A heavy vehicle area at the Roma Saleyards is set to undergo significant improvements, with the local council announcing it’ll soon begin asphalt surfacing works.

As part of the fourth tranche of the Heavy Vehicle Rest Area (HVRA) initiative, the Roma truck stop precinct will receive works to improve the asphalt for truckies using the centre.

Maranoa Regional Council mayor and Roma Saleyards portfolio spokesperson Wendy Taylor has welcomed the funding announcement, which is part of a $17.4 million investment between the federal and state/territory governments to improve heavy vehicle driver infrastructure around the nation.

“This upgrade is a crucial step in improving the safety and efficiency of the Roma truck stop precinct,” she says.

“The works will provide a better and safer resting place for heavy vehicle drivers, who are vital to our regional economy.

“We are pleased to see this investment from all levels of government, which will contribute to improved road safety and support the continued growth of our community.”

Wendy expects the design works to be finalised in the coming months, with construction predicted to begin in late 2025.

Federal assistant regional development minister Anthony Chisholm says the investment in upgraded and new rest areas represented another important step in the government’s continued efforts to improve road safety.

“By investing in much-needed rest stops, we will ensure that our truckies spend less time on the roads and get home safely to their loved ones,” he says.

Chair of the Heavy Vehicle Rest Area Steering Committee Senator Glenn Sterle says the committee was steadfast in their commitment to keep freight operators and communities safe.

“I am very proud that the Heavy Vehicle Rest Area initiative is boosting heavy vehicle user safety and productivity through new and upgraded rest areas,” he says.

“These new and upgraded rest stops will help truckies manage their fatigue as they work hard keeping our country moving.”