Planning to start on deadly road intersection upgrade where Olivia and Bev Harwood died

Olivia and Bev Harwood were killed at this Warrego Highway intersection two years ago. Here’s what is happening.

Olivia Harwood, 17, was killed in the 2018 crash.

Planning is set to start on upgrading the intersection of the Warrego Highway and Brimblecombe Rd, where Olivia and Beverly Harwood were killed just over two years ago.

The Federal Government originally announced the $2.2 million in funding for the upgrades in the 2019 budget.

Rockhampton teenager Olivia Harwood, 17, died at the scene of the October 2, 2018 three-vehicle crash.

Her mother Bev, 44, died in hospital a week later after succumbing to injuries she sustained in the crash.

A semi-trailer travelling east along the highway had collided with a utility, also travelling east.

The collision is believed to have pushed the ute into oncoming traffic and into the path of the Harwood family’s sedan.

Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport Scott Buchholz said there had been 47 crashes at that intersection over the last five years.

Scott Buchholz, Pat Weir and Garth Hamilton at Brimblecombe Rd.

“It weighs heavy on my heart, especially the Harwood family, the mother and daughter who tragically lost their lives back in 2018,” Mr Buchholz said.

“Molly, the surviving daughter is graduating in two days time, without her mother, without her sister.

“It’s only fitting that this National Road Safety Week to pledge to invest in this infrastructure.”

Mr Buchholz said the planning and design work would begin early next year.

“The project is intended to be completed by the end of next year,” he said.

Groom LNP candidate Garth Hamilton said the Federal Government had also allocated $5 million to provide new turning lanes to improve safety and traffic flow on the New England Highway at the Borneo Barrack at Cabarlah.

“Our communities and our local economy both rely on high quality and safe roads.” Mr Hamilton said.

“If I’m elected, a key focus will be ensuring we get the new roads and upgrades we need.”

Mr Buchholz said he urged all motorists to take care of themselves and others when driving.