Give us a sign – if a sign is needed

During Easter I had the pleasure of taking my family north to Port Macquarie, which was a beautiful getaway for all of us. Unfortunately, I was also able to see yet again how poorly sections of the Pacific Highway cope with holiday traffic. I extend my sympathies to everyone who was stuck in traffic on the highway and the F3.

The RTA is making some good progress on parts of the highway, especially around Bulahdelah, but it’s clear that further funding is badly needed. As always, the volunteers at the driver reviver stops did a remarkable job helping keep people recharged and refreshed.

One issue that can be managed better is signage. On returning to Sydney on the F3 from Newcastle we were in need of a comfort stop and turned off at the Morisset exit after driving for many kilometres with no signs showing where the next rest stop would be.

Less than one kilometre off the freeway we were pleasantly surprised to find a service centre complete with a petrol station, two food outlets and toilet amenities. I asked the staff why there was no signage on the F3 signalling the presence of facilities so near the freeway and was told that there have been many discussions with the authorities over several years with no outcome.

I couldn’t help but think of the hundreds of motorists who have either run out of petrol or suffered as a result of needing a comfort break, without realising help was close by. Is this an isolated case or are Members aware of other locations which have much-needed facilities but no generic signs pointing the way? Please let us know if you know of another location which would benefit from signs advising motorists of nearby facilities by emailing us. I will then ensure we raise such matters next time we meet with the Roads Minister and the CEO of the RTA.

Group CEO Tony Stuart