Media Release

The Palmerston Highway is the major link between the coast and the
Tablelands in Far North Qld. It has been in a dangerous condition for too long.
KAP Member for Kennedy, Bob Katter and KAP Member for Dalrymple, Shane Knuth have
appealed to the State Government to prioritise upgrades as a matter of urgency.
Mr Katter said, “With the deregulation of the dairy industry and the consequential collapse of
the maize industry, the farmers had to turn to sugar cane which has put additional loads on
the Palmerston Highway - loads the Palmerston Highway were never meant to take.
“The ALP/LNP governments of Qld ripped up the railway line so now, not surprisingly the
road is taking a load it can’t handle.
“The former Transport Minister of the Qld Government was the MP for half of Innisfail and a
senior member of the government. He had the power and he did nothing.
Mr Knuth said, “We are calling for urgent attention to this road.
“The road is a major arterial route and it is not only deteriorating, it is falling to pieces.
“It is a major safety risk, it’s completely potholed out from Millaa Millaa to Innisfail.
“I’ve used it myself and I’ve found many bush tracks in better condition. It is the vital
service link for tourism, industry and public.”
Mr Knuth has already raised this issue with the Minister for Main Roads to prioritise this road
and provide Nth Qlders with the basic services that the south-east corner takes for granted.
Mr Knuth said, “This is urgent. Lives are at risk. I’ve invited the Minister to come and inspect
the road.”
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