Upgrades to five rest areas in the Riverina Murray will make it easier for truckies to take a break. Photo: zetter.
Upgrades to five rest areas catering to heavy vehicles in Southern NSW have been completed as part of an $11.9 million initiative from the State Government to improve road safety.
On average, 52 people are killed each year in 48 fatal crashes involving heavy vehicles in NSW and there are more than 900 injuries.
The upgrades include the Berry Jerry rest area on the Sturt Highway as well as Beckom, Bundure, and the Marsden northbound and southbound rest areas on the Newell Highway.
While these are not exclusive to truckies, each includes large enough parking areas for heavy vehicles.
Solar lighting has been installed at rest areas as part of the government upgrades. Photo: TfNSW.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchison said the upgrades would improve safety for all users and allow drivers to take a short break.
“Driver fatigue is one of the top four contributing factors to fatal crashes on NSW roads, highlighting the importance of adequate rest and rest stop facilities for all drivers,” she said.
“The Minns Labor Government is working closely with, and listening to the road freight industry, as we improve the quantity and quality of heavy vehicle rest stops.”
The upgrades provided solar-powered lighting for the toilet blocks and new picnic shelters.
Member for Murray Helen Dalton said it was good to see investment in the region.
“When our heavy vehicle drivers are safe, it contributes to safer roads for all road users,” she said.
“Rest areas support truck driver health, safety and wellbeing, and compliance with mandatory rest breaks for fatigue management.”
Transport for NSW also installed improved roadside signage at a number of service centres along the Hume, Sturt and Newell highways to assist heavy vehicle drivers to better identify rest stops.
The upgrades are part of the government’s $11.9 million Heavy Vehicle Rest Stop Minor Works Program and follow upgrades to Seven Trees and Curlwaa rest areas on the Silver City Highway and Bundjalung rest area on the Pacific Highway.
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