The New South Wales government has revealed that motorists and heavy vehicle operators will benefit from a more comfortable space to rest and manage fatigue risks with the opening of the updated Gilgunnia Goldfields rest area.
Located roughly 109km south of Cobar on the Kidman Way, the rest areas was given a $225,000 makeover to bring it up to modern standards.
The rest area upgrade was delivered by the NSW government in outback NSW, with a key feature of the upgrade being the installation of a modern flushing toilet to replace the waterless composting toilet that had been in place for many years.
Other work included drainage improvements and pavement upgrades in the truck parking bay, plus a fresh coat of paint on the water tank.
MORE OWNERDRIVER TRENDING STORIES:
- NHVR CEO to step down
- Keith Reid and his Volvo Viking
- Behind the latest Penske Master Technician winners
- October truck sales enjoy mixed results
- Friday Road Update: November 8
Redundant facilities including a non-working barbecue, a cage and a disused water tank will be removed in coming weeks.
“Long distances are a fact of life for people travelling in western NSW and managing fatigue is vital for road safety,” NSW regional transport and roads Jenny Aitchison says.
“Providing clean modern rest areas with toilet facilities like the one at this rest area is one way the government can encourage motorists to take proper rest breaks which can save lives.
“We are proud to be investing in long overdue upgrades to rest areas which will help ensure all road users have a decent place to stop, revive and survive at while embarking on their journeys.”
Member for Barwon Roy Butler says the Kidman Way is a key freight route for transporting livestock, produce and other goods interstate, and is also a popular route for tourists exploring western NSW.
“The Gilgunnia Rest Area is an important part of Cobar’s rich history and the upgraded amenities are important for not only safety, but for tourists and locals alike,” Butler says.
“Cobar has long been advocating for this upgrade and it is pleasing to see funding being directed to where it is needed and wanted.”
Subscribe to the weekly Owner//Driver newsletter here.