Traffic diversions on Gold Coast Highway after claims industrial action delays motor race pack down

The Gold Coast Highway was expected to be completely reopened by Tuesday but industrial action has delayed the clean-up, according to Supercars.

An industrial dispute has delayed the clean-up of the Gold Coast 500 motor race, leaving event infrastructure scattered across the highway with traffic diversions remaining in place.

Access to the eastern lanes of the Gold Coast Highway will remain reduced with the race organiser hopeful the temporary infrastructure will be cleared by Wednesday morning.

A Supercars spokeswoman told The Courier-Mail a disagreement between a union and the state government had caused the delay.

The event organisers are hopeful the road will be cleared by Wednesday morning. Picture: Adam Head

“Unfortunately, this situation is not under our control and is an industrial dispute between the relative union and the nominated government contractor responsible for reopening the Gold Coast Highway,” she said on Tuesday afternoon.

“Latest indications to Supercars are that works will recommence shortly and roads will be reopened early Wednesday morning.”

A Transport and Main Roads spokesperson said work to return the Gold Coast Highway to usual operation will be completed overnight.

“It will be open to traffic tomorrow (Wednesday).”

“This work is scheduled at night, when traffic is lower, to ensure the safety of workers and minimise disruption to nearby traffic lanes,” the spokesperson said.

“Electrical Trades Union (ETU) officers entered the site on Monday night under Section 117 of the Queensland Work Health and Safety Act.

“RoadTek, the nominated contractor for GC500, has responded to the union’s concerns and work will proceed tonight (Tuesday).”

Originally published as Traffic diversions on Gold Coast Highway after claims industrial action delays motor race pack down