Council pushes urgent rethink on busy intersection

Published on 22 April 2026

Fraser Coast Regional Council is calling on the Queensland Government to urgently review whether the planned upgrade for one of the region’s busiest and fastest-growing traffic corridors is the right long-term solution.

At its meeting today (Wednesday 22 April), Council unanimously supported a motion from Deputy Mayor Lachlan Cosgrove to seek a review of the proposed upgrade at the intersection of Hervey Bay–Maryborough Road and Pialba–Burrum Heads Road.

Deputy Mayor Cosgrove said the intersection was under increasing pressure as the Fraser Coast continued to grow.

“This is a key link for people travelling to and from some of our fastest-growing communities,” he said.

“Areas like Dundowran, Craignish, Howard, Torbanlea, Burrum Heads and Eli Waters are all seeing strong growth, and that’s only expected to continue.

“We need to make sure the infrastructure we’re planning today can handle not just current traffic, but what the region will look like in 10, 20 or even 30 years’ time.”

Cr Cosgrove said there were concerns the current upgrade proposal may not go far enough to meet future demand.

“Council is urging the State Government to take another look at whether the proposed design is the right long-term solution, or if a higher-order upgrade is needed,” he said.

“If we’re encouraging more housing and growth across the region, we also need to make sure our major road infrastructure keeps pace.

“Getting this right now will help avoid bigger congestion and safety issues down the track.

“At the very least, we’re seeking clear advice on timeframes and better communication with the community about when works will begin.”

Council will write to the Queensland Ministers for Transport and Main Roads and State Development, Infrastructure and Planning to formally request the review and updated project information.