Which Way To Banyan Creek? Road Naming Confusion Sparks Concern

Banyan Creek Bridge along the Bruce Highway. Photo source: Google Maps

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Confusion surrounding multiple Banyan Creek road signs in the Cassowary Coast has been raised as a concern, with questions emerging around clarity for road users.

The issue was recently flagged by longtime resident and local Councillor, Trudy Tschui, who has formally raised the matter with the Department of Transport and Main Roads (DTMR), citing concerns about the potential for misdirection.

“This request to DTMR aligns with the ongoing issues at that area.  The bridge and access are dangerous, add in the confusion of the uncertainty of the name, and it is an accident waiting to happen,” said Ms Tschui.

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Within the region, there are three locations known as Banyan Creek: one on Tully/Mission Beach Road (Whitings Crossing), another on the Bruce Highway north of Tully near the service stations, and a third as you cross the bridge into the Tully township.

Drivers unfamiliar with the region have been left guessing, with the signage causing uncertainty for those navigating between communities, especially during North Queensland’s wet season.  

“The confusion happens when the flooding occurs and social media reports Whitings is over, and as new residents are unsure where that is, they may head out to the Bruce Highway from Mission Beach only to discover the road is closed,” explained Ms Tschui.

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Ms Tschui said the issue had been brought to the attention of Cassowary Coast Regional Council through both community feedback, and personal experiences.

“I have had residents contact me directly about the matter, and I see the comments on social media of other voicing their concerns,” she added.

In response, the concern was escalated to DTMR, the authority responsible for road signage across the state.

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“I have contacted DTMR directly, asking for a sign to go under the Banyan Creek sign reading “Known Locally as Whitings Crossing”, but I have not been successful with that request,” said Ms Tschui.

“There’s a process and policy regarding name changing, but I feel another sign would be adequate as opposed to a name change.”

A TMR spokesperson confirmed the department is aware of the concerns, stating that signage across the area is accurate.

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“The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) is aware of concerns regarding multiple Banyan Creek signs in the Cassowary Coast region,” the spokesperson said.

“There are two state-controlled roads that cross Banyan Creek: the Bruce Highway and Tully–Mission Beach Road. Signage at both crossings is accurate and compliant with TMR guidelines.”

Clear and consistent signage plays an important role in ensuring safe and efficient travel, particularly in regional areas where visitors may rely heavily on road directions.

At the time of publishment, despite community concerns, no changes to the existing signage have been confirmed.

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