A rest area upgrade delivered by the Minns Labor Government in Outback NSW has been completed, with motorists and heavy vehicle operators benefiting from a more comfortable space to take a rest and manage fatigue risks.
The Gilgunnia Goldfields Rest Area, about 109 kilometres south of Cobar on the Kidman Way, was given a $255,000 makeover to bring it up to modern standards.
A key feature of the upgrade was 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.
Redundant facilities including a non-working barbecue, a cage and a disused water tank will be removed in coming weeks.
To help motorists plan their journeys and breaks, a map showing the location of roadside rest areas is available on the Transport for NSW website - https://maps.transport.nsw.gov.au/egeomaps/rest-areas/index.html
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:
"Long distances are a fact of life for people travelling in western NSW and managing fatigue is vital for road safety.
"Providing clean modern rest areas with toilet facilities like the one at this rest area is one way the Minns Labor Government can encourage motorists to take proper rest breaks which can save lives."
Access to clean, modern rest areas is vitally important both for their comfort and the opportunity to take a short break from driving.
"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 said:
"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. Cobar has long been advocating for this upgrade and it is pleasing to see funding being directed to where it is needed and wanted."
Labor's spokesperson for Barwon Stephen Lawrence MLC said:
"I am thrilled to see the Minns Labor Government is investing in upgrades to regional rest stops.
"This is important investment because we know having good amenities in remote rest stops can be the difference between life and death in helping long distance drivers better manage their fatigue."
