Media Release

Federal Member for Kennedy and KAP Leader Bob Katter has called on State and Federal Governments to act upon the formal calls of the Regional Roads Forum held in Hughenden today and immediately commit funding to complete unsealed sections of the Hann Highway.

Approximately 100 people attended the forum, hosted by the Hughenden Chamber of Commerce, Hann Highway Action Group and Flinders Shire Council. State Member for Mount Isa Robbie Katter also attended, together with regional Mayors and members of the public.

Mr Katter said today that finishing the Hann Highway would provide an inland route linking Cairns to Melbourne, saving approximately 700km off the trip. It would also allow road trains to travel the entire distance without needing to unhook their trailers, drastically reducing maintenance, fuel and fatigue management.

“The Hann Highway is the missing link between Lynd and Hughenden – linking Cairns to Melbourne – and there are several sections that need funding immediately,“ Mr Katter said.

“Yet Governments are stalling on the additional funding required for completion of the highway.

“There has been no funding from this Federal Government nor the previous State Government. Yet they could afford $5,000 million for the tunnel network for Brisbane.”

Mr Katter said that the strategic importance of the Hann Highway could not be overstated and that it would be the alternative inland route to the Bruce Highway when it floods.

“It will greatly improve the movement of cattle, long distance transport, create employment opportunities and will benefit tourism for the area,” Mr Katter said.

“We only hope that State and Federal Governments will now listen and act,” Mr Katter said.