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2002-2025

Queensland Transport

mackay area integrated transport plan

An Integrated Transport Plan for the Mackay Area

ISBN: 0 7345 2520 6

© Queensland Department of Transport 2002

Acknowledgments

The Mackay Area Integrated Transport Plan (MAITP) Steering Committee gratefullyacknowledges the efforts of all participants and contributors, and acknowledges thefinancial support provided by Queensland Transport, the Department of Main Roads,Mackay City Council and Mackay Port Authority. The role of the Community ReferenceGroup was critical to the development of this plan and it is hoped that they will continueto be involved in its implementation. Our thanks are especially extended to them.

DisclaimerThe information contained in this plan is for strategic planning purposes only. It does not commit QueenslandTransport, the Department of Main Roads, Mackay City Council, Mackay Port Authority or the Steering orTechnical Committees to the views expressed or any future action. Dissemination of this information indicatesonly that issues are under consideration or that issues have been raised for public information and discussion,,and that Government policy is yet to be finalised. Neither the Queensland Government nor any of theorganisations constituting the Steering or Technical Committees accept any liability for any actions taken bythird parties on the basis of information in this plan.

1mackay area integrated transport plan

Foreword

Sustainable growth of the Mackay urbanarea is paramount to the Whitsunday,Hinterland and Mackay region (WHAM)and to the state. Provision of adequatetransport infrastructure and services iscritical to achieve employment,commercial, industrial and tourismoutcomes for the area.

The Queensland Government, Mackay CityCouncil and Mackay Port Authority arecommitted to generating jobs andprosperity in the area. The development ofthe Mackay Area Integrated Transport Plansupports this commitment to regionaldevelopment. The Plan supportsgovernment’s priority towards buildingQueensland’s regions. It also supportsMackay City Council’s priorities for thecommunity’s future: enhancing itslifestyle, driving economic development,focusing on ecological sustainability,undertaking quality strategic planning andeffectively delivering infrastructure.

A partnership approach was adopted todevelop the Mackay Area IntegratedTransport Plan to ensure commitment toagreed outcomes. Extensive consultationwith key interest groups, organisations,business, industry, government agenciesand the general community contributedtowards the formulation of transportationoutcomes for the Mackay area. Theseoutcomes will support economic growth,mobility, safety, livability, communitywellbeing and environmentalresponsibility.

The Mackay Area Integrated TransportPlan provides a comprehensive frameworkfor future development of the transportnetwork and services over the next 25years. The Plan provides a holistic analysisof the Mackay area transport system andidentifies and addresses current and futuretransport and related challenges. It is aliving document and will evolve withchanging conditions. Some actions are

already underway, while some have notyet been progressed to a detailed planningstage and will require appropriateenvironmental impact assessment andpublic consultation before final decisionsare made. Funding of these actions willneed to compete with other priorities inthe area, as well as transport priorities inother parts of the state.

It is essential that the future provision oftransport services and infrastructure beproperly considered by all levels ofgovernment and the private sector toensure economic growth, communitywellbeing and environmental sustainabilityin the Mackay area. To achieve this, theaction plans in the Mackay AreaIntegrated Transport Plan need to beimplemented in a cooperative manner byall agencies involved. This will requirecommitment from all parties and thecommunity.

Steve BredhauerMINISTER FOR TRANSPORT AND

MINISTER FOR MAIN ROADS

Julie BoydMAYOR

MACKAY CITY COUNCIL

Greg MannCEO

MACKAY PORT AUTHORITY

2 mackay area integrated transport plan


Contents

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Planning for the Future . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Planning Context . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

MAITP Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Vision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Visionary Principles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Consultation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Action Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

1. Land Use, Transport Planning and Cross-modal Issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

2. Road Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

3. Public Transport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

4. Cycling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

5. Pedestrian Issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

6. Travel Demand Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

7. Freight Movement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

8. Aviation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

9. Port, River and Marine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

10. Rail Infrastructure and Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

11. Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

12. Environmental and Social Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

Implementation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62

Appendices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

Summary of Action Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Summary of Recommended Capital Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Glossary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Acknowledgments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

MAITP Study Area


introduction■ Overview

■ Planning for the Future

■ Planning Context

■ MAITP Process

■ Vision

■ Visionary Principles

■ Consultation


The Mackay urban area has a diversifiedeconomy with a well-established andexpanding sugar industry, specialised portfacilities, an established coal industryservices sector, as well as ample touristaccommodation and attractions. The localeconomy is supported by quality transportinfrastructure and services.

The area is expected to experiencesignificant growth over the next 25 years.An effective plan for transport in Mackayis necessary to ensure that the requiredinfrastructure and services are identifiedand provided for in the planning processesassociated with residential and industrialgrowth.

To date, previous studies have focusedprimarily on the provision of roadinfrastructure and traffic management inresponse to increased traffic growth. The Mackay Bridge Study (1994) identifiedthe need for an integrated study toexamine the issues associated withtransport in Mackay.

A study of transport in the Mackay area(MAITS) was commenced in 1998 and anaction plan was developed for consultationas input into the Mackay Area IntegratedTransport Plan (MAITP).

The MAITP was jointly prepared byQueensland Transport, QueenslandDepartment of Main Roads, Mackay CityCouncil and Mackay Port Authority inconsultation with key stakeholders and thecommunity. A steering committee,represented by key contributors, wasformed to oversee development of the plan.

The plan considers all transport modes(including road, rail, port and air) andaims to balance the need for general motortraffic, freight movements (by road, rail,air, pipeline, conveyor and sea), publictransport and non-motorised transport(such as bicycles and walking). It considersthe region’s transport needs in a holisticand integrated manner alongside broaderland use, economic, social andenvironmental considerations.

The plan recognises the need for acoordinated approach to all modes oftransport over the short, medium and longterm. It provides for future transportservices and infrastructure that areproperly considered by all levels ofgovernment and the private sector asbeing necessary to ensure economicgrowth, community wellbeing andenvironmental sustainability in theMackay area. The plan is the firstcomprehensive integrated 25-year plan forthe Mackay area that considers all modesof transport.

As part of the Plan’s development process,a series of actions were identified. It isproposed that an implementationcommittee be established to overseeimplementation of these actions.

As part of the ongoing review of theMAITP, the key planning assumptionsupon which the MAITP is based will beperiodically re-assessed. It should be notedthat changes to the key planningassumptions may require adjustments tothe MAITP Action Plans and their priorityand timing.

Introduction


The Mackay study area extends fromShoal Point in the north to Bakers Creek inthe south, and west to the settlements ofHabana and Walkerston. The area ischaracterised by distinct units of urbandevelopment separated by land that issubject to inundation, resulting independence on private transport for accessand mobility. Mackay’s urban form hasbeen influenced by:

■ the administration of the urban areas bythe separate local governments (MackayCity and Pioneer Shire) prior to 1994;

■ the origin of much of the urban areasbeing converted canelands. The directionand sequence of development(particularly in the former Pioneer Shire)was dictated by the availability of poorerquality land relinquished by farmers; and

■ extensive land areas being liable toflooding.

Population Characteristics

Mackay has a relatively youthfulpopulation with a higher proportion ofresidents under the age of 15 compared tothe Queensland average, and a lowerproportion under the age of 65.

The estimated population for the MackayRegion in 2001 was 78,400. The estimatedpopulation of the Mackay urban area (for thisstudy) in 2001 was approximately 67,000. The highest rate of growth in the Mackayurban area is in the Northern Beachessuburbs of Bucasia, Shoal Point, Eimeoand Dolphin Heads. This growth is largelya reflection of the availability of land forurban development, as well as its livabilityadjacent to the northern beaches.

Residential Characteristics

Residential land in the Mackay urban areacomprises clusters of suburbs separated bylow-lying open space corridors (which aresubject to inundation) and canelands.Residential densities average around 8 dwellings per hectare. Approximately83% of the available area for developmentis situated north of the Pioneer River.

Commercial Characteristics

The Mackay CBD, which includes theCanelands Shopping Centre, is Mackay’sprimary commercial area. An estimated40% of the City’s workforce was based inthe CBD and immediate area, and there isopportunity for expansion, infill andintensification of development. The MtPleasant Greenfields Shopping Precinct isa sub-regional centre servicing those areaslargely to the north of the Pioneer River.The range of services and activities at thiscentre is not intended to match those ofthe CBD. A major neighbourhood centre isproposed at Rural View in accordance withCouncil’s Strategic Plan. Neighbourhoodcentres will continue to develop at Bucasia,Blacks Beach, Walkerston, Andergrove,North Mackay, West Mackay, Ooralea andBakers Creek.

Business/Industrial Areas

There are a number of businesses andindustrial areas dispersed throughout theMackay urban area and include theMackay Seaport; Paget/Ooralea industrialareas; sugar mills at Racecourse, Pleystoweand Farleigh, and the abattoir at BakersCreek. The Mackay Seaport and theOoralea/Paget industrial areasaccommodate a wide range of industrialactivities that accounts for an estimated18.5% of the total workforce. Smallerlocalised service, trade, and commercialindustrial areas are located around theCBD, sub-regional and majorneighbourhood centres, and in otherlocations conveniently accessible to thelocal community.

An estimated 70% of existing employmentopportunities are located in suburbs southof the river, reflecting the city’s linkageswith the mining industry in the BowenBasin. The Peak Downs Highway is theaccess route to the Bowen Basin and linksdirectly to Mackay south of the PioneerRiver, into the industrial area servicing themining industry.

Overview


Travel Patterns

Travel patterns within the Mackay urbanarea are a reflection of the distribution ofland uses. This manifests itself in hightraffic volumes across three bridges overthe Pioneer River and their associatedarterial roads. Travel to and from work ispredominantly by private transport (92%),with only 1.5% by public transport.

Access to transport facilities is especiallyimportant for those in the communitywithout access to private transport. Theseare typically the lower income groups andthe aged. Current statistics indicateresidents with specific mobility needs areconcentrated in the inner city locations,and those without access to privatetransport in newer suburbs.

Overview (continued)


Journey to Work

Journey To Work Mode Number of Trips Mode Share (%)1996 Census Data

Bus 161 0.75Taxi 157 0.74Total for Public Transport 318 1.5

Bicycle 759 3.56Walk 817 3.83Total for Bicycle/Walk 1576 7.4

Car Driver 16168 75.73Car Passenger 2264 10.60Motorbike 403 1.89Other 621 2.91Total for Private Transport 19456 91.1

Total Trips 21350 100

Other 2.9%Motorbike 1.9%Car Passenger 10.6%Car Driver 75.7%

Walk 3.8%Bicycle 3.6%Taxi 0.7%Bus 0.8%


Planning for the Future

The rate of development of the Mackayurban area will be influenced by a rangeof opportunities considered to havestrategic significance, such as:

■ expansion in a range of agriculturalindustries;

■ development of an alternative energiessector;

■ continued growth and greater exportingof services;

■ continued development of the area’straining and research capacities;

■ expansion of the tourism sector; and

■ opportunities for improved profitability,increased competitiveness and newbusiness ventures.

The Mackay City Council TransitionalPlanning Scheme guides the pattern ofdevelopment in Mackay, providing thebasis for planning, assessing andmanaging land use and development. The Strategic Plan is a component of thisPlanning Scheme, and outlines a numberof broad principles for land use anddevelopment throughout Mackay, in theform of preferred dominant land usedesignations. Each land use designationidentifies the intended uses.

Council’s Corporate Plan identifies a seriesof strategies directed towards futuredevelopment of Mackay, that include:

■ the concept of Mackay as a destinationrather than a gateway;

■ provision of green areas and developedparkland;

■ development of the botanic gardens andlagoons complex;

■ encouragement of public access to thePioneer River by developing andfacilitating the provision of riversideinfrastructure;

■ planning, development and facilitationof meaningful place-making strategiesfor Mackay’s CBD to make it an invitingand safe place for people throughout theday and night;

■ promotion and encouragement ofsustainable diversification, value-addingand retention opportunities forestablished local businesses andindustries;

■ integration of transport and land-useplanning and provision for viabletransport alternatives.

Population Growth

Medium-series population projections forMackay urban area (study area) indicate apopulation of approximately of 77,000 by2015 and 80,000 by 2025. This representsa compounded growth rate of about 1.3%per annum.

There has been an overall ageing of thepopulation and it is expected that therewill be substantial growth in the over 45 years age group.

Residential Development

Most of the residential land in the Mackayurban area is designated Urban Residentialunder the Strategic Plan. The UrbanResidential designation envisages a netresidential density of 10 dwellings perhectare, which is higher than the existingdensity of around 8 dwellings per hectare.

Within each of the residential areas, theStrategic Plan identifies sites for higherdensity residential development. It isintended that these higher densityresidential areas be developed fortownhouses and residential apartments toa density of 30-40 dwellings per hectare.This density may be increased in the CBDto 60-100 dwellings per hectare.

Substantial areas are designated for UrbanResidential use north of the Pioneer River.In areas south of the river, opportunitiesfor higher density residential developmentare more limited, with the exception ofOoralea, where some 110 hectares in thevicinity of the university have beendesignated for Urban Residential use.

