Speed limit cut ‘just not enough’
A PUBLICAN who has seen “horrific” accidents on the Gillies Range Rd has criticised a speed limit reduction for not going far enough.
It comes as frustrated Little Mulgrave and Goldsborough residents push for a full audit of speed limits at the base of the range to improve safety for motorists.
A 100km/h section between Little Mulgrave Rd and Appaloosa St will be lowered to 80km/h on Thursday to make it safer for drivers leaving the Mountain View Hotel.
But Mountain View Hotel owner John Pearce said the reduction “won’t make a difference”.
“I don’t think 80km/h will wash very well with the people out here,” he said.
“They have had horrific accidents there. It is a big blind corner. My thoughts go out to the people who have had legs taken off. If you look at the guide posts they are always knocked over.”
A petition requesting a 60km/h speed limit was lodged in State Parliament earlier this year.
Acting Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports Steven Miles said a “rigorous” review found no technical justification for a speed limit lower than 80km/h.
“The speed limit review looked at factors including visibility for motorists, the roadside environment, inter- sections, crash history, traffic volumes and road alignment,” he said.
“To encourage consistency and safe driver behaviour, speed limits on the state-controlled road network are set in accordance with stringent national standards.”
Cairns Regional Council Councillor Brett Moller welcomed the speed limit reduction and said residents also wanted an audit to address variable speed limits in the area.
He said stretch … bends”.
“You do have to be on your toes when you are driving that stretch,” he said.
“I think it is imperative that we get it right and have good road safety on that stretch.” it was a “tricky with sweeping • Snorkelling equipment • Underwater observatory • Marine life touch tank • Glass bottom boat & semi-submarine tours • Sumptuous buffet lunch • Optional extras - scuba diving, guided snorkel safari, Seawalker helmet diving & $ Ê + ŃÇ $