‘No stopping’ and car park signs to be installed near Mowbray Bridge to warn croc-spotting drivers
NEW SIGNS
Newsport readers’ concerns about drivers endangering others by slowing down and even stopping on the Mowbray River bridge have led to the state Transport & Main Roads Dept (TMR) agreeing to install further signage.
Our readers reacted to our story last week on how there had been several potentially disastrous near misses on the bridge, caused by drivers slowing or stopping to spot crocodiles or to let their passengers do so.
On our Facebook page, many readers suggested some sort of signage.
“I don’t understand….I was one of those, (if there wasn’t any traffic behind me), that would slow down but last year, they built a car park and walk way to actually, stop and walk to a look out, which is awesome,” one post said.
“I went there the other day to show my son, the two crocs basking in the rain. There is no excuse now to ever slow down to look. Maybe they need to erect a sign both ways, depicting a picture of a lookout with a Croc, for Croc spotting.”
Others believed the problem was mainly caused by sightseers – or at least, their guides.
“Yep tour operators and bus transfers the worst. And it started when they put the viewing platform and signs in.”
“Local airport bus the other day......hazards on, not looking at the road, trying to find crocs for his passengers. For the love of God, use the bloody walkways and carparks that cost zillions!”
To which another responded: “..happened to me several years ago too. They'd stopped in the middle of the bridge and were letting passengers off to take photos. I just sat there with my hand on the horn until they moved.”
TMR responds – with signage
After we sent off some questions about the issue to the TMR, the department not only promptly replied, but with a positive response.
“We have recently reviewed signs at Mowbray River bridge on Captain Cook Highway,” a Transport and Main Roads spokesperson told Newsport.
“To further improve safety, no stopping signs will be installed on approaches to the Mowbray River bridge and a parking sign at the carpark on the southern side of the bridge to guide motorists wanting to stop at this location,” the spokesperson said.
“The signs will be installed in the coming weeks.
“The 100 km/h speed zone through this location is suitable for this section of Captain Cook Highway and the turning lanes allow safe entry into the carpark.”
In the meantime, all drivers in the area have been reminded of their responsibilities.
“Road safety is everyone's responsibility and motorists should abide by the road rules and drive to conditions.”
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