A Word From Wayde - Wayde Chiesa MP, Member for Hinchinbrook

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Investing in Our Roads, Supporting Industry and Strengthening Our Community

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As your elected State Member, I’m pleased to share that important asphalt pavement maintenance works are underway on the Bruce Highway between Scovazzi’s Road and Larsen’s Road. This investment reflects our ongoing commitment to improving road safety and ensuring Queenslanders can travel on well-maintained, reliable infrastructure. By undertaking these works, we are addressing wear and tear while enhancing driving conditions for the many commuters, freight operators and families who rely on this critical transport corridor each and every day.

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Further to this, motorists are advised of temporary traffic changes on the Bruce Highway near Ollera Creek from 26 May to 17 July, between 6am and 6pm, to allow for essential geotechnical investigation works. These investigations are a key step in planning future improvements and maintaining the long-term resilience of our road network. I encourage everyone travelling through the area to plan ahead, follow signage, and take extra care.

Road safety remains a top priority, and while I understand roadworks can at times be inconvenient, they are vital to delivering safer and more efficient roads for our community. I urge all motorists travelling through work zones to drive carefully, follow traffic directions, and allow extra travel time where possible. Your patience and cooperation play an important role in keeping both road workers and fellow drivers safe.

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Strong infrastructure like this not only improves safety, it also supports the success of our key local industries. In that context, I recently had the incredible opportunity to tour the Lucinda Bulk Sugar Terminal with Sugar Terminals Limited, gaining a firsthand look at one of North Queensland’s most significant export operations.

It is remarkable to think that a simple stick of cane planted right here in our district can be grown, harvested, and transported from local fields to international markets, where it is used in a wide range of products and industries around the world. This journey highlights not only the strength of our local agricultural sector, but also the critical role our transport networks play in connecting producers to global markets. I extend my sincere thanks to the team at the terminal for taking the time to show us through and share their knowledge.

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At the same time, it is equally important that we preserve the heritage that defines our region. It is great to see funding allocated under the North and Far North Tropical Low Heritage Disaster Recovery Grant toward Ingham’s Gairloch Bridge Conservation Project. This iconic local landmark holds cherished memories for so many and has long served as a vital connection point within our community. The Crisafulli Government is proud to support the preservation of heritage-listed places and the landmarks that tell the story of our region.

Looking ahead, I also encourage community members and stakeholders to stay informed and have their say on broader policy matters affecting Queensland. The Queensland Productivity Commission has been tasked with undertaking a public inquiry into the impacts of the Australian Government’s 2025 reforms to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

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This inquiry will examine how these changes affect Queensland in practice, including regulatory and economic impacts, implementation risks, and operational arrangements. Importantly, it will also consider opportunities to reduce unnecessary regulatory burden while improving efficiency; an issue that matters greatly to our industries, regional communities, and future development.

The Commission will shortly release a call for submissions, and I encourage interested individuals, businesses and organisations to take part in the process. You can also contact the Commission directly at enquiry@qpc.qld.gov.au to contribute or learn more.

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By continuing to invest in our roads, support our industries, preserve our heritage, and engage in important policy discussions, we are building a stronger, more resilient future for Hinchinbrook and all Queenslanders.

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