29 March, 2023
Driver Reviver Will Close
Despite a petition by locals and the best efforts of MP James Lister, the Gladfield Driver Reviver site will close as planned according to Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Mark Bailey.
The closure of the site was announced at the end of 2022 along with the closure of all government funded sites around the state.
Mr Bailey claims use of the Driver Reviver sites has decreased by 80 per cent and concerns over health issues in infrastructure were the reasons behind the closures.
The Gladfield site is well located, as it gives drivers the opportunity to rest and revive before approaching the difficult Cunningham’s Gap section of the highway.
The blanket decision to close all sites appears to have been made without consideration of the value of individual sites such as the one at Gladfield.
Southern Downs MP James Lister corresponded with the Minister regarding the closure but despite these efforts the sites will close regardless of the condition of infrastructure and regardless of individual importance.
On a positive note Mr Bailey said the off road parking site at Gladfield will remain open for motorists.
Member for Southern Downs, James Lister not happy with decision -
“I am dismayed by the state government’s decision to evict the Gladfield Driver Reviver from its site on the Cunningham Highway. What a terrible way to treat the terrific group of volunteers who love serving the travelling public and who are so proud to offer a cupper and friendly yarn to weary travellers.
“The minister, Mr Bailey, and his department, have repeatedly said that poor patronage and a shortage of volunteers justifies this decision. Those excuses are just straight out codswallop and a discourtesy to the intelligence of our community.
“They are also saying that driver revivers can simply move into their local towns’ visitor information centres. That’s also nonsense. How are trucks and caravans going to pull up in the Main Street of Warwick?
“We got three thousand signatures online and on paper showing that our Gladfield Driver Reviver is busy, well-beloved, and supported by an extensive group of dedicated local volunteers.
“This is just a dreadful decision by the Palaszczuk Government and I utterly condemn them for it. It flies in the face of public opinion, road safety and common sense."
