Bird’s Eye View

BIRDS EYE VIEW by Carol Messenger

Afew issues ago, I wrote an article about the problems with the 'Super Quads' on Great Northern Highway between Newman and Port Hedland.

The article provoked considerable response, ranging from supporters who agreed with my thoughts to those [in some case trolls] who told me that A: I didn't know what I was talking about and B: That's life and that I should be more patient.

The thing that struck me most was those that referred to my gender and used this as a basis to attack me. As a woman, I obviously have no idea what I am talking about, I can't identify the difference between triples and quads and I can't count.

There were however quite a large number who also expressed their concerns about the increased strain - both mental and physical, when it comes to sharing the road with these vehicles. In fact, there are many drivers and even some Transport Companies who will not send their trucks up this route anymore, preferring to send them via the North West Coastal Highway - although longer in both time and distance they say it is much safer and a whole lot less frustrating.

WA Transport Magazine approached Main Roads to obtain some information and future plan for the Super Quads on this route. As I mentioned in the previous article, I had encountered 92 of them travelling towards me on that 450km stretch.

These were just the ones coming towards me so it would be safe to assume

Along-term plan that will see the Muchea Industrial Park transform into a strategic industrial hub, generating thousands of jobs over coming years, has been given the green light.

Located in the Shire of Chittering and only about 50 kilometres north-east of the Perth CBD, the park is situated at the junction of key arterial roads, connecting it to both the metropolitan area and the State's mining and agricultural districts.

Businesses based there will benefit from direct access to Western Australia's triple road-train network, creating the capability to service and link the capital's ports and freight networks with the State's North and Mid-West regions.

The park's location, and its ability to support heavy vehicle access, means it is well-positioned to suit a range of enterprises, including freight, logistics and agribusiness.

The Muchea Industrial Park structure plan is the result of extensive consultation and aims to balance economic growth while respecting the area's rural character and protecting environmentally significant features, including Banksia woodlands and Ellen Brook.

For more information on the Muchea Industrial Park Structure Plan, go to www. wa.gov.au/organisation/department-ofplanning-lands-and-heritage