Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett has renewed his calls for a multimodal pathway between Bundaberg and Bargara following a hit and run on Bargara Road.

“Our worst fears came to fruition last week when a cyclist was hit on Bargara Road near the Hummock,” said Mr Bennett.

“My thoughts are with the 65-year-old man, it was a horrific accident and I’m wishing him a speedy recovery.

“I cannot stress the importance of developing a dedicated multimodal pathway between Bundaberg and Bargara as a matter of urgency.

“Bargara Road has already claimed the lives of pedestrians and I’m not willing to stand by while the risk increases as the road gets busier.

“Today I once again asked the Minister for Transport to help save lives by prioritising this project.”

Mr Bennett tabled a Question on Notice for Minister Bailey this morning.

Considering the most recent bicycle related accident on Bargara Road last week, the hit and run that saw a 65-year-old man hospitalised, will the Minister (a) outline the results of a 2019-20 investigation into options for improving Bundaberg–Bargara Road, including pedestrian and cyclist demand? (b) prioritise and fund the design and construction of the highly sought-after bike and pedestrian path between Bundaberg and Bargara?

“The Bundaberg and Burnett region is one of the best places to live, work and raise a family,” said Mr Bennett.

“But we’re missing the connectivity we so desperately need.

“I asked a Question on Notice in Parliament on this issue almost two months ago and we’re still waiting on any news.

“Talks on this pathway between TMR and the BRC began back in 2018 and I’m encouraging both levels of government to continue to work together to make this project a reality.”

ENDS.

12/10/2022