Speed limit slashed on Channon St and two major country roads

A series of car accidents on several Gympie region roads and streets has prompted the changes, endorsed by local police, council and the Transport Department

Early morning light at Channon Street, Gympie. Photo Lachie Millard

Speeds are being reduced on four roads in Wide Bay to improve motorist safety.

Transport and Main Roads Southern Queensland Regional Director Kym Murphy said limits had been reviewed following several crashes over the past five years.

“The reviews look at several important factors including crash history, traffic volumes, types of vehicles using the road, the road’s geometry and it’s role on the road network,” Ms Murphy said.

“The findings were presented to the local Speed Management Committee, including representatives from Queensland Police Service, local government and Transport and Main Roads, which endorsed the reduced limits.”

On Kin Kin Road, the speed limit will be reduced from 100km/h to 80km/h between Tin Can Bay Road and Wolvi township, and between Yellow Gully Road and Counter Road.

Between Counter Road and the start of the gravel section on Kin Kin Road, the limit will be reduced to 90km/h.

On Gympie Connection Road, known locally as Channon Street, the limit will be reduced from 60km/h to 50km/h between the Bruce Highway and Stewart Terrace.

On Bauple-Woolooga Road, west of Gootchie, the 100km/h limit will be reduced to 80km/h between the Bruce Highway and Gootchie Road.

On the western side of Hivesville, the existing 60km/h speed limit on Wondai-Proston Road will be extended past the Gayndah-Hivesville Road intersection.

New ‘60km/h ahead’ signs will be installed on both approaches to Hivesville.

Ms Murphy urged all motorists to look out for the new speed signs and adhere to the changed limits.

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“We all have a role to play in road safety and these limits are the maximum safe speed in ideal conditions,” she said.

“Motorists should always drive to the conditions and reduce their speed in wet weather or other adverse conditions.

“Speeding is included in the fatal five list of most deadly driver behaviours alongside drink and drug driving, fatigue, inattention and not using a seatbelt.”

The new speed limits are due to be enforced in May 2021.