Commercial/ Industrial Development

The Strategic Plan provides for a hierarchyof commercial centres to ensure the widestrange of goods and services areconveniently accessible for all residents inthe area. It recognises the CBD as the

primary commercial area in Mackay. TheCBD provides opportunities for expansion,infill and intensification of development.The light service industry area along theriver east of the CBD is expected totransform to commercial/industrial-typeactivities (retail showrooms, servicestrades). Smaller localised service, trade andcommercial industrial areas are envisagedaround the CBD, around sub-regional andmajor neighbourhood centres and in otherlocations, conveniently accessible for thelocal community. A tourist area isdesignated in the Strategic Plan east of theCBD, adjacent to Queens Park.

The Mt Pleasant-Greenfields ShoppingPrecinct is not intended to compete withthe range of services and activities locatedin the CBD. A major neighbourhood centreis envisaged at Rural View, on the easternside of the Mackay - Bucasia Road. Thiscentre will service urban areas north ofMcCready’s Creek. Neighbourhood centreswill continue to develop at Bucasia, BlacksBeach, Walkerston, Andergrove, NorthMackay, West Mackay, Ooralea and BakersCreek.

The Strategic Plan identifies the MackaySeaport, Ooralea/Paget industrial areas, thesugar mills at Racecourse, Pleystowe andFarleigh, and Bakers Creek as critical areasfor the concentration of major businessand industry.

Transport

Travel patterns within Mackay are areflection of the distribution of land uses.This manifests itself in high traffic volumesacross three bridges on the Pioneer Riverand arterial roads. Dispersed land uses inMackay are such that this imbalance islikely to exist at least for the life of theexisting Strategic Plan. The Structure Planproduced as part of the existingTransitional Planning Scheme identifiesfuture growth corridors that should redressthis imbalance in the longer term (50 years).

It is anticipated that the use of privatemotor vehicles as a mode for journey-to-work trips will remain high inthe area. With urban consolidation andappropriate urban design strategies, publictransport and non-motorised transportusage may increase in the area in themedium to long term. The expectedcontinued ageing of the Mackay populationwill result in an increase in services(including transport in the foreseeablefuture) and facilities to support the aged.Increasing demand for public transport inthe outer suburbs is likely to occur as theage profile changes, and the opportunitiesfor the elderly to relocate closer to theCBD diminish. Since the inception of newbus services in March 2000 there has beena 8% overall patronage increase in annualridership for 2000/2001 from 1999/2000,with a 100% increase in adult and pensionernumbers, bringing the total ridership for2000/2001 to in excess of 400,000 people.Freight transport by road is anticipated togrow as industry expands in the area.

Planning for the Future (continued)



Planning Context

The timing of the Mackay Area IntegratedTransport Plan is particularly relevant,given recent, current and future studiesand planning processes in the area,including:

■ Whitsunday, Hinterland and Mackay(WHAM) 2015 Regional Planning Study.This study includes a broad consultativeprocess, with the principal objective ofproducing a comprehensive RegionalPlan that addresses the economic, social,environmental, and communitydevelopment objectives for the region.

■ Mackay City Council’s Planning Scheme.The existing Mackay City CouncilTransitional Planning Scheme has beenprepared in a format that is consistentwith IDAS (Integrated DevelopmentAssessment System) under the IntegratedPlanning Act 1997 (IPA). Within MackayCity Council’s Transitional PlanningScheme, the broad long-term visionprovides a framework for growth inMackay that ensures that short-termplanning strategies do not limit longer-term planning opportunities.

The associated Strategic Plan presentsthe broad land use structure and majorinfrastructure provisions by way of astatutory framework for growth andsustainable development.Council is currently preparing aPlanning Scheme under the requirementsof the IPA, which is proposed to comeinto force in 2003.

■ Mackay Port Development Plan (PDP)and Land Use Plan (LUP). These plansset the strategic approach for futuredevelopment of port infrastructure andland within the Mackay Port Authoritylimits.

■ Mackay Airport Masterplan. This masterplan was prepared to address futureinfrastructure and land use requirementsat the Mackay Airport.

The above studies provide the basis forfuture land use and development in theMackay area and have guided theformulation of strategies and actions inthe Mackay Area Integrated Transport Plan.

Regional Planning

Mackay Area Planning & Research

Consultation

MackayArea

IntegratedTransport

Plan

Whitsunday,Hinterland

and Mackay(WHAM)

2015RegionalPlanning

Study MackayPort

DevelopmentPlan

MackayArea

IntegratedTransport

Study

Mackay CityCouncil’sPlanningScheme

MackayAirport

Masterplan

MackayArea

IntegratedTransport

Action Plan

Planning Context

As a part of the Mackay Area integratedtransport planning process a backgroundstudy was undertaken. The Mackay AreaIntegrated Transport Study (MAITS)involved two main types of activities:consultation with the government andcommunity stakeholders; and technicalstudies including land use and transportplanning, modelling, option developmentand assessment, and strategy formulation.

Priorities and strategies contained invarious relevant government, Council andcorporate plans, and the main objectivesof the MAITS were considered in thedevelopment of the vision statement andprinciples. In addition, extensivecommunity consultation was undertaken inthe development of the strategic vision forthe future Mackay transport system. Thisvision has been adopted for the MAITP.

MAITP Process


Vision

Provision of aneffective andintegrated transportplan that iseconomically efficient,environmentallysustainable andsocially equitable in meeting theemerging transportneeds of the MackayUrban Area for thenext 15 to 25 years.

Announce decision to undertake MAITS Study and seek public input on issues that should be considered in MAITS

Review previous studies and prepare MAITS Background Report

Public consultation on issues identified in MAITS Background Report and other regional transport issues

Develop Initial Transport Network Options and Model

Seek public feedback and comment on initial options

Determine preferred options and evaluate preferred options through public consultation

Prepare MAITS Study ReportPrepare Mackay Area Integrated

Transport Action Plan

Public consultation on MAITS Study Report and Mackay Area Integrated Transport Action Plan

Review public comment and feedback

Prepare Mackay Area Integrated Transport Plan (MAITP)

Approve MAITP

Implementation of MAITP


Visionary Principles

Ten visionary principles were establishedto provide a framework for a futuretransport network and services for theMackay area.

Visionary Principles

1. Integration of all transport modes toprovide an acceptable balancebetween private vehicle travel, publictransport, cycling and walking.

2. An efficient road system thatenhances cross-river movement,providing connectivity betweenresidential areas and employmentnodes, and supporting the status ofexisting and potential future transportcorridors.

3. Efficient use of existing infrastructure.

4. Improved freight logistics, includingmode and route selection that reducesnegative impacts on the community.

5. Improved access for more remotecommunities and disadvantagedgroups.

6. Reduced dependence on private motorvehicle usage through demandmanagement.

7. Compatibility of transport solutionswith the aims and objectives of localbusiness and industries such astourism, and the general community.

8. A continuous network of pedestrianand cycle paths connecting suburbsand major centres of employment andrecreation.

9. Transport solutions that are flexibleand affordable, and balanceenvironmental, economic and socialneeds.

10. A coordinated and proactiveapproach by transport agencies inthe implementation of strategies thatincludes ongoing communityinvolvement in the decision-makingprocess.

Development of the Mackay AreaIntegrated Transport Study involved anextensive public consultation program,with a wide range of activities aimed atseeking input from, and providinginformation to, the various stakeholders.Community input in the Study, includingthe identification of issues and theassessment of potential solutions, isconsidered vital to the implementation ofthis Plan.

The consultation objectives for the MackayArea Integrated Transport Study were to:

■ identify the range of individuals andorganisations within the community tobe consulted;

■ identify issues, concerns and opinions ofthe interested individuals andorganisations;

■ develop a range of strategies, supportedby appropriate tools; and

■ record and, where appropriate, respondto issues, comments and concerns raised,and report back on outcomes asrequired.

Consultation activities have been guidedby a Communication and ConsultationPlan which was approved by the Steeringand Technical Committees. Theconsultation program was aimed at keyinterest groups (organisations, businesses,government agencies and communitygroups with a high level of interest intransport in Mackay) and the generalcommunity (including individuals with aninterest in the Study, who are notnecessarily members of interest groups).

The community was engaged throughconsultation activities such as advertising,displays, meetings, newsletters, fact sheets,discussions, telephone calls andcommunity submissions. One of theactivities by which involvement of keyinterest groups was sought was throughthe formation of Community ReferenceGroups. The role of the groups wasadvisory in nature and members of eachgroup were expected to represent their

particular interest group. Invitations forparticipation in the Community ReferenceGroups were originally distributed to 60groups and organisations from which 35nominations were received. TwoCommunity Reference Groups wereformed, representing a broad spectrum ofgroups and organisations with an interestin transport in the Mackay urban/studyarea. Community Open Sessions were heldduring each round of consultationactivities.

These activities have provided valuableinformation for consideration in the StudyReport and the preparation of the MackayArea Integrated Transport Study ActionPlan. The closing date for submissions onthe Mackay Area Integrated TransportStudy Action Plan was 22 December 2000.A transport industry workshop was heldon 15 March 2001 to obtain industryfeedback, and a Council workshop on 2May 2001 was conducted to address issuesraised by Mackay Port Authority andMackay City Council.

The Mackay Area Integrated TransportStudy (MAITS) and the Mackay AreaIntegrated Transport Action Plan, togetherwith submissions received and the twoworkshops, provided direction for thepreparation of the Mackay Area IntegratedTransport Plan.

Consultation



Activity SummaryNewsletters Newsletters were distributed at critical stages of the study to

the general community and various community locations such as government offices, Council, library, shopping centres and outlying community centres.

Fact Sheets Fact sheets were prepared with a summary of the key outcomes and potential actions of the Study to date. These were mailed to CRG (Community Reference Group) representatives prior to the CRG meetings, and were also available at community meetings to take away and distribute.

Community CRG meetings were held on five occasions during the developmentReference Group of the plan. Each CRG involved representatives from localMeetings interest groups, and promoted discussion about the Study.

Study Update A one-page Study Update was distributed to all people on theStudy mailing list, informing them of the next phase of consultation.

Public Display Public displays were prepared and exhibited at Mackay City Council, the Queensland Transport Customer Service Centre and Canelands and Mount Pleasant Shopping Centres.

Draft MAITS Report Copies of the Draft MAITS Report and MAITAP were availableand MAITAP at Mackay City Council, the Queensland Transport Customer

Service Centre and Mackay Port Authority, and the MAITAP was distributed to all people on the Study mailing list. Closing date for submissions was 22 December 2000.

Media The Daily Mercury published, at various stages, articles about the outcomes of MAITS, including the MAITAP and consultation activities.

Advertisements Advertisements were placed in the Daily Mercury and the Pioneer News, announcing community meetings and calling for submissions.

Street Banner A street banner advertising the Study and identifying the 1800 number was erected over Victoria Street.

Community Open Three Community Open Sessions were held during the study.Session

Community Community responses were received via comment forms Responses included in the Study Newsletters, MAITAP, email, phone calls

and discussions held during Community Open Sessions.

Study Team Contact Study Team members were available to discuss aspects of the study with stakeholders and members of the community.

Freight Industry A workshop was held on 3 March 2001 to establish the existingWorkshop and the future freight transport task in the Mackay Area.

Mackay City Council A workshop was held in May 2001 with Mackay City CouncilWorkshop councillors to work through significant road infrastructure

proposals and opportunities and constraints, in line with major planning proposals by Mackay City Council and its Draft Corporate Plan.

Web Page Information about the Study was available from www.ghd.com.au throughout the study. Information relating tothe Mackay Area Integrated Transport Plan is available on www.transport.qld.gov.au

action plans1. Land Use, Transport Planning

and Cross-modal Issues

2. Road Network

3. Public Transport

4. Cycling

5. Pedestrian Issues

6. Travel Demand Management

7. Freight Movement

8. Aviation

9. Port, River and Marine

10. Rail Infrastructure and Services

11. Tourism

12. Environmental and SocialConsiderations



Action Plans

The Mackay Area Integrated TransportPlan addresses issues that impact directlyor indirectly on the transport system. It provides for the maintenance, planningand delivery of new or upgradedtransport-related infrastructure andservices, as well as supporting an approachto urban development that considerscurrent and future transport demands atan early stage.

The proposed actions contained in thisPlan have been developed in recognitionof the need to:

■ develop a sustainable transport system;

■ integrate transport networks and land uses;

■ plan efficient transport networks toproperly serve economic development;and

■ provide a socially just transport systemand maintain environmental quality forthe Mackay area.

Identification of SustainableIntegrated Transport Solutions

There is a need to develop a transportsystem for the Mackay urban area withoutdoing permanent harm to the globalenvironment or damaging localenvironments. Any transport solution willneed to be consistent with the NationalStrategy for Ecologically SustainableDevelopment. The Strategy aims tominimise adverse impacts on naturalresources and the environment, and toseriously consider environmental issueswhen developing proposals.

The implementation of the proposedactions contained in this Plan will require:

■ implementing procedures to ensure thatthe design, construction and managementof roads, railway lines and other transportinfrastructure avoids or minimisesimpacts on natural and cultural values;

■ ensuring that planning, construction andoperation of the transport systemminimises noise and other traffic impactson residential areas, noise-sensitive landuses and the natural environment;

■ ensuring that nature conservation issuesare addressed as part of the impactassessment for any new transportinfrastructure, and by conservingremnant vegetation to the greatestpossible extent; and

■ ensuring that Cultural Heritage mattersare appropriately considered includingNative Title and sites of heritagesignificance. These would includeAboriginal sites, historic buildings andlandscapes.

