Put the brakes on the abuse, pleads TMR
Cook Highway
Transport and Main Roads has issued a plea to motorists to back off the abuse of traffic controllers overseeing works on Captain Cook Highway, saying some actions are putting lives in danger.
Providing an update on works and a move to reduce the single lane sections of the highway to accommodate additional traffic for Port Douglas Carnivale, TMR said it is aware of increased incidents of traffic controller abuse and red-light runners at the roadwork sites.
“We appreciate the volume of roadworks on the region’s critical routes and associated traffic impacts is frustrating for road users,’’ a statement from TMR says.
“There have been attempts by motorists to ignore road closures and the directions of traffic controllers. This behaviour puts everyone in danger.
“It is illegal to ignore signage and the direction of traffic controllers. TMR will pass on the details of those vehicles which do so to the police.
“Safety is TMR's first priority. There is no excuse for traffic controller abuse.’’The advice included a plea to consider that road crew members drive and work on the same roads as all motorists and deserve to get home safely to their family at the end of their day.
“We urge motorists to slow down, stay alert, drive to conditions and obey directions for roadworkers and traffic controllers to help ensure we all get home safely to our families,’’ they said.
Acknowledging the importance of the upcoming Port Douglas Carnivale for the local community and the increased traffic volumes anticipated over the course of the weekend, TMR’s contractor will reduce the number of single-lane closure sites actively being worked. This will take effect between May 22 and May 24, 2026, inclusive.
There will be two sites under 24/7 traffic control, down from the normal six sites, with reduced speed limits and single-lane closures which are essential to safely manage traffic flows, protect road users, workers, plant and equipment.