Media Release-Update on Gatton Breakdown Pad 10/08/2022

The Queensland Trucking Association (QTA) today has spoken with the Director General, Transport and Main Roads to discuss the rising tensions among some about the issue of toilet amenities at the Gatton Breakdown Pad. The  improvements that were made to the Gatton Pad Breakdown facility were an advancement for the use that was intended. However, due to the current refurbishment of the nearby BP, capacity has been limited for heavy vehicles. This has meant the Breakdown Pad has been more frequently used by drivers as a rest area which has increased conversation around the need for amenities.

The private installation of portable toilets on the site are a matter of contention between government and those lobbying for toilet amenities to be built. Hon. Mark Bailey (Minister for Transport and Main Roads) has agreed to allow the current temporary portable toilet amenities to remain on site until a solution is determined within the coming weeks. A solution to the issue for the immediate future is being considered and a site visit will be made to determine suitable options. 

There are several factors that must be considered to balance the argument for amenities on the Pads:

• The Gatton Breakdown Pad was not intended to be an official heavy vehicle rest area
• During the construction of the Gatton Breakdown Pad, the University of Queensland opposed plans to have toilet amenities built on the site due to the proximity to prime research land and declared it would be a biohazard.

Gary Mahon, Chief Executive Officer, QTA said, “A number of factors have brought this issue to a head so when considering a decision on how to move forward, industry must be considerate of the original intended use of the these facilities as a breakdown pad. However, we do acknolwedge that increased use of facility has brought about the need for a solution in the short term to ensure the wellbeing of drivers is being considered. Our intention is to work collaboratively with government to find a solution."

The QTA has been in contact with Rod Hannifey, President of the National Road Freighters Association (NRFA) and we will continue to consult with NRFA while the situation is being resolved. Rod Hannifey is pleased to have the support of the QTA.

Rod Hannifey, President, NFRA said, "NRFA have sat and watched the situation and are concerned it has not been resolved. Drivers suffer from a lack of amenities in so many places and this is yet another that we have not been able to fix. We seek consultation with government and find an outcome that satisfies the needs for all those using the Breakdown Pad."

We acknowledge TMR's co-operation to resolve this matter and understand that further funding will be required to make any further improvements to the current facility. 

We do not want this issue to be the cause of a stand-off, but rather an opportunity to work together towards a workable solution.

Media contact
Gary Mahon, CEO, gary@qta.com.au

M 0418 763 802