All planning and provision of transportinfrastructure and transport systems in theMackay urban area will need to beconsistent with federal, state and localenvironmental statutes and state planningpolicies. These include those relating toenvironmental impact assessment; natureconservation; management of acidsulphate soils; conservation of goodquality agricultural land; greenhouse andother air quality issues; the spread ofdeclared plants; marine pollution; and themanagement of wetlands, fish habitatareas, state forests and reserves.

More efficient use of the transportsystem and infrastructure

There is a need to integrate the Mackayurban area transport network and landuses to facilitate the efficient movement offreight and people, and to cater for needsof industry, business, residents andvisitors. This will require:

■ integrating road, rail, port andmiscellaneous transport infrastructure;

■ integrating land use and transportplanning;

■ promoting appropriate transport modesand full use of emerging technologies; and

■ making people aware of their transportchoices.

Improved Freight Transport

There is a need to plan efficient transportnetworks to properly serve majorindustries, including sugar and tourism.This will require:

■ identifying and preserving transportcorridor options for the future provisionof regional road and rail and othermiscellaneous transport infrastructure;

■ planning transport networks in a flexiblemanner in order to accommodate new,expanding and changing industries,including primary industry, within theregion; and

■ maximising funding opportunities tomeet future demands, particularly byindustry, on the transport networks,especially road.

Improved Public Transport Servicesand Accessibility

A socially just transport system shouldensure that all members of the communityare able to move around to fulfil basicneeds. The transport system must also besafe, affordable, have minimal intrusionon people’s lives, involve the communityin its development and management andensure that its costs are shared equitably.This will require:

■ complying with appropriate legislationcontributing to social justice objectives;

■ recognising the right of people toprovide comments on transport issuesthat affect them;

■ ensuring that the requirements of stateand local government consultationpolicies and procedures are met;

■ ensuring that specific consideration ofpersonal safety and security (particularlyfor older people, people with a disability,and women) is undertaken in alltransport planning decisions;

■ promoting best practice design for publictransport vehicles and infrastructure tomeet the needs of all people, particularlythose with mobility problems;

■ providing a network that offers regionalcommunities mobility and accessibility;

■ ensuring that the planning, provision,operation and management of transportinfrastructure and services fully assessthe social and community impacts oftransport proposals, especiallyaccessibility and mobility;

■ contributing to meeting gaps and unmettransport needs and achieving socialequity objectives;

■ considering and meeting appropriateguidelines and standards for safety andaccessibility, especially for older peopleand people with a disability; and

■ supporting alternative modes oftransport such as cycling, walking,public transport and communitytransport.

The Mackay Area Integrated TransportPlan contains actions for the followingareas:

■ land use, transport planning and cross-modal issues

■ road network

■ public transport

■ cycling

■ pedestrian issues

■ travel demand management

■ freight movement

■ aviation

■ port, river and marine

■ rail infrastructure and services

■ tourism

■ environmental and social considerations

Planning for transport infrastructureshould include a risk assessment of thepotential impacts of disasters and theplanning response should include mitigationstrategies that reflect the level of risk andthe importance of the infrastructure to thecommunity.

Action Plans (continued)



Target timeframesfor theimplementation ofeach action areincluded.

Short Term: 2001 – 2005

Medium Term: 2005 – 2015

Long Term: 2015 – 2025

Responsibility for the implementation ofeach of the actions contained in theMackay Area Integrated Transport Planhas been assigned to agencies bestpositioned to ensure the outcome of theactions. Many of the actions would beimplemented on an ongoing basis.

Lead agencies and supporting agencieslisted against each action include:

■ AMSAAustralian Maritime Safety Authority(coastal waters)

■ City Heart

■ Bicycle Mackay

■ Cane GrowersCane Growers Mackay District

■ DLG&PDepartment of Local Government and Planning

■ DMRDepartment of Main Roads

■ DNR&MDepartment of Natural Resources and Mines

■ EPAEnvironment Protection Agency

■ Industry

■ MCCMackay City Council

■ MCCBACMackay City Council Bicycle Advisory Committee

■ MPAMackay Port Authority

■ MSCALMackay Sugar Cooperative Association Ltd

■ MTDBMackay Tourism Development Board

■ MRCSDMackay Regional Council for Social Development

■ QRQueensland Rail

■ QTQueensland Transport

■ QT(SC)Queensland Transport – Commercial Service Contracts

■ Transport Operators

Land use and transport planning have amajor influence on where people live andwork and how people travel. The locationof land uses influences both travel demandand the efficiency of public transportservices, while the availability of roadsand transport services often determines thelocation and distribution of different landuses. Travel patterns within Mackay are areflection of the distribution of land uses.The existing imbalance manifests itself inhigh private vehicle traffic volumes acrossthree bridges on the Pioneer River andarterial roads.

The plan recognises that there is a need toappropriately integrate modes of transportin the Mackay urban area. It is anticipatedthat the use of private vehicles as a modefor journey-to-work trips will remain highin the area.

The ageing of the population since 1991will require increased services to supportthe aged. Increasing demands for publictransport in the outer suburbs is likely tooccur as the age profile changes, and theopportunities for the elderly to relocatecloser to the City diminish.

Increased use of public transport will beeffected through the provision ofopportunities to integrate and improvepassenger transfers between transportmodes, and improve bus, cycling andpedestrian connectivity and access inexisting urban areas. Improved directionalsignage between the city and majortransport nodes (airport and station) willfurther enhance the use of alternativemodes. This has the potential to reduce thedependence on private car travel andenhance passenger safety.

The Mackay City Council TransitionalPlanning Scheme and the assessment ofdevelopment applications to support goodurban design for future urban areas arecritical to the improvement of the standardof living in Mackay. Proposed urbanconsolidation strategies will reduce urbansprawl and new urban design strategies canbe employed to increase/enhance publictransport usage and mitigate congestion.

There is a range of design standards andguides which supports this approach (suchas Queensland Transport’s ‘Shaping Up’document), and suggests ways to betterintegrate public transport planning andurban design. Better planned and moreefficient inter-modal freight facilities willpromote environmental and safetyobjectives.

Strategies for the Mackay urban areainclude the provision of green areas,developed parkland, botanic gardens andlagoons complex, and riversideinfrastructure. The development of theCBD, which is a high priority, and otherpriorities such as the promotion of Mackayas a destination rather than a gateway,promotion of commercial and industrialdevelopment, ensuring ecologicalsustainability, integration of transport andland use planning and the development ofsound infrastructure funding programs willinfluence the provision of transportinfrastructure and services.

On 19 November 2001 Mackay CityCouncil advertised their Statement ofProposals as part of the plan makingprocess under the Integrated Planning Act1997. Under this process, it is anticipatedthe final IPA planning scheme will protectmajor transport corridors such as theMulti-Modal Transport Corridor that willprovide a future east-west route to thePort of Mackay.

1. Land Use, Transport Planning and Cross-modal Issues


Mackay City CouncilTransitionalPlanning Scheme

The Mackay CityCouncil TransitionalPlanning Schemeincludes a number ofprinciples and visionsrelevant to thedevelopment of anintegrated transportsystem, including thefollowing:

■ the Mackay CBDshould remain theprimary commercialand administrativehub for the regionand be supported byan appropriatehierarchy of centresthroughout the city;

■ opportunities for theconvenient locationof retail andcommercial facilitiesand employmentopportunities shouldbe providedthroughout the city;

■ the communityshould have accessto and plan for, anaccessible andefficient transportsystem;

■ orderly andsequenceddevelopment shouldallow for theefficient andaffordable provisionof utility and socialinfrastructure;


Mackay City CouncilTransitionalPlanning Scheme(continued)

■ the existing lightservice industrycentre along theriver east of the CBDis expected todevelop intocommercial/industrialactivity;

■ neighbourhoodcentres will continueto develop atBucasia, BlacksBeach, Walkerston,Andergrove, NorthMackay, WestMackay, Ooralea,and at Bakers Creek;

■ areas identified forconcentration ofmajor business andindustry includeMackay Seaport,Paget/Ooralea, theSugar Mills atRacecourse,Pleystowe, andFarleigh, as well asat Bakers Creek(abattoir);

■ localised service,trade andcommercial industrialareas are supportedin places around theCBD frame,subregional andmajorneighbourhoodcentres.

Action

Lu1 Ensure that transport issues andconcerns are identified in the termsof reference for all current and futureimpact assessment studies.

Lu2 Consider good urban design andintegrated regional transportplanning principles as contained in‘Shaping Up’ Guidelines, ‘QueenslandStreets’, AMCORD and the MackayRoad Hierarchy Principles.

Lu3 Investigate opportunities to integrateand improve passenger transfersbetween transport modes in Mackay,including rail, bus, air and sea (interms of infrastructure and serviceprovision). (Refer Pt3, Rl2)

Lu4 Guide development in Mackaythrough the Mackay City CouncilTransitional Planning Scheme andMackay Seaport and Airport LandUse Plan (LUP), with regular updatesof these planning controls.

Lu5 Consider public transport, pedestrianand cycling movement whenplanning new and re-developingareas.

Lu6 Improve bus, cycling and pedestrianconnectivity and access in existingurban areas, based on detailed needsassessment. (Refer Pt15, Cy6, Pd4)

Lu7 Monitor population growth andemployment characteristics trends toenable transport strategies andactions to be revised to meet currentand future community needs.

Lu8 Ensure the IPA planning scheme forMackay City Council incorporates thedesired outcomes of the MAITP.

Timing

Ongoing

Ongoing

Short Term

Ongoing

Ongoing

Short Term

Ongoing

Ongoing

Responsible Agencies

QT (Lead), DMR, MCC,MPA, QR

QT (Lead), DMR, MCC,DLGP (Supporting)

QT (Lead), MCC, MPA,QR, DLGP

MCC (Lead), MPA, DMR, DLGP (Supporting)

MCC (Lead),DMR, QTDLGP

QT (Lead), DMR, MCC

DLGP(Lead),MCC

MCC (Lead) QT, DMR,MPA, DLGP

Action Plan: Land Use, Transport Planning and Cross-Modal Issues

The road network is a key component inintegrated transport planning, as itprovides infrastructure for the movementof people and goods via a number ofmodes of transport. Development ofactions for the road network in this ActionPlan considered:

■ the Mackay City Council PlanningScheme;

■ results from the road network modellingstudies;

■ development of a number of roadnetwork development options; and

■ an evaluation of the relative advantages,disadvantages, and broad costimplications of potential transportoptions.

The Mackay Area Integrated TransportPlan provides road corridor and bridgestrategies that address current networkissues and projected traffic growth in theshort, medium and long term.

The development of a responsive roadnetwork for the Mackay urban arearequires a balance between options for theupgrading and maintenance of existingtransport corridors, identification andpreservation of future transport corridors,and the maintenance or replacement ofexisting bridges or construction of newbridges. Transport studies undertaken forMAITS have considered a number of roadnetwork options. The development of theseoptions needs to recognise populationthresholds and key objectives of theMackay City Council Planning Scheme.

Cross-River Traffic Demand

Currently within the urban area, threebridges cross the Pioneer River: ForganBridge, Ron Camm Bridge and HospitalBridge. Hospital Bridge is also known asthe Pioneer Bridge. The existing rivercrossings consist of eight lanes: ForganBridge (two lanes), Ron Camm Bridge (partof the national highway system) (fourlanes) and Hospital Bridge (two lanes).

Cross-river traffic totalled 62,000 vehiclesper day (vpd) in 1996 and is projected to

reach around 90,000 vpd by 2015 and100,000 vpd by 2025. The projected trafficgrowth rate of 2.3% p.a. until 2015 isbased on the predicted rate of developmentthat is likely to occur in the northern partsof the Mackay urban area. A lowerprojected growth rate of 1.1% p.a. isprojected from 2015 onwards whendevelopment is expected to slow down.

If traffic growth occurs as predicted, theprojected cross-river traffic will require atotal of ten lanes across the river by 2025.The current Hospital and Forgan bridgeswill require either structural upgrading orreplacement during this time.

A range of options was considered toprovide cross-river capacity to meet thisdemand. Some of these options (from eastto the west) include:

■ the replacement of Forgan Bridge (at itscurrent location or within the generaleastern CBD area) with a new two- orfour-lane bridge;

■ construction of a new central bridge(two or four lanes);

■ the addition of two lanes on Ron CammBridge; and

■ the replacement of Hospital Bridge (at itscurrent location or within closeproximity of the existing bridge location)(two lanes).

As part of the normal planning and designprocess for upgrading or providing newbridges, cycle and pedestrian access will beaddressed to allow safe and convenienttravel for these modes.

A bridge crossing (Te Kowai-Foulden)further upstream to the west of theHospital Bridge was considered as analternative regional link. This bridge would serve mainly freight purposes andultimately form part of a long-termalternative to using the current Ron CammBridge. As the timeframe for its constructionis considered beyond 2025, it will not beconsidered further as part of this plan.

2. Road Network



Some of the key considerations relating toeach potential river crossing solution arediscussed below.

Eastern CBD (Forgan Bridge)

The main bridge options considered withinthe general eastern CBD area were:

■ retention of the existing two-laneForgan Bridge;

■ removal of the existing structure withoutreplacement;

■ replacement of the existing ForganBridge with a two- to four-lane bridgeeither on the current alignment or at analternative location at the eastern end ofthe CBD.

Structurally, the existing Forgan Bridgewill require upgrading or replacement inthe medium term. If not upgraded orreplaced, the current cost of maintenancewill continue to increase.

Removal of the existing Forgan Bridgewould require an increase in trafficcapacity of the remaining bridges andsignificant traffic diversion to access them.

Construction of a four-lane bridge on thecurrent alignment would require upgradingat the River and Sydney Street intersectionand would need to address the impact oftraffic along those streets.

An alternative bridge site within thegeneral eastern CBD area would similarlyneed to address traffic impact andcirculation issues.

Central Bridge

The main options considered for theprovision of a central bridge were:

■ construction of a new two-lane bridge(with an upgraded two-lane ForganBridge); or

■ construction of a new four-lane bridge(removing Forgan Bridge).

A new two-lane Central Bridge wouldsupplement the existing bridges and caterfor cross-river movements beyond 2025.All existing bridges would need to remainoperational within the network.

The construction of a new four-lane CentralBridge, in lieu of Forgan Bridge, wouldrequire significant traffic diversion andcould adversely impact on the operation ofthe CBD, especially current plans forrevitalisation. Major congestion problemswould also occur where Ron Camm Bridgeand Central Bridge traffic meet.

Ron Camm Bridge

It is proposed that the existing Ron Cammbridge be retained with its four-lane capacity.

Upgrading of Ron Camm Bridge to sixlanes is not practical. Although the optionwould theoretically meet traffic demandbeyond 2025 , the costs to provide theadditional capacity would be high, withmajor works required to replace theexisting bridges, approaches andintersections. This option would stillrequire that a total of ten lanes be provided– i.e. retention of two lanes at HospitalBridge and two lanes at Forgan Bridge.

Hospital Bridge

There were three main options consideredfor Hospital Bridge:

■ retain the existing two-lane bridge;

■ remove the existing bridge; or

■ construct a new two-lane bridge.

Hospital Bridge relieves traffic flow onother bridges and the approach roadnetwork, and provides access to thehospital, West Mackay and Paget fromNorth Mackay. Hospital Bridge isstrategically important, however theexisting bridge has a 40 kph speedrestriction and the structure has a limitedlife. The narrow carriageway and loadlimit precludes access for heavy vehicles.High maintenance costs, low floodimmunity and the potential loss of thebridge in a major flood makes retention ofthe existing bridge a less desirable option.

Removal of the existing Hospital Bridgewould reduce access to the hospital andincrease traffic flow on Ron Camm Bridge.

Construction of a new two-lane bridge atits current location or in close proximitywould ensure that traffic flows on the roadnetwork remain balanced and localaccessibility is maintained. A newstructure also provides an opportunity toimprove the flood immunity.

Road Network Elements

The road network on either side of theriver has several critical sections that arelikely to require improvements to providea viable network in the long term. Theseinclude:

■ Glenpark Street;

■ Nebo Road;

■ Paradise Street, and the connection tothe CBD;

■ Malcolmson Street;

■ future multi-modal freight corridor

■ Bucasia Road;

■ Rural View – Blacks Beach link.

Glenpark Street

Current traffic projections show thatGlenpark Street may exceed two-lanecapacity by 2015, with movementsincreasing to 25,000 vpd. An option is toupgrade Glenpark Street to four lanes,which would cater for traffic movementsbeyond 2025.

Nebo Road

Based on traffic projections, Nebo Roadwill have adequate traffic capacity tobeyond 2025. At current growth rates, theNebo Road/ Bruce Highway (Showgrounds)intersection will, however, reach capacityby 2010. The provision of a connectionbetween Hume, River and Victoria Streetsand the southern approaches to Ron CammBridge would reduce demand on theintersection and relieve congestion.

Paradise Street

Paradise Street is predicted to reach two-lane capacity by 2015, with projectedtraffic movements increasing to 20,000vpd. Milton Street will provide animportant link to the CBD. Resulting east-west traffic movements in Gordon Streetare expected to increase from 20,000 vpdto 32,000 vpd by 2025.

Malcomson Street

As the East-West Connector project hasbeen abandoned, four permanent lanes inMalcomson Street are required toaccommodate projected traffic. Four lanes(using clearways) are currently provided inpeak hours only.

Future Multi-Modal Freight Corridor

In the long term a multi-modal freightcorridor, following the existing rail line,from Mackay Port to Bucasia Road, mayreduce the impact of heavy vehicles on theexisting road network. Provisions areplanned in the pending Mackay CityPlanning Scheme to preserve the proposedMulti-Modal Freight Corridor from theBruce Highway to the port. The futureneed for this corridor has been identifiedin the State Infrastructure Plan.

2. Road Network (continued)



Mackay – Bucasia Road

Based on traffic projections, Mackay –Bucasia Road is predicted to exceed two-lane capacity before 2015, with trafficmovements increasing to 30,000 vpd. The Department of Main Roads hascommenced upgrading of Mackay –Bucasia Road.

Rural View-Blacks Beach Link

Eimeo Road will approach two-lanecapacity by 2025, with projected trafficmovements of 20,000 vpd. Introduction ofa new two-lane link between Blacks Beachand Rural View would reduce trafficpressures on Eimeo Road and providecapacity in that corridor to beyond 2025.

Works are planned to commence in 2003on a bypass of the Eimeo School, withprovision for a future link to Blacks Beach.

Heavy Vehicle Routes

A number of options to provide improvedheavy vehicle routes in the Mackay urbanarea have been considered including:

■ a Greenmount Road–Alexandria Roadlink or a Stockroute Road – BruceHighway link, around Walkerston. It isprojected that, by 2025, any alternativeroute would carry only between 3,000 to 4,000 vehicles per day and, as such, is not considered further under this plan.Urban expansion at Walkerston alongthe Peak Downs Highway should belimited to retain the option for a long-term deviation around the township.

■ upgrading of the Eton-Marian–Hampdenlink to provide a regional route aroundMackay. This option, combined withupgrading the Eton-Homebush route,would provide an improved connectionbetween the Peaks Downs Highway andthe Bruce Highway to the north andsouth;

■ provision of an additional river crossingin the Te Kowai-Foulden area to providea long-term alternative north/southfreight route which could potentiallyalso link to the Port of Mackay. The needfor such a link is considered to bebeyond the timeframe of this plan.

Further detailed studies would be requiredto investigate the feasibility of the aboveoptions.

Consultation

A number of issues have been raised bythe community for consideration whenplanning the future road network.

Revitalisation of the city centre isconsidered important. It is desirable tominimise heavy vehicle movement throughthe city centre, especially along RiverStreet where a range of boardwalks/cycleways and some traffic calmingdevices are being considered. The impactof any reduction in River Street traffic onthe balance of the adjacent street systemwill have to be considered.

There is a 10-year plan for the developmentof botanical gardens in west Mackay. Thedevelopment of Lagoon Street or a routeparallel to the existing rail as a heavyvehicle route may create conflicts with theintended botanic gardens usage. Inaddition an environmental park is beingconsidered to improve the northernentrance to the CBD. A Hume Street linkto Victoria Street and River Street couldprovide access to this area.

Preservation of green corridors alongParadise, George and Evans Streets, isconsidered a high priority.

Consultation with the freight industryindicated that the current road network isgenerally acceptable. The main freightroute to the Port is from Nebo Road acrossRon Camm Bridge via Sams Road,Malcomson Street and Harbour Road. Thefreight industry indicated that the route isacceptable for the short to medium-term,providing that critical sections such asMalcomson Street are upgraded toadequately cater for heavy vehiclemovements in the near future.

In the long term, a heavy vehicle route tothe west of the railway joining toSugarshed Road, Heaths Road, Sams Roadand Malcomson Street to access the portshould be considered. There is a generalpreference for a heavy vehicle route to the

west of the existing rail line for the north-south movements and use of themulti-modal corridor in the long term forthe east-west movements. Delivery ofmedium- to long-term options will dependon funding availability and benefits ofsuch routes.

Recommended Road Network Strategy

A road network strategy was developed,taking into consideration existing andprojected traffic movements that mayresult from expected growth and land uses,the availability of funding for roadinfrastructure and the community’s futuredevelopment objectives for the area.Because of the range of planning optionsidentified for each of a number of networkelements (existing and future), a series ofstaging options is required. The timelinefor planning and delivery of cross-rivercapacity needs to focus on potential keytriggers (i.e. traffic volumes) based ondemand for additional lanes, currentinfrastructure condition and potentialimpact of loss of a particular bridge.

The critical elements of the recommendedroad network strategy for the Mackay areaare:

■ Replacement of Forgan Bridge should beplanned to coincide with the end of theanticipated structural life of the bridge.A four-lane structure should be providedas either a replacement for ForganBridge or construct a new bridge.Planning should commence in the shortterm and include a detailed study toaddress overall capacity and the stagedimplementation of cross-river solutions.The study should also considerintersection and approach road impactsat the approaches to each existing andpotential future bridge.

■ The disused railway corridor sectionfrom Shakespeare Street to Juliet Streetis no longer required for future transportuse but should be retained as ‘OpenSpace’. The section from Alfred Street toShakespeare Street needs to remain'subject to QT assessment for a futuretransport corridor'.

■ A Central Bridge should not be providedas it may adversely impact on thevitality of the CBD due to through trafficintrusion and resultant congestion, aswell as social and environmental impactson the northern approach.

■ Hospital Bridge should be replaced at theend of the structural life of the bridge.Replacement should occur on either thecurrent alignment or in close proximityprior to the combined traffic volumes onHospital Bridge and Ron Camm Bridgeexceeding 45,000 vpd. Planning needs tobe undertaken in the short term due tothe risk of the loss of the bridge during a flood event.

■ The Hume Street connection from thesouthern approach of Ron Camm Bridgeto River Street / Victoria Street andHume Street should be constructed whenthe Nebo Road / Gordon Streetintersection reaches capacity. This willmaximise the traffic carrying capacity of the Ron Camm Bridge approaches, inaddition to alleviating congestion atNebo Road and Milton/Gordon Streetintersections. Planning should commencein the short term.

■ Malcomson Street should be upgraded toa higher standard four-lane facility asthe main freight corridor through NorthMackay for the medium term. Planningshould commence in the short term.

■ Upgrading of Mackay-Bucasia Roadshould continue to accommodateincreasing traffic.

■ The western north-south freight route (Te Kowai - Foulden) does not warrantfurther investigation within thetimeframe of this Plan.

■ The multi-modal freight corridor is thepreferred freight route to Mackay Port inthe long term. The state governmentshould retain the road corridor land forthe section of the multi-modal freightcorridor between Mackay Port andBucasia Road.




■ The preservation of the corridor west ofMackay - Bucasia Road to the BruceHighway is to be included as part of theMackay City Council Planning Scheme,to protect the corridor from encroachingdevelopment.

■ The total corridor from the Mackay Portto the Bruce Highway is to be the subjectof a corridor management plan topreserve the corridor from encroachmentby incompatible and noise-sensitivedevelopment.

Mackay Road Network



Action

Rd1 Commence planning for the replacement ofForgan and Hospital bridges to address cross-rivercapacity, including consideration of approach andmajor intersection requirements and cycle andpedestrian access.

Rd2 Inform QR of the required status of the disusedrailway land from Alfred Street to Juliet Street.■ Alfred to Shakespeare Street - subject to QT

assessment for a future transport corridor;■ Shakespeare to Juliet Street - not required for

future transport purposes.

Rd3 Undertake detailed urban road planning studies toaddress capacity issues associated with:■ Glenpark Street;■ Nebo Road, including intersections;■ Hume to Victoria/River Street link;■ Paradise Street;■ Bruce Highway north of Sams Road;■ Malcomson Street; and■ Rural View to Blacks Beach link.

Rd4 Undertake detailed investigations into theprovision of alternative freight routes around thegreater Mackay urban area to address the impactsof through transport of freight. (Refer Fr8)

Rd5 Preserve the existing multi-modal freight corridorbetween Bucasia Road and the port. Manage theimpacts on the retained multi-modal freightcorridor land, including resolving currentconflicting uses as soon as practicable.

Rd6 Preserve land for the multi-modal corridorbetween the Bruce Highway and Mackay – BucasiaRoad through the Mackay City Planning Scheme.

Rd7 Develop a management plan for the multi-modalfreight corridor, including resolution of therequired land tenure envelope to accommodatethe MMFC, a strategy for acquisition of thoseparts of that envelope not currently controlled bythe state, and termination of interim use ofcorridor land for any potential conflicting use.

Rd8 Continue to manage the road network through:■ maintaining road safety standards that are

responsive to local needs;■ reviewing traffic signal phasing to reduce delays;■ maintaining road signage in accordance with

local and state standards;■ maintaining the road asset; and■ undertaking road safety audits to consider the

needs of all road users.

Timing

Short Term

Short Term

Medium TermMedium TermMedium TermMedium TermMedium TermShort TermMedium Term

Long Term

Short Term

Short Term

Short Term,Ongoing

Ongoing

Lead Agencies

DMR

QT

MCC*DMR*DMR/MCCMCCDMRDMRDMR/MCC

DMR, MCC

DMR, MPAMCC,

DMR, MPA,MCC

DMR

DMR, MCC*

Other Agencies

MCC

DMR, MCC

QT

QR, QT, DNR&M

QT, QR,DNR&M

QT, MCC,MPA, QR

* Main Roads is lead agency for state controlled roads; Mackay City Council is lead agency for council roads

Action Plan: Road Network


Description of Work

CRd1 Commence planning for the replacement ofForgan and Hospital Bridges to address cross-river capacity, including consideration ofapproach and major intersection requirements.

CRd2 Undertake detailed urban road planning studiesto address capacity issues associated with:■ Glenpark Street;■ Nebo Road, including intersections;■ Hume Street/River Street link;■ Paradise Street;■ Bruce Highway north of Sams Road;■ Malcolmson Street; and■ Rural View to Blacks Beach link.

CRd3 Undertake detailed investigations into theprovision of alternative road network routes toaddress the impacts of through transport offreight. (Refer Fr8)

CRd4 Upgrade Mackay – Bucasia Road (intersections)and Eimeo Road deviation

CRd5 Upgrade Mackay – Bucasia Road (4 lanes) andrail overpass and interchange at Habana Road

CRd6 Upgrade Bruce Hwy/Bucasia Rd intersection.

CRd7 Continue to manage the road network including:■ maintaining road safety standards that are

responsive to local needs;■ reviewing traffic signal phasing to reduce

delays;■ maintaining road signage in accordance with

local and state standards;■ maintaining the road asset; and■ undertaking road safety audits.

Timing(Term)

Short

MediumMediumMediumMediumMediumShortMedium

Long

Short

Medium

Long

Ongoing

Order of Cost

$200k

TBD$50K$100KTBD$50K$80KTBD

$150K

$12M

$23M

$5M

$3.4 m/yr

Lead Agency

DMR

MCCDMRDMR/MCCMCCDMRDMRMCC

DMR, MCC

DMR

DMR

DMR

DMR

FundingStatus

Funded

UnfundedUnfundedUnfundedUnfundedUnfundedFundedUnfunded

Unfunded

$3.9MFunded*

Unfunded

Unfunded

Funded

Capital Program: Road Network

* Approved allocation in 2001/02 to 2005/6 RIP

Roads Implementation Program 2001/02 – 2005/06


Approved Program Years 1 and 21. Mackay-Habana Rd – Widen existing pavement2. Mackay-Bucasia Rd – At-grade intersection improvement3. Mackay-Bucasia Rd – Construct roundabout4. Mackay-Slade Point Rd – Pavement rehabilitation5. Mackay-Slade Point Rd – Pavement rehabilitation6. Rockleigh-North Mackay Rd – Transport study7. Mackay-Slade Point Rd – Bridge repairs8. Mackay Bypass Rd – Bridge repairs9. Mackay-Eungella Rd – Widen existing pavement10. Maraju-Yakapari Rd – Pave and seal

Indicative Program Years 3 to 51. Mackay-Bucasia Rd – At-grade intersection improvement2. Mackay-Bucasia Rd – At-grade intersection improvement3. Mackay-Bucasia Rd – At-grade intersection improvement4. Peak Downs Hway – Pavement rehabilitation5. Peak Downs Hway – Pavement rehabilitation6. Bruce Hway – Realignment of 2 lanes7. Yakapari-Seaforth Rd – Shoulder widening and sealing

1

2

3

4

5

7

6

89

10

1

2

3

4

5

6

7


3. Public Transport

Private vehicles are the main means bywhich people, goods and services aretransported in the Mackay urban area.However, not all residents in Mackay haveaccess to a car, or can afford to own oroperate a private vehicle. Public transporthas major social benefits in the provisionof transport for those who do not haveaccess to private vehicles, including theyoung and the elderly. Passenger andpublic transport in Mackay is required to:

■ help meet the accessibility and mobilityneeds of residents and efficiently servelocal communities;

■ better cater for transport needs of peoplewith mobility and /or other special needs(including parents with prams); and

■ provide adequate passenger transportlinkages to the rest of the state.

Public transport currently available in theMackay area includes:

■ suburban public buses;

■ school buses;

■ long-distance coaches;

■ taxis; and

■ Mackay’s taxi transit system.

The taxi transit system provides forshopping centre/ CBD transport at a costsimilar to public buses.

Marketing and education can play animportant role in improving patronage ofthe bus service. Queensland Transport isdeveloping a number of statewideinitiatives to increase levels of publictransport usage. These include:

■ TravelSmart – a community-basedprogramme that involves groups andorganisations in activities to encouragemore use of public transport, walkingand cycling; and

■ school-based projects – such as thedevelopment of a public transportmodule in the school syllabus and aprimary and secondary schoolcompetition to develop media and visualarts materials on TravelSmart issues.

Existing Public Transport Services

Scheduled Route Bus Service

Operator Mackay Transit CoachesNo. of routes 11Estimated vkms p.a. (,ooo) 243Est. peak buses 3Service features Radial, with loop services, ‘Hail and

Ride’, ‘through running’ services, fare integration and ‘day rover’ tickets. 50% of services wheelchair accessible

School Bus Services

No. of routes 47Estimated vkms p.a. (,ooo) 530No. of students 2,200

Taxi Services

Standard taxis 52Accessible taxis 9Total 61

Community Transport Services

No. of community vehicles 6No. of community / courtesy vehicles 6Total 12

Note: Taxi contract supplements the route bus services

Professional marketing support also isprovided to local scheduled service busoperators by Queensland Transportthrough the Local Operator MarketingAssistance Plan (LOMAP). The objectivesof LOMAP are:

■ to assist local operators to market theirservices;

■ to raise public awareness of local publictransport services, particularly inregional Queensland;

■ to increase public transport patronage;

■ to increase the level of marketing skillsindustry; and

■ to progress the mutual goals ofgovernment, industry and thecommunity, including improvedefficiency and frequency of service.

The needs of people with mobilityimpairment in Mackay are partly met bypurpose-built accessible taxis andcommunity transport vehicles. Low-floorwheelchair accessible buses operate on75% of urban and 100% of NorthernBeaches service routes.

Intermodal interchange facilities are notcurrently available in Mackay.

Opportunities exist at locations jointlyserved by fixed bus routes and the taxitransit system (eg Canelands ShoppingCentre and the Mackay CBD).

Queensland Transport, in conjunction withMackay City Council, have commenced apublic transport study to assess currentand future public transport needs for theMackay area.

Bus services are currently not provided toeither the airport or the railway station.

The existing use of public transport isapproximately 1.5% of all trips, butprojections indicate that public transportdemand is likely to increase to 5% of alltrips by 2025. The greatest demand will bebetween the CBD and areas south of thePioneer River, Mt Pleasant and Andergrovein the north, and the Northern Beaches.Queensland Transport has recentlyintroduced new bus routes in Mackay, withservices at 60 – 90 minute intervals towithin 400m of 85% of residents. Servicesto the Northern Beaches have beenincreased from weekly to daily, as well asservices to Walkerston, Sarina and Mirani.Improvement of information and review ofservices is a major part of the actionsidentified in this action plan.

3. Public Transport (continued)


Comments raised inConsultation

Community feedbackindicated thatresidents place a high priority on themaintenance andupgrading of theexisting publictransport network.Issues relating topublic transport raised in consultationincluded:

■ the provision ofadditional andimproved publictransport servicesand facilitiesspecifically:

■ to Northern Beaches;

■ to hospitals;

■ bus/rail connections;

■ airport/ city shuttle;

■ rail/ city shuttle;

■ Mt Pleasant,Canelands, City andNorth Mackay;

■ additional schoolservices;


Comments raised in Consultation(continued)

■ improved physicalaccess to publictransport vehicles,including taxi andbuses forhandicapped peopleand those withspecial mobilityneeds;

■ location of taxi ranksand holding bays;

■ the need forimproved access forpedestrians andcyclists to publictransport to bereflected in planningand design;

■ improved publictransport serviceinformation;

■ issues associatedwith ticketing costsand concessions;

■ the potential for theuse of light rail inthe future;

■ the potential for theuse of mini-buses;and

■ high level of supportfor existing taxitransit services.

Mackay Bus Routes

3. Public Transport (continued)


Action

Pt1 Review and ensure the adequacy of QT’s accessibility standardsfor the disabled continue to be met by the public transportsystem in Mackay.

Pt2 Undertake a public transport planning study to identify futurepublic transport needs for the Mackay area.

Pt3 Examine opportunities to provide additional public transportservices, and improve frequencies:■ in the peak period; ■ additional midday services;■ on weekends;■ to the Northern Beaches (via Mackay-Bucasia Road)■ to major attractions (eg shopping centres, hospitals);■ linking the airport and Paget rail passenger terminal to

the CBD;■ to the small craft harbour and East Point as a residential/

tourist development in the Mackay Port area proceeds; and■ for trips with both origins and destinations outside the CBD.(Refer Dm3)

Pt4 Monitor and expand on recent initiatives by QT to increaseservice areas and frequencies.

Pt5 Examine opportunities to implement innovative bus servicetypes, eg. zoned, demand-responsive and deviated routeservice.

Pt6 Seek opportunities to implement enhanced taxi technologies,eg. GPS, EFTPOS and Internet bookings through partnershipswith stakeholders.

Pt7 Examine opportunities to provide bicycle storage on buses.(Refer Cy7)

Pt8 Examine opportunities to increase available information onpublic transport services, eg. printing of route information inthe local Classified Commercial phonebook (PDC), signage anddisplays at shopping centres, and timetable and routeinformation at public transport stops.

Pt9 Monitor public transport share to evaluate the success ofimplemented improvements, with a target of 5% by 2015.

Pt10 Promote, educate and increase awareness of public transport

Pt11 Seek opportunities for better fare integration for the publictransport system.

Timing

Ongoing

Short term

Ongoing

Ongoing

Medium term

Ongoing

Immediate

Short term

Ongoing

Ongoing

Short term


QT

QT (Lead),MCC

QT through servicecontracts

QT

QT through servicecontracts

QT (Lead),MCC

QT

QT (Lead), MCC

QT (Lead), MCC

QT (Lead), MCC

QT

Action Plan: Public Transport


Action

Pt12 Encourage and promote the use of ‘Shaping Up’ Guidelines inthe provision of public transport facilities and services, and inthe integration of public transport with other transport modes.

Pt13 Establish a public transport consultative committee comprisedof local agency, industry and community representatives, tomonitor the results of implemented measures and identifyfuture issues and needs.

Pt14 Monitor taxi share and revise the number of licences issued tomeet current Queensland Transport benchmarks and demand.

Pt15 Ensure that safe and direct walking/cycling pathways areprovided to/from public transport through developmentassessment undertaken under the Planning Scheme. (Refer Lu5, Cy6, Pd4)

Pt16 Undertake an audit of kerbside infrastructure to supportaccessibility to buses (eg design of street and kerb forwheelchairs).

Pt17 Undertake an audit of kerbside infrastructure to enhance buspassenger comfort and safety and security (eg design andprovision of bus shelters, lighting and visibility of bus stops,shade areas).

Timing

Ongoing

Short term

Ongoing

Ongoing

Ongoing

Ongoing


QT (Lead),MCC

QT (Lead), MCC,MRCSD

QT

MCC (Lead), QT, DMR

MCC (Lead), QT, DMR

MCC (Lead),QT, DMR

Action Plan: Public Transport (continued)

Description of Work

CPt1 Undertake a public transport planning study toidentify future public transport needs for theMackay area.

CPt2 Contribute towards local bus services.

CPt3 Contribute towards ‘taxi transit’ services.

CPt4 Continue Taxi Subsidy Scheme to improve themobility of people with severe disabilities.

Timing(Term)

Short

Ongoing

Ongoing

Ongoing

Order of Cost

$30,000

$250K/yr

$105K/yr

$150K+/yr

Lead Agency

QT

QT

QT

QT

FundingStatus

Funded

Funded

Funded

Funded

Capital Program: Public Transport

The Mackay City Bicycle Plan identifiesthe following categories of cyclist: schoolcyclists, general commuters, recreationalcyclists, tourist cyclists and sports cyclists.About 3.6% of journey-to-work trips inthe Mackay urban area are currently madeby bicycle. Mackay residential areas areseparated by large distances and areconnected by high-speed roads that do notlend themselves readily to cycling, exceptfor experienced commuter cyclists who areable to ride with general traffic.

Over 60% of high school studentscommute daily by bicycle, with 55% of allschools having bicycle storage racks.Existing bicycle facilities have evolvedfrom an off-street system, with a total of45 km of bikeways constructed. These areconcentrated in urban areas. Bicyclefacilities at shopping centres are generallylimited, while major public transportinterchanges, including the train station,bus terminal and airport, currently provideonly limited bicycle facilities.

The Mackay City Bicycle Plan wasprepared by Mackay City Council in late1998 and included extensive communityconsultation. The Mackay City BicyclePlan identified a network of bicycle routesincluding trunk, cross-city, district, feeder,and neighbourhood routes. The MackayCity Bicycle Plan identifies a staging planover three five-year periods and includesindicative costs for a network comprisingover 200km of bicycle routes at a totalcost of $3.35M.

While the Mackay City Bicycle Planprovides a comprehensive framework fordeveloping a realistic implementationprogram for cycle network initiatives,policy direction can be expanded further.Integration of cycling with publictransport can significantly increase optionsfor cyclists. This would require supportfrom bus operators, with specific provisionon buses to carry bicycles, such as racksor even trailers. Patronage benefits can begained by transport operators providingfor bicycles. Recognising specific needs inurban design guidelines for futuredevelopment and existing facilities inMackay can encourage more cycling.

Cyclists use many pedestrian facilities,whether they are normal footpaths orshared use facilities. Ideally, where there ishigh pedestrian and cycle demand onfootpaths or shared paths, these two modesshould be separated. In many areas thischoice is not yet available and additionaldesign and educational measures need tobe considered.

While actual collisions between bike ridersand pedestrians are minimal(approximately 1% of all injuries topedestrians are caused by collisions withbicycles), the perceived risk of injury ismuch higher, especially for olderpedestrians. There is currently a prohibitionon cycling on footpaths in the MackayCBD in response to the perceived risk topedestrians. Further investigation issuggested to identify actual risk andalternative strategies that may improve thesituation for all users. This would includeconsideration of existing facilities wherethese modes mix and proposals to developshared use facilities, so that adequatesafety is maintained.

The current Queensland Cycle Strategyobjectives are:

■ Effective coordination and monitoring ofstrategy implementation;

■ Integrated policy and practice thatfacilitates cycling;

■ A quality network of bicycle routes;

■ Improved safety and security for bicycleriders;

■ Integration of cycling and publictransport;

■ Widespread provision of convenient andsecure end-of-trip facilities; and

■ Effective encouragement and promotionof cycling.

The target of the Queensland CycleStrategy is to double the percentage oftrips on bicycles by 2008 and to doublethis percentage again by 2018. The targetgiven in the Mackay City Bicycle Plan is6% by 2010. This represents a doubling ofthe current mode share in Mackay.

4. Cycling


Comments raised in Consultation

Consultation wasconducted as part of the development of theMackay City CouncilBicycle Plan. Thisinvolved invitation ofpublic submissions,school principal andstudent surveys,community surveys and a public display. Theseactivities revealed anumber of issuesincuding:

■ increasing children’sexposure to bicyclesafety education withinthe primary schoolcurriculum;

■ providing total roadsafety educationstrategies, encompassingdriver and cyclistawareness initiatives forsenior students;

■ providing appropriatebicycle storage facilitieson school campusesand other destinationsto support highridership levels andreduce the incidence ofbicycle theft;

■ providing improvedbicycle links to the citycentre for employeesand shoppers;

■ improving communityeducation for cyclists,motorists andpedestrians;

■ improving managementand maintenancepractices for existingbicycle facilities;


The Mackay City Bicycle Plan alsocontains a further increase to 10% by 2015.

Actions for cycling included in the MackayArea Integrated Transport Plan recognisedcycling as an important transport mode inthe Mackay region, and build on theMackay City Bicycle Plan.

Comments raised in Consultation(Continued)

■ minimising risksassociated with heavyindustrial traffic inclose proximity toschool campuses; and

■ addressing ‘missinglinks’ in the bicyclenetwork and achievinggreater connectivitybetween bikeways.

Additional commentsrelating to cycling werealso received during theMAITS consultation.These included:

■ the need to upgradeand widen existingroads for safe cycling;

■ the need to plan anddesign roads whichconsider the needs ofcyclists andpedestrians;

■ the need for a clearlymarked bikewaysystem along mainroads leading to andfrom schools and tothe city;

■ the need for cycling tobe given high priorityin order to reducegreenhouse emission;

■ a need for safe bicycleparking;

■ the suggestion to set atarget of 15% modeshare for bicycles; and

■ improvement of safetyfor cyclists, both dayand night.

Mackay Bicycle Routes

4. Cycling (continued)


Action

Cy1 Continue implementation of infrastructure and networkaspects of the Mackay City Council Bicycle Plan, with annualreviews of implementation of the Plan for the first five yearsand every two years thereafter. The Plan needs to be includedin the Mackay City IPA Planning Scheme.

Cy2 Maintain Mackay City Council Bicycle Advisory Committee toguide implementation of the Mackay Bike Plan and cyclingactions arising from the MAITP.

Cy3 Nominate/ appoint a Bikeways Coordinator within MackayCity Council to oversee implementation of the Mackay CityBicycle Plan to ensure that recommendations are advanced.

Cy4 Promote a doubling of mode share to 6% by 2010 with afurther increase to 10% by 2015 in line with the Mackay CityCouncil Bicycle Plan, and consider the incorporation ofadditional targets as included in the Queensland CycleStrategy.

Cy5 Monitor performance indicators to evaluate the level ofsuccess of implemented bicycle improvements and to monitorprogress towards targets.Performance indicators are:■ kilometres of bicycle routes constructed;■ the number of new end-of-trip facility installations;■ number of rider accidents and casualities;■ reported perceptions of cycle safety;■ reported attitudes/awareness of cycling; and■ levels of bicycle ownership.

Cy6 Conduct regular review of facilities to identify whereimprovements are required such as separating cyclists andpedestrians. (Refer Lu4, Pt15, Pd4)

Cy7 Develop supporting facilities at key destinations to encouragecycling, including secure bicycle parking/storage;shower/locker facilities; and signage and line marking. Includea code for end-of-trip facilities in the Mackay City IPAPlanning Scheme. (Refer Pt7)

Cy8 Review provisions for cyclists in the City Heart.

Cy9 Develop a bicycle education and awareness strategy,incorporating initiatives for education, encouragement andenforcement (including development of a Bikeways brochure).

Timing

Ongoingbefore 2015

Short term

Medium –long term

Short –medium term

Ongoing

Ongoing

Ongoing

Short term

Short term


MCC (Lead),DMR, QT,MCCBAC2

MCC (lead),QT, DMR, MCCBAC

MCC

MCC, QT

MCC

MCC, DMR

MCC, DMR

MCC (Lead), City Heart,Bicycle Mackay

MCCBAC

Action Plan: Cycling


Description of Work

CCy1 Implement infrastructure in accordance with theMackay City Council Bicycle Plan.

Timing(Term)

Ongoing

Order of Cost

Minimum$250K/yr forcapital$125K/yr formaintenance

Lead Agency

MCC

MCC

FundingStatus

Funded

Action

Cy10 Adopt appropriate cycling design guidelines in the initialplanning process for all infrastructure development, such asthe ‘Shaping Up’ Guidelines, AUSTROADS Part 14, MackayCity Council Bicycle Plan and Mackay City Council Planning Scheme.

Cy11 Make provision for cycling during construction,reconstruction, linemarking and new developments onarterial, sub-arterial and collector routes e.g. sealing of roadshoulders, provision of bicycle lanes or separate facilities.

Timing

Ongoing

Ongoing


MCC, DMR

MCC, DMR

Action Plan: Cycling (Continued)

Capital Program: Cycling

Most trips start and finish with a walksegment. Pedestrian trips include walkingto and from work and school. They includetrips for shopping, leisure/recreation andexercise. Pedestrians include people withdisabilities, the elderly, children, andothers carrying goods. Pedestrians can alsobe responsible for guiding others such aschildren in prams or accompanying otherswhile travelling. Wheelchair users are alsoincluded in the pedestrian group as theirneeds are similar to pedestrians.

The existing pedestrian network comprisesa range of formal and non-formal pathwaysand shared pedestrian and cycle paths. A high quality pedestrian network isessential for attracting and providing fortourists and visitors in Mackay.

Pedestrian planning should providefacilities for all pedestrians undertakingtrips of all purposes; provide links to thepublic transport and cycling networks; andensure a safer walking environment.Facilities such as kerbs and access ramps,and consideration of accessible trafficsignal activation require additional

consideration in terms of design andconstruction for disabled pedestrians(including wheelchairs).

The suitability of the pedestrian networkin meeting the region’s shorter-distancetravel needs can be measured bydetermining the pedestrian networks (‘PedShed’) surrounding each major transportnode (for example schools and majorshopping centres). The extent of theMackay urban area’s existing pedestriannetwork has not been mapped.

A pedestrian action plan is required thatincludes a map of the existing pedestriannetwork around major transport nodes(e.g. schools, major shopping centres andmajor employers). This will help developmeasures, increase local accessibility,connectivity to surrounding areas, andpedestrian safety and security. The centresof activity which could be given greatestpriority for investigation include theMackay CBD; shopping centres; schoolsand other educational facilities; hospitalsand other healthcare facilities; and publictransport interchanges.

5. Pedestrian Issues



Major issues identifiedfor pedestrians inconsultation included:

■ personal safety (dayand night);

■ road safety,including crossingand interacting withtraffic, traffic controldevices and cyclists;

■ maintenance andstandard offootpaths or otherfacilities;

■ shared facilities withcyclists or interactionat points of conflict;

■ quick and directaccess to majorcentres includingshopping and publictransport centres;

■ the need forwalking/cycling to be given highpriority in order toreduce greenhouseemissions; and

■ the need to planand design roadswhich consider theneeds of cyclists andpedestrians.


Action

Pd1 Use AUSTROADS Part 13 as the standard for pedestriannetwork planning and design. Aspects include:■ consideration of movement and safety of pedestrians in the

local road network;■ provision for pedestrian movement in the major road

network and on existing/new bridges where possible;■ provision for wheelchair and pram requirements; and■ use of environmental design to assist crime prevention and

personal safety.

Pd2 Observe AMCORD, Queensland Streets and Mackay RoadHierarchy Principles in relation to development planning;including:■ the mapping and assessment of existing pedestrian networks

around major nodes (eg shopping centres); and■ consideration of walking/cycling pathways to/from public

transport through development assessment undertaken under Mackay City Planning Scheme.

Pd3 Plan and design pedestrian facilities for shopping centres andpublic transport facilities to provide for safe and efficientpedestrian connections which promote walking to and fromoff-site locations.

Pd4 Consider bicycle and pedestrian interaction in planning anddesign of networks. (Refer Cy6, Lu4, Pt15)

Pd5 Monitor pedestrian mode share data over time to evaluate thesuccess of pedestrian improvements and to identify future needs.

Pd6 Map the existing pedestrian network (i.e. ‘Ped Shed’ analysis)around major attractors such as shopping centres, publictransport facilities and schools to identify where the networkcould be improved or made more accessible to pedestrians.

Pd7 At the local area level, identify deficiencies in the existingpedestrian network by way of community consultation,combined with field inspection, ‘Ped Shed’ analysis andcomparison with standards.

Pd8 Develop improvement, promotional and education programsfor the Mackay urban area’s pedestrian network to improvesafety and amenity (e.g. landscaping, lighting, shade andpedestrian water access).

Pd9 Develop a pedestrian plan to ensure that pedestrian networksare appropriately planned and designed to account forpedestrian use, origins and destinations.

Pd10 Provide and promote pedestrian access to the Pioneer Riverincluding direct riverbank access.

Pd11 Publish a guide to local walking and hiking trails and suitabledestinations of interest for both local residents and tourists.

Timing

Ongoing

Ongoing

Ongoing

Ongoing

Ongoing

Short term

Short term

Short term

Ongoing

Ongoing

Short term


MCC (Lead), DMR, QT

MCC (Lead), DMR, QT

MCC (Lead), QT

MCC (Lead),QT, MR

MCC (Lead),

MCC

MCC (Lead), QT

MCC (Lead), QT

MCC (Lead), QT

MCC

MCC (Lead), MTDB

Action Plan: Pedestrian Issues

Travel demand management aims toimprove the utilisation of existingresources by encouraging more efficientuse of existing transport infrastructure andservices. As a result, resources can bebetter utilised in other areas (for examplehealth and education) and can improve thelevel of service for all trips, regardless ofmode used. At the same time, the impactof new transport infrastructure on thecommunity can be reduced.

One of the most significant aspects oftravel behaviour to be targeted in traveldemand management strategies is thecontinuing dependence on private vehiclesfor personal travel and the associated lowaverage vehicle occupancies, particularlyduring peak times. Travel demandmanagement measures that can be appliedin the Mackay urban area includeeducation, parking restriction, tripreduction measures and pricing.

Public Education

Successful travel demand managementrequires the support of the travellingpublic. A community informationcampaign can be undertaken to increaseawareness of the implications of excessivecar use, relating this use to the issuesalready identified (for example peak hourroad congestion). It can also encourage theuse of walking, cycling and publictransport. Such an initiative would beparticularly timely, given recentimprovements to the public transportsystem implemented by QueenslandTransport.

Parking Restriction

While it is important that car parking ismade available, the relative cost andlocation of such parking will generallydetermine the level of usage. Demandmanagement related parking initiativesmust be balanced against the real need forparking in specific areas, particularlyneeds outside of peak commuter periods. Ifparking is limited or more expensive thanpublic transport, people will be activelyencouraged to increase car occupancies oruse public transport to work.

Local planning policies generally setminimum requirements for the provisionof car parking through either provision ofparking spaces or payment of equivalentmonetary contributions. These planningpolices can provide a means by whichtravel demand can be managed, eg.provision of maximum parking standards.A review of the Mackay TransitionalPlanning Scheme Policy of car parkingand car parking contributions could caterfor a more demand reduction orientatedapproach, with parking plans developedfor major centres such as the CBD.

Trip Reduction Measures

Transport planning in Mackay shouldconsider how potential networkimprovements could contribute to theobjectives of integrated transport planning.Typical transport reduction measuresinclude:

■ giving priority to public transport usage,cycling and pedestrian movement andinterchange facilities, rather than singleoccupant vehicle transport;

■ employer-subsidised public transport;

■ ride-sharing in company fleet vehicles;

■ peak hour shuttle services;

■ flexible working hours to reduce travelpeaks; and

■ use of High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV)and bus lanes.

Transport Pricing

Transport pricing can be utilised to alignrevenue more closely with transportactivity and/or reduce congestion.Worldwide adoption of congestion pricinghas occurred mainly in urban areas withsevere congestion and limited landavailability. Congestion levels in theMackay urban area do not yet requireconsideration of pricing policies.

6. Travel Demand Management



Communityconsultationundertaken as part ofMAITS identified thefollowing key issuesthat relate to demandmanagement:

■ perceived lack of acoordinatedapproach to parking,particularly in theCBD area;

■ need for increasedservices andfrequencies ofservices for publictransport;

■ need to raisecommunityawareness of theavailability of publictransport services;and

■ current peak hourcongestion on theroad network due tothe high rate ofsingle occupantvehicle trips.


Action

Dm1 Raise awareness of demand management techniques andbenefits. (eg. Private vehicle use impacts.) (Refer En4)

Dm2 Review parking policies to be more demand managementorientated, and develop parking plans for major centres (eg. CBD).

Dm3 Encourage and implement demand management measures toreduce single occupancy vehicle usage such as:■ employee incentives;■ shuttle services; ■ ride-sharing;■ staggered work hours;■ telecommuting;■ promotion of public transport; and■ promotion of walking and cycling.(Refer Pt3)

Dm4 As traffic volumes increase, investigate opportunities for buspriority measures and High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes.

Dm5 Monitor transport system pricing on a Queensland- wide basisand its application to Mackay.

Timing

Medium tolong term

Medium term

Medium tolong term

Medium tolong term

Short term


QT (Lead), MCC

MCC

QT (lead), MCC

DMR (Lead), QT, MCC

QT (Lead), MCC

Action Plan: Travel Demand Management

Features of the Mackay urban areaimpacting on freight movement include atraditional local sugar industry, a majorport servicing local industries, the CentralQueensland mining and grain industriesand a growing regional centre whichservices a large hinterland and coastal area.

The freight transportation network in thestudy area consists of state-controlledroads managed by the Department of MainRoads, local roads controlled by MackayCity Council, heavy rail network controlledby Queensland Rail and the cane railwaynetwork controlled by Mackay Sugar Co-operative Association Ltd (MSCAL).

The sugar industry is the largest industryin the region and exported 1.3 milliontonnes of raw sugar through the Mackayport in 1997/8 from the four local millsaround Mackay (Marian, Pleystowe,Racecourse and Farleigh) and mills inSarina (Plane Creek) and Proserpine. Thisrepresented 28% of Queensland raw sugarproduction in 1997/98. Transport of sugarcane from the farms to the mills is largelyby cane railway (97%), supplemented byroad transport. Transport of raw sugar tothe port is by road and QR services. Asugar refinery at Racecourse uses roadtransport for raw sugar from the port anddirect from Pleystowe Mill, and for refinedproduct to the port. A possible refinery atFarleigh would add extra movements ofroad vehicles because of out-of-seasontransfers back from the port. In addition, a conveyor transfers raw sugar fromRacecourse Mill to the adjacent refinery.Outside the crushing season (June -November), raw sugar is trucked to andfrom the bulk sugar terminal at the port tothe refinery.

There are large movements of molassesand ethanol in the Mackay urban area(currently 24-25 trips per day for molassesto the port). It is expected that it willincrease to 40-50 trips per day to the portfrom the three or four local mills and 12trips per day from Sarina. Ethanol is raileddaily to the port from the Sarina distillery.

Sorghum and wheat from the grain beltsurrounding the Clermont area to the west

and south-west of Mackay are transportedlocally by road to grain silos where theyare then railed to the Mackay Port for export.

Mining products are not handled at theMackay Port, but it services imports ofequipment and fuels for the industry. Freightis transported by either road or rail to themines. Fuel imports through the port alsoservice the Mackay urban area and includeaircraft fuels for the Mackay Airport.

Slaughter cattle are trucked to BorthwicksAbattoir at Bakers Creek south of Mackayfrom the west via the Peak Downs Highway.Manufactured products are transportedacross the city and exported through theharbour as chilled or frozen product.

Other comparatively minor products thatare either imported or exported aresulphuric acid, bulk fertiliser, ironconcentrates, scrap metal and general cargo.

General freight to Mackay is predominantlyby road transport. The major part of theretail product used in Mackay comes fromthe south by road and is dispersed throughthe area, again by road.

Freight projections for the Mackay urbanarea indicate that the quantity of freightfrom the mining, sugar and grainindustries is expected to grow, with growthin general freight in line with populationprojections.

While playing an important role insupporting and attracting local industry,the movement of freight through theregion by road also has the potential toadversely impact residential amenity andtraffic operations in the more built-upparts of the region. Similarly, themovement of hazardous goods within andthrough the region needs to be carefullymanaged. Operation of heavy vehicles inand around the urban area is currentlycausing some level of community concern.As new heavy industry occurs, the impactof heavy vehicles on noise levels, airquality and perceived safety is expected tobe such that freight movements shoulddesirably be contained on roads specificallyplanned for the movement of freight.

7. Freight Movement




Major issues arisingfrom public andstakeholderconsultation duringthe MAITS study todate included:

■ traffic noise andimpacts onresidents’ amenity asa result of heavyvehicles on Mackayroads;

■ lack of obviousheavy vehicle routes;

■ the need tosegregate heavytraffic fromcommuter traffic;

■ the need for suitablebypasses for heavyvehicles;

■ the need for a directaccess route forheavy vehicles tomining districts fromPaget;

■ the need to restrictheavy vehiclemovement throughthe CBD andresidential areas;

■ the need forcontinued access todistrict roads bycane harvesters andhaul-out equipment;and

■ the impact of canehaulage on localroads and traffic.

Key issues considered in the developmentof the freight actions include:

■ current use of Mangrove Road and RiverStreet in the CBD by freight vehicles;

■ noise and amenity for residents andother road users as a result of heavyvehicle movement;

■ impact of the cane industry using localauthority roads for haul routes for cutcane;

■ maximising efficient operation of theseaport and airport;

■ modal interchanges for somecommodities (eg. sugar);

■ development of a user-preferred roadnetwork for freight transport;

■ potential use of the multi-modal freightcorridor (MMFC) between the port andthe Bruce Highway for road transport;

■ development of freight routes that canprovide for high productivity vehiclessuch as B-Doubles; and

■ investigation of potential mechanisms inthe Mackay City Planning Scheme toprotect the multi-modal freight corridorbetween the port and the Bruce Highway.

Freight Road Network

There is an existing road networkpredominately used for freight movementsin the Mackay Area. Major componentsare:

■ the north-south movements from theBruce Highway and Paget to and fromthe port; and

■ the east-west movements from the BruceHighway on the north side of Mackay tothe port.

The majority of freight movements use theRon Camm Bridge, although some sugarand grain movements occur across theForgan Bridge. Currently the major routeused by industry for movements fromSouth Mackay and Paget to the Mackayport is via Nebo Road, across Ron CammBridge, Sams Road, Malcomson Street andHarbour Road. The freight industry hasindicated that the current route should beretained for as long as possible.

A north-south multi-modal freight corridorthat would also serve as a bypass ofMackay has been considered as analternative route to Nebo Road and Ron Camm Bridge for freight movements.However, the low volumes of freight thatwould actually use such a route, especially

if constructed in stages, mean that such aconcept is unrealistic and notrecommended for further investigation inthe scope of this plan.

Considering the results from the technicalstudy and consultation, the strategyrecommended is:

■ Upgrade critical sections of the existingfreight route at Sams Road, MalcomsonStreet and Harbour Road to the port, inthe short/medium term to cater forheavy vehicle movements. MalcomsonStreet should be upgraded to a higherstandard four-lane facility as the maineast-west freight corridor for the short tomedium term.

■ The multi-modal freight corridor is thepreferred freight route to the Mackayport in the long term. The stategovernment will retain the corridor landfor the section of the multi-modal freightcorridor between the Mackay port andBucasia Road. The preservation of thecorridor west of Bucasia Road to theBruce Highway will be included as partof the Mackay City Council PlanningScheme to protect the corridor fromencroaching development.

7. Freight Movement (continued)


Projected Raw and Refined Sugar Movements

SUGAR FLOWS (kt)RoadRailConveyor

Marian MillRaw Sugar/Rail-Port

1999 2822015 3702025 400

Prosperpine MillRaw Sugar/Rail-Port

1999 2402015 4502025 550

Farleigh MillRaw Sugar/Road-Port

1999 2102015 2852025 400

Mackay PortRaw Sugar/Road-Refinery

1999 2002015 2002025 200

Sarina (Plane Creek)Raw Sugar/Rail-Port

1999 2302015 3002025 400

Racecourse MillRaw Sugar/Road-Port and Sarina

1999 2102015 2852025 310

Refinery RacecourseRaw Sugar/Road-Port and QR Paget

1999 3242015 3502025 350

QR Paget Depot

Pleystowe MillRaw Sugar/Rail-Port and Refinery

1999 2072015 2752025 300

126 (1999)

152 (1999)

200 (1999)

300 (1999)

4 (1999)54 (1999)

24 (1999)

81 (1999)


Action

Fr1 Form a joint agency/industry committee to further investigatemodal transport issues associated with the transport of sugar cane and other commodities.

Fr2 Develop the B-Doubles network to provide efficient freightaccess for trade and industry – review current B-Doubles routesto identify gaps and problems.

Fr3 Undertake a review of the transport requirements including B-Doubles, over-dimension, dangerous and hazardous goodsroutes within Mackay industrial areas and connection to theport, railhead, highways and other manufacturing centres.

Fr4 Undertake detailed urban road planning study to investigateupgrading of Malcolmson Street/Evans Avenue to providemedium-term road access to the Port of Mackay. (Refer Rd5 & Rd6).

Fr5 Rehabilitate Harbour Road pavement to maintain continuedhigh standard access to the Port of Mackay. (Refer Rd7).

Fr6 Preserve long-term road access to the port of Mackay, includingthe future multi-modal freight corridor. (Refer Rd5, Rd6 & Rd7).

Fr7 Form a local agency/ industry committee to address the impactsof haulage, for example, cane from farms to sidings, includingongoing monitoring of effects.

Fr8 Undertake detailed investigations into the provision ofalternative freight routes around the greater Mackay urban areato address the impacts of through transport of freight. (Refer Rd4).

Fr9 Assess the implications of trial use of B-Doubles for quarryproduct transport.

Timing

Short term

Short term

Short term

Short term

Ongoing

Short term

Short term

Long term

Short term


QT (Lead), MCC, DMR,MSCAL, QR, MPA, Cane Growers, TransportOperators

QT (Lead) DMR, MCC

QT (Lead), DMR, MPA, MCC

DMR (Lead), MCC

DMR (Lead), MCC

DMR (Lead), MPA, MCC,QT, QR, DNR&M

QT (Lead), MSCAL,DMR, MCC

QT (Lead), DMR, DLG&P, MCC

QT (Lead), DMR, MCC

Action Plan: Freight Movement

7. Freight Movement (continued)


Description of Work

CFr1 Undertake a freight transport study to assessfuture infrastructure and route requirements forheavy vehicles (B-Double, over-dimension,dangerous and hazardous goods) in the Mackayarea.

CFr2 Undertake detailed urban road planning study toinvestigate upgrading of Malcomson Street/EvansAvenue to provide medium-term road access tothe port of Mackay.

CFr3 Rehabilitate Harbour Road pavement to maintaincontinued high standard access to the Port ofMackay.

CFr4 Undertake a detailed investigation into theprovision of long-term road access to the Port of Mackay.

CFr5 Undertake detailed investigations into theprovision of alternative freight routes around thegreater Mackay urban area to address the impactsof through transport of freight.

Timing(Term)

Short

Short

Short

Long

Long

Order of Cost

$60,000

Refer CRd2

$4.5M

TBD

Refer CRd 3

Lead Agency

QT

DMR

DMR

QT

QT

FundingStatus

Funded

Funded

Funded

Unfunded

Unfunded

Capital Program: Freight Movement


8. Aviation

Mackay Airport provides a vital service forthe Mackay area as a tourist gatewaylinking the region with other coastal citiesinto the north and south, and to islandresorts in the Whitsunday area. The airportalso plays an important business role inproviding links to other coastal cities on aregular basis to facilitate business travel toMackay and the other hinterland areas tothe west, as well as handling freightmovements in the form of general cargoand mail. Mackay Airport has a two-runway layout and is provided withoperational facilities that include a controltower, navigational aids and rescue andfire-fighting facilities. Aviation-relatedactivities include:

■ commercial passenger flights andpersonnel ferry;

■ flying training;

■ maintenance;

■ joy flights by fixed-wing aircraft andhelicopters;

■ aero club and private flying;

■ float planes;

■ agricultural aviation;

■ charter flights;

■ parachuting;

■ freight operations;

■ helicopter operations;

■ military use associated with exercises in the region; and

■ origin and destination point for drive-based visits, business and holidays to the region.

Annual passenger volume at MackayAirport has increased by an average of2.5% per annum over the last 10 years.The aircraft movements associated withpassenger services have varied over a 10-year period, fluctuating betweenapproximately 7,500 movements perannum to over 12,000. The airlinescontinually adjust schedules and aircrafttypes to more closely match consumerdemand. Aircraft movements are expectedto continue to increase over time.

8. Aviation (continued)


Mackay Airport – Aircraft Movements (1992-93 to 2001-02)

Domestic Regional TotalYear Aircraft Annual Aircraft Annual Aircraft Annual

Movements Growth Rate Movements Growth Rate Movements Growth Rate% % %

1992/93 4,417 14.7% 6,137 2.0% 10,554 7.0%

1993/94 4,582 3.7% 6,612 7.7% 11,194 6.1%

1994/95 4,574 -0.2% 7,323 10.8% 11,897 6.3%

1995/96 4,740 3.6% 7,719 5.4% 12,459 4.7%

1996/97 4,564 -3.7% 8,008 3.7% 12,572 0.9%

1997/98 4,289 -6.0% 7,711 -3.7% 12,000 -4.5%

1998/99 4,210 -1.8% 7,682 -0.4% 11,892 -0.9%

1999/00 4,323 2.7% 7,594 -1.1% 11,917 0.2%

2000/01 5,006 15.8% 8,239 8.5% 13,245 11.1%

2001/02 4,650 -7.1% 5,675 -31.1% 10,325 -22.0%

Annual Average Growth Rate % 0.53% - -0.75% - -0.22%

Mackay Airport – Passenger Movements (1992-93 to 2001-02)

Year Domestic Annual Regional Annual Total AnnualGrowth Rate Growth Rate Growth Rate% % %

1992/93 182,558 14.1% 42,111 2.1% 224,669 11.6%

1993/94 192,797 5.6% 50,631 20.2% 243,428 8.3%

1994/95 209,409 8.6% 60,880 20.2% 270,289 11.0%

1995/96 228,766 9.2% 61,072 0.3% 289,838 7.2%

1996/97 238,848 4.4% 58,524 -4.2% 297,372 2.6%

1997/98 235,504 -1.4% 60,286 3.0% 295,790 -0.5%

1998/99 212,637 -9.7% 55,430 -8.1% 268,067 -9.4%

1999/00 214,298 0.8% 55,203 -0.4% 269,501 0.5%

2000/01 218,984 2.2% 53,150 -3.7% 272,134 1.0%

2001/02 241,470 10.3% 45,784 -13.9% 287,254 5.6%

Annual Average Growth Rate % 3.23% - 0.87% - 2.79%

0

2,000

4,000

6,000

8,000

10,000

12,000

14,000

1992/93

1993/94

1994/95

1995/96

1996/97

1997/98

1998/99

1999/00

2000/01

2001/02

Year

Domestic Regional Total

RT

P A

ircr

aft

Mo

vem

ents

Domestic Regional Total

0

50,000

100,000

150,000

200,000

250,000

300,000

350,000

1992/93

1993/94

1994/95

1995/96

1996/97

1997/98

1998/99

1999/00

2000/01

2001/02

Year

Pas

sen

ger

Mo

vem

ents

Mackay Airport – Aircraft Movements Mackay Airport – Passenger Movements



No specific commentsrelating to airtransport have beenreceived from thecommunity duringconsultation. However,industry andgovernment concernsincluded:

■ the need to protectaccess to the airport(access to freightand passengers);

■ need to minimiseconflict betweenusers of landadjacent to theairport and airportauthorities;

■ the need to allowfor possible airportexpansion, ifrequired, forincreased freight,international charteror demand;

■ concerns regardingpoor existingdirection signage toand from the airport;and

■ concerns about theimpact of airportextensions onenvironmentallysensitive wetlands tothe south.

Main issues affecting operation of theairport include:

■ projected passenger movements andmode splits, particularly relating totourism;

■ freight movements and the split betweentransport modes to and from the airport,and the opportunity for new freightcommodities (e.g. perishable goods); and

■ access to and from the airport.

Mackay Airport is well served by theexisting external road network. However, abetter-defined route from the CBD andvisitor accommodation areas (eg. NeboRoad) is desirable to assist tourism. Whilethe airport caters well for private vehicles,taxis and rental cars, provision of publictransport services (such as buses) islimited. The airport has a freecall taxifacility adjacent to the ranks, and access

for people with mobility and otherdisabilities is well catered for at theairport. The Mackay Airport Masterplansets the future general requirements forland use and airport infrastructure, whileincorporating flexibility into an overalldevelopment plan. Opportunities forexpansion of Mackay Airport operationsidentified in the Mackay AirportMasterplan include:

■ runway widening and extension;

■ passenger terminal upgrade andextension;

■ acceptance of international charterflights;

■ expansion of general aviation facilities;and

■ freight movement of perishables.

8. Aviation (continued)


Action

Av1 Provide a designated road route with appropriate signage from the CBD and major tourist service and accommodationareas to the airport.

Av2 Upgrade/expand airport facilities and infrastructure in linewith the Mackay Airport Master Plan as passenger movements, the capacity of the aircraft and freight movementsincrease.

Av3 Monitor freight movements through the airport in order toprovide improved access and modal transfer where required(eg. transfer of perishable goods).

Av4 Ensure that future development in and around the MackayAirport is compatible with relevant planning policies. Theseinclude the Mackay Airport Masterplan and soon-to-be-implemented State Planning Policy & Planning Guidelines forthe Planning and Management of Development in the Vicinityof Certain Airports and Aviation Facilities, and Mackay CityPlanning Scheme.

Timing

Short term

Ongoing

Ongoing

Ongoing


MCC (Lead), DMR,MTDB

MPA

MPA (Lead), MCC, QT

MPA (Lead), MCC,QT, DLG&P

Action Plan: Aviation

Description of Work

CAv1 Develop airside, landside and terminal buildinginfrastructure in accordance the Mackay AirportMaster Plan.

CAv2 Develop airside, landside and terminal buildinginfrastructure in accordance with the medium-term plan in the Mackay Airport Master Plan.

CAv3 Develop airside, landside and terminal buildinginfrastructure in accordance with the long-termplan in the Mackay Airport Master Plan.

Timing(Term)

Short

Medium

Long

Order of Cost

$19.7m

-

-

Lead Agency

MPA

MPA

MPA

FundingStatus

Funded

Unfunded

Unfunded

Capital Program: Aviation



Consultation as partof MAITS did nothighlight anysignificant issuesrelating to publicaccess to waterwaysor boat ramps.However, issuesrelated to marine andriver environmentsfeatured heavily. Inparticular impacts onfisheries, mangroves,natural habitats andwildlife were recorded.

9. Port, River and Marine

The port of Mackay, the sixth largest portin Queensland, is a major regional portwith operations consisting of receivingand assembling cargoes for export, andunloading and transferring import cargoes.Currently it has five commercial shippingberths and boasts the largest bulk sugarterminal in the world.

It is and will continue to be an importantregional service that supports key regionalindustries. Potential growth of tradethrough the port will be influenced largelyby the export of bulk agricultural products(eg. sugar and grain) grown in the region,the import of bulk commodities to servicethe regional coal mines (eg. miningindustry equipment), and regionalcommunities.

The Mackay Port Development Plan 1999provides export and import tradeprojections for the planning horizons of2015 and 2025 and identifies futurepotential commodities. Issues related tofuture import and export trade areconsidered in more detail in the freightsection of this Action Plan.

The Plan (1999) identifies the need foreffective inter-modal road and railtransport links to be provided to port usersincluding:

■ safe and direct road access, utilisingexisting corridors;

■ efficient rail access andloading/unloading facilities; and

■ pipeline/conveyors for selectcommodities.

The Mackay Port Development Plan is alsobased on the eventual development of amulti-modal transport corridor for bothroad and rail access.

Mackay Harbour can handle vessels oflengths up to 240m and laden drafts up to12m. Incorporated into the harbour is asmall craft marina with a projectedcapacity of 580 berths and provision for afishing trawler base. The marine and thetransportation terminal in the small craftharbour also provides the main access totransportation for the maritime andtourism industries. Mackay Harbour hasfive commercial shipping berths which areoperated as multi-use, multi-cargo berths:

■ Berth 1 handles bulk liquids such aspetroleum, tallow, molasses and ethanol;

■ Berths 2 & 3 handle sulphuric acidimports and raw sugar exports;

■ Berth 4 is a new raw sugar export berth;and

■ Berth 5 handles grain exports andfertiliser and magnetite imports.

The Mackay area also has numerous publicboat ramps, jetties and mooring facilities.Public access to the boat ramps shouldcontinue to be maintained, together withancillary infrastructure such as car-trailerparking areas. The river is also importantto Mackay, although currently undevelopedin terms of pedestrian access. All proposeddevelopments, land use and transportplanning must take into consideration thecontinued and uninterrupted landwardaccess to these facilities.

9. Port, River and Marine (continued)


Action

Po1 Implement the Mackay Port Authority Port Development Plan(PDP), including upgrade/provision of transport and freight-related infrastructure as demand on port facilities increases.

Po2 Ensure that development in and around the port area iscompatible with the PDP, the Port Land Use Plan (LUP) andassociated planning schemes (Mackay City Council PlanningScheme).

Po3 Plan and provide maritime infrastructure in accordance with theQueensland Government’s Maritime Capital Investment Plan.

Po4 Ensure continued implementation of the Queensland CoastalContingency Action Plan (including NATPLAN, REEFPLAN andMPA Oil Spill Contingency Plan) for oil-spill events impactingon the Mackay area, including the river and coast areas.

Po5 Investigate future staged development of the port access roadlink (dependent on outcomes of Action Fr6).

Timing

Ongoing

Ongoing

Ongoing

Ongoing

Short-mediumterm.


MPA

MPA (Lead), MCC, QT

QT (lead)

Within port limits MPA (Lead), In coastal waters QT (Lead),AMSA, MPA, EPA,industry

DMR (Lead), MPA, MCC, QT

Action Plan: Port, River and Marine

Maritime Facilities – Mackay Area

Description of Work

CPo1 Develop the seaport, including land reclamationand development, roadwork and dredging

CPo2 Implement medium-term seaport works inaccordance with the Port Development Plan

CPo3 Implement long-term seaport works inaccordance with the Port Development Plan

Timing(Term)

Short

MediumTerm

LongTerm

Order of Cost

$21.5m

-

-

Lead Agency

MPA

MPA

MPA

FundingStatus

Funded

Unfunded

Unfunded

Capital Program: Port, River and Marine

Facility Name

Mackay Outer Harbour – Ken White Avenue boat ramp

Alligator Bend – Howells Road boat ramp

St Helens Beach – Carpetsnake Point boat ramp

Seaforth – Victor Creek boat ramp

Dunrock – Sandy Creek boat ramp

Eimeo – Sunset Boulevard boat ramp

Murray Creek boat ramp

Mackay Small Boat Harbour boat ramp

Mackay – River Street boat ramp

Mackay Outer Harbour

Lindeman Island jetty

Brampton Island jetty

Facility Location

South-western end of harbour

Constant Creek via Seaforth Yakapari Road

Carpetsnake Point, via Calen

Port Newry

Dunrock

Eimeo Creek via Heidke Street

Horseshoe Bend at Mount Pelion

North-west corner of Small Boat Harbour

South bank of Pioneer River

Mackay

Western side of Lindeman Island

Eastern side of Brampton Island

Facility Manager

Mackay Port Authority

Mackay City Council

Mackay City Council

Mackay City Council

Mackay City Council

Mackay City Council

Mackay City Council

Mackay City Council

Mackay City Council


Club Med Pty Ltd

The Brampton Island Resort Management


10. Rail Infrastructure and Services

Mackay is served by Queensland Rail’sNorth Coast Main Line (Brisbane toCairns). Branch lines run from Mackay toMarian Mill (24 km) and from Erakala,north of Mackay, to Mackay Harbour (11km). Rail access to the Mackay hinterlandis provided by the connection at Yukan(some 40 km south of Mackay) to theGoonyella Coal System which is part ofthe Queensland integrated system servingthe coal terminals at Hay Point andDalrymple Bay.

Upgrading of the North Coast Main Linehas substantially been completed toCairns, which will allow travel speeds tobe reviewed and travel times to bereduced. On completion of the works, theexisting 15.75 tonnes Total Axle Load(TAL) will increase to 20 tonnes (TAL) forblock trains. The railway consists of asingle track with crossing loops to allowtrains to pass or overtake. Crossing loopsin the Mackay urban area are located atMackay and Farleigh.

The Marian branch is a single lineconnecting with the main line at Mackaythrough a triangular junction that allowstrains to operate between Marian and theMackay rail yards and northwards toErakala and the Harbour Branch.

The present Mackay Harbour Branch wasopened in 1981, replacing a previousrailway from the Mackay Fisherman’sWharf, across the river and alongsideHarbour Road. A triangular junction atErakala, which allows trains to access theHarbour directly from the north or south,connects the present branch to the mainline. This rail system is a single track, witha crossing loop adjacent to the junction atErakala and multiple tracks at MackayHarbour.

The connection between the main line atYukan and the Goonyella coal systemallows for transporting of materials andequipment from Mackay to the coalfields,and also for transporting grain andagricultural produce from the Clermontarea. The Goonyella system is a double-track electrified railway, capable ofsupporting 27 tonne axle loads.

The present Mackay passenger station,built as part of the 1993 deviation of themain line to the west of the CBD area, islocated in the south of the City at Paget.Passenger trains serving Mackay currentlyconsist of the ‘Queenslander’, ‘Sunlander’and ‘Spirit of the Tropics’ trains operatedby Queensland Rail’s Traveltrain Group,providing a daily service between Brisbaneand Cairns (‘Spