Media Release

17 May 2017: KAP Member for Kennedy, Bob Katter, in light of the confirmed discovery of an explosive device in Edmonton and the ensuring traffic bedlam, has today AGAIN called for a second access for Southern Cairns.

It is reported that an explosive device was found on the side of the Bruce Highway in Edmonton today at 11:45am. An Emergency Declaration has been announced and the Bruce Highway from Foster Road, Mount Sheridan to Mill Road is closed to traffic in both directions. Media are reporting that trips which would normally take 20 minutes are taking commuters over 2 hours.

Edmonton is in Mr Katter’s electorate for Kennedy and for many years now the Southern Cairns community has been calling for a second access into Cairns.

“I got caught there myself for nearly 3 hours when a chemical truck turned over,” Mr Katter said.

“There has to be mapped out right now an alternative southern approach on the eastern side of the highway.

“I’m sick and tired of talking about it. We want action on it and we will be really upset if we don’t get action.

“There has been a reluctance by officials up to date and it has to stop. We need a second access for Southern Cairns.

“The delays along the Bruce Highway, disrupts tourism and local business on a massive scale. This is just the latest example.

“We are determined to reserve and resume land for that alternative eastern corridor. This is among one of our highest priorities.

We will continue to fight like tigers to ensure there is a second access into Cairns,” Mr Katter said.