcome attendees. Local stage production coordinator Monica Licciardello will lead a programme of favourite carols—with a few surprises—while Santa Claus will make a special appearance to delight the young and young at heart. The event will conclude with a fireworks display lighting up the Home Hill sky.

Young visitors can enjoy free children’s stickers and colouring-in sheets, courtesy of the CWL, as well as face painting, while the Burdekin Chaplains will have glow products available for purchase. Food and drink stalls will offer something for everyone throughout the evening.

Event organisers thank naming rights sponsor Bendigo Community Bank – Home Hill and Ayr, and major sponsor Triple M, which will broadcast the carols live and provide giveaways for attendees.

Bring a blanket, grab a chair, and join your neighbours for a night of music, laughter, and Burdekin community spirit as the festive season officially kicks off.

Easily accessible via both MacMillan and Wickham streets, the PCYC grounds are ready to welcome families and friends for a fun-filled evening of Christmas cheer.

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Ayr is gearing up for one of its biggest community events of the year, with the annual Christmas Street Party set to light up the town on Thursday night, 18th December.

This year’s event brings extra excitement, with a massive $25,000 worth of vouchers to be given away to lucky locals. The major prize draw will take place at 8:00pm in front of the BCA building, and residents are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good spot.

The Street Party aims to inspire the community to shop locally this Christmas, showing support for small businesses and helping keep local dollars in the Burdekin.

Families can look forward to a night packed with entertainment, including delicious food trucks, market stalls, live music, and plenty for the kids. Santa will make a special appearance for photos and festive fun.

Organisers say the Street Party has become a much-loved local tradition, bringing people together and providing a welcome boost for local traders during the busy Christmas season.

Everyone is invited to come along, enjoy the atmosphere, and be part of the celebrations — and most importantly, to be there for the $25,000 prize draw.

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Queensland’s agricultural sector is calling for stronger consultation and clearer regulations as the Federal Government undertakes a major overhaul of Australia’s environmental laws.

The reforms to the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act were the focus of Environment Minister Murray Watt’s recent National Press Club address. In response, AgForce General President Shane McCarthy said producers are prepared to engage immediately to ensure the new laws protect the environment without compromising the productivity of one of the nation’s most critical industries.

The EPBC reform bills have been referred to a five-month Senate inquiry, which Mr McCarthy says presents a valuable opportunity for meaningful dialogue with Queensland farmers—who manage the largest portion of Australia’s agricultural land.

There is concern within the sector that Queensland agricultural stakeholders have had limited engagement so far, despite the significance of the reforms. With agriculture contributing more than 5.7 per cent of Australia’s GDP, Mr McCarthy said it is essential that farmers’ insights help shape the revised legislation.

He highlighted several areas of confusion within the current EPBC Act, including duplication with state consent provisions, which can leave producers unintentionally breaching federal law even when they meet Queensland’s regulatory requirements.

“AgForce seeks clarity and certainty for Queensland producers in navigating increasingly complex and sometimes contradictory regulations across different government departments and levels,” he said.

“We are the stewards of much of Queensland’s vast landscapes and feel a deep sense of personal responsibility for protecting the environment for future generations and ensuring the food security and prosperity of this nation. We deserve to have a say in how Australia’s land and water is managed.

“The agricultural opportunity in Queensland is immense, and it is producers who hold the practical knowledge and capacity to deliver the balance between production, sustainability, and food security that the federal government is seeking.

“Farmers and regional communities must be genuinely included and consulted on matters that impact agricultural stability and innovation.”

AgForce continues to call for clearer consultation processes and greater certainty for producers navigating future reforms.

AgForce is Queensland’s peak representative body for rural producers.

Queensland graziers and growers want certainty under new EPBC laws, calling for clearer rules that support both sustainability and food security (Photo Credit: Sandie Peters)

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With Christmas just around the corner, Ruralquip is embracing the season of giving with the return of its highly anticipated Milwaukee Powered Up One Day Event™ — rolling out major deals, exciting giveaways, and even firing up the barbecue on Thursday, 11th December.

Now in its fifth year hosted by Ruralquip, the One Day Event has become a staple for local tradies, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone chasing reliable gear or last-minute Christmas gifts. This year is expected to be the biggest yet, with a wide range of additional Milwaukee stock specifically for the event, bonus offers available, and each purchase also granting entry into a Milwaukee Giveaway.

As you arrive at Ruralquip, you’ll be greeted by tents and display tables brimming with new and familiar products. Milwaukee experts will be on hand to run demonstrations and offer product advice, while the barbecue will keep going all day—bacon and egg burgers to fuel your morning, and steak burgers to satisfy your lunch hunger.

Ruralquip General Manager Shannon Musumeci says the day is as much about cultivating a positive social atmosphere as it is about showcasing the wide range of cutting-edge tools and deals on offer.

"It gets everybody together, it's very social, and it lets us touch base with our customers," she said.

Under the leadership of Wayne McDougall for the past three years, the retail team has grown into a well-oiled unit, combining their diverse skill sets to cover all bases of the store.

"We’ve got a very good, diverse range of skills in the team. Most customers have a favourite salesman that they find easiest to work with," said Wayne.

Beyond the know-how, Wayne says what helps the team to thrive is its sense of family, and making customers feel like part of it.

"We always try to greet everyone that walks through the door. We have a good rapport with customers... and they keep coming back, so we must be doing something right!" he laughed.

The team is always happy to share a laugh with customers, and are looking forward to sharing a few with the large crowd expected at the upcoming Milwaukee 'Powered Up' Event™.

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Your Friendly Neighbourhood Delivery Driver

In June this year, Burdekin mum Andrea Wood became the first Uber Eats driver in Ayr after a flyer in the mail piqued her interest. Just about every day since, she's been whizzing around in her famous blue hatchback, delivering far more than just food.

A Queensland Country Bank employee by day, by night, Andrea becomes the "Uber Lady," delivering not only combos and late-night cravings, but meaningful connections and moments of joy that have left their mark on the town.

It was in her first week that Andrea delivered to an elderly woman who had just learned how to use the app. "It's so good because I haven't had takeaway in six years, since they took my licence off me," the woman told her.

A week later, Andrea returned to the same address. "Oh no, darling. I didn't order it," the woman said, only to learn that her daughter in Brisbane had placed the order for her birthday. "I delivered her favourite Chinese on her birthday," Andrea recalls. "People said I was probably the only person she spoke to on her birthday apart from someone on the phone... [which] felt so nice."

It's providing this accessibility, for both convenient meals and human interaction, that Andrea says makes the job so personally rewarding.

"I work in a bank—this is a choice for me," she says. "I think it's a service the community can really benefit from in so many ways."

"Most people in the Burdekin are just trying to do the right thing—they don’t want to drink and drive, or they’re young kids without a licence, or older people who can’t drive... That’s really who I want to help."

From street to street, door to door, Andrea’s nightly rounds have become part of the rhythm of the Burdekin, not just for convenience, but for the small ways they connect the community.

A Queensland Country Bank employee by day, by night, Andrea becomes the "Uber Lady," delivering not only combos and late-night cravings, but meaningful connections and moments of joy that have left their mark on the town. Photo supplied

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Coming to the Burdekin always has a sense of coming home, and every time I visit it is wonderful to see the welcoming smile of familiar faces, people in the community that I’ve now known for more than two years.

The Burdekin Shire Council Industry Breakfast is an event I love attending. Not only do you get a hot cooked breakfast, you also instantly get a true taste of local life as everyone greets each other and settles in for a morning of networking.

Last week, I was excited to introduce our new dedicated Burdekin Sales Manager, Jack Bridgett, who many of you will have now seen as he introduces himself around.

Jack comes with long-term sales experience and is adept at building strong relationships with his clients, something I know he is looking forward to doing as he slowly works around the community and gets to know you all.

If you see him, please say hello and make him feel welcome.

We will run an article about him in the coming weeks, and I am sure Jacob will do a fine job in sharing Jack’s unique story with you.

And yes, we do indeed now have two ‘J’s’ serving the region – if you get confused then aim for either Jacob, Jack or even Jake and they will likely respond! (as I have discovered!)

Talking of your friendly neighbourhood journalist Jacob, I would like to commend him on his brilliantly written cover story this week about locally-raised world-champion golfer Karrie Webb.

Jacob has been perfecting this story for weeks, and I was about ready to demand he run it this week when he finally declared it was ‘good to go’.

Have a read – I am sure you will agree that his passion-piece is exceptionally well-written and worth the countless hours of reviewing and fine-tuning!

You did it, Jacob – congrats! And thank you as well for all your dedication to serving the Burdekin region.

Rach

Quote of the Week: "Have no fear of perfection, you shall never reach it" (Salvador Dali)

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Ayr-based disability support organisation Flexi Queensland is celebrating a major funding boost after being awarded $14,000 through the 2025 ANZ Seeds of Renewal program. The grant will support the organisation’s Sustainable SILS project, which will enhance Supported Independent Living homes through the installation of solar panels - reducing energy costs and improving long-term sustainability for residents living with a disability.

The Seeds of Renewal program—now in its 23rd year—is a partnership between ANZ and the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR), aimed at strengthening the resilience and prosperity of regional communities. This year, $250,000 in grants has been distributed to 19 community-based organisations across the country.

ANZ Associate Director, Agribusiness Research, Alanna Barrett, said: “For more than two decades, Seeds of Renewal has supported rural and regional communities to build resilience and create sustainable futures. These grants enable local organisations to turn ideas into action – delivering initiatives that make a tangible difference for people, businesses and the communities they call home.”

FRRR Head of Granting, Jill Karena, said: “The Seeds of Renewal program recognises that even a modest grant can unlock significant impact by amplifying the efforts of local volunteers. We prioritise projects that are deeply rooted in their communities: locally designed, locally driven, and with the potential to grow and create vibrant, resilient and sustainable places to live and work.”

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A decade-long connection has resulted in one of the largest single contributions to date for Ren Pedersen’s Million Dollar Mission, with the Neilson Foundation confirming a $250,000 donation to support research into Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG).

Burdekin-born Pedersen first encountered representatives from Kerr Neilson’s investment network roughly ten years ago, when he was invited to speak at a business forum at The Ville. “Around ten years ago, I was asked to address a business forum at The Ville to enlighten attendees about my mission,” he said. At the event, he was seated alongside Julian McCormack of Platinum Investments, “one of Australias most esteemed financial organisations.”

A shared link to a family who had recently lost a child to DIPG led to further conversations. “Essentially, Julian and I became close mates and he suggested I enlighten Mr Neilson on the gravitas of my mission.”

Pedersen said his first direct appeal to Neilson was unsuccessful. “When I first met Kerr he was very weary… He originally rebuked my request,” he said.

The turning point came when Neilson agreed to visit the Children’s Cancer Institute’s DIPG laboratory. According to Pedersen, the experience left a lasting impression. “For an internationally famous, eminent corporate citizen to physically enter science's most challenging coalface, would have been quite daunting for Mr Neilson,” he said. During the tour, Neilson observed “‘live’ brain cancer cells (that were extracted from deceased DIPG children)” and questioned researchers extensively about emerging findings.

Pedersen recalls asking Neilson if he had ever witnessed anything similar. “He replied, ‘No’. We shook hands and two fathers looked each other in the eyes.”

Several months later, Neilson informed Pedersen of the Neilson Foundation’s decision to contribute a quarter of a million dollars. “Not a form was filled out. No ceremony or fanfare,” Pedersen said. “Two men of honour have pledged to deliver life saving options for local brain cancer children…”

Pedersen said the funding will have an immediate impact. “It saves time. In one hit, we can expedite crucial research. These funds are delivered directly into the hands of researchers like Prof. David Zeigler and A/Prof Maria Tsoli.”

With the project now approaching the $500,000 mark, Pedersen says the donation serves as a challenge to others. “I consider this donation as a ‘Call to Arms’ for local businesses!”

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A decade-long connection has resulted in one of the largest single contributions to date for Ren Pedersen’s Million Dollar Mission, with the Neilson Foundation confirming a $250,000 donation to support research into Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG). Photo supplied
The turning point came when Neilson agreed to visit the Children’s Cancer Institute’s DIPG laboratory. Photo supplied

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Last week’s Burdekin Industry Breakfast once again proved a valuable connection point, linking local businesses, organisations and industry stakeholders to emerging opportunities and key information ahead of disaster season.

From 7:00am to 8:30am, operators from across the region gathered in the Burdekin Theatre foyer for breakfast and a program of updates, networking and discussions with some of North Queensland’s leading businesses and institutions.

Matt Heley from CQUniversity outlined how the university had been working with local employers to address regional skill shortages through targeted training pathways in agriculture, health, engineering and education. He said CQU’s flexible delivery options and industry-engaged research were already opening the door to stronger collaboration with Burdekin businesses.

Telstra’s Regional General Manager for Northern Queensland, Rachel Cliffe, discussed business resiliency and connectivity literacy, explaining how organisations could better anticipate and adapt to disruptions such as natural disasters and cyber threats. Her presentation highlighted new opportunities for Burdekin operators to partner with Telstra to strengthen their digital capability and continuity planning.

To close the morning, Burdekin Shire Council’s Disaster Management Team delivered a concise rundown of tips, tools and key information as local businesses and residents prepare for the upcoming disaster season.

The event continued its role as a practical forum for local industries to exchange ideas, explore support options and build relationships that benefit the wider community.

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Deputy Mayor Max Musumeci, Matt Heley from CQ University, Councillor John Furnell, Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Councillor Fina Vasta

Kari Ravizza and staff member from McCathies Furniture Court

Josie Pickering, Alex Maddison, Melissa Kearney and Rachel Cliffe from Telstra

Eileen Davescovi and Jenny Cummings from Burdekin Shire Council Disaster Management Team  

Eusebio Aguirre and Lyn McLaughlin

Deputy Mayor Max Musumeci, Shannon Musumeci, Chantel Michielin, Raelene Agius and Chris Delaney

Clancie, Latoya, John, Paula, Steph and Candice from Nutrien Harcourts McCathies

John Clarke and David Jackson from Home Hill Chamber of Commerce

Eliza Lovell and Faith Swindley from Burdekin Shire Council

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Opinion Piece bu Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox

The latest round of the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program is a major disappointment for
the Dawson electorate, with the Albanese Labor Government failing to provide meaningful
investment in one of Australia’s largest and most critical regional highways.

Of the $9 billion announced for the Bruce Highway, $7.2 billion from the Federal Government
and the rest from the State, only $500 million is allocated to these projects, and the works in
Dawson are limited to pavement strengthening. There is no significant investment in long-term
safety, reliability, or future-proofing the corridor.

The latest Dawson-specific projects include:
South of Glendaragh Road (Mackay – Proserpine)
Marian Hampden Road to Hudsons Road (Mackay – Proserpine)
Greta Creek to Emu Creek (Proserpine – Bowen)
South of Goodbye Creek (Bowen – Ayr)
Various sections between Bowen – Ayr
Various sections between Ayr – Townsville

“These works are simply patching the surface of a highway that desperately needs real
investment,” said Andrew Willcox, Federal Member for Dawson.

“The Bruce Highway is the lifeline of regional Queensland, connecting communities across
enormous distances. It’s disappointing to see the Albanese Government delivering crumbs
instead of a comprehensive plan for safety and reliability.

“Pavement strengthening alone is not enough. Our communities need major upgrades; bridges,
overtaking lanes, flood mitigation, and long-term planning to ensure the Bruce is safe and
resilient for decades to come.

Dawson is a large electorate to travel. The Bruce isn’t just a road here, it’s our critical link to
jobs, services, and regional economies. Token projects like these simply won’t cut it.

“Queenslanders have waited far too long for meaningful action. The Albanese Labor
Government needs to stop announcing programs that look good on paper and start delivering
projects that make a real difference on the ground.

“These small-scale works are a start, but they fall far short of what is required to protect lives
and support regional communities. The people of Dawson deserve more than crumbs, they
deserve a Bruce Highway that is safe, reliable, and future-ready.”

Mr Willcox is calling on the Albanese Government to commit to major, long-term investment in
the Bruce Highway in Dawson and across regional Queensland, rather than relying on minimal,
token projects that fail to address the scale of the problem.

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Andrew Willcox, Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, is calling for long-term investment into the Bruce Highway, to improve safety, reliability and resilience for regional communities. Photo supplied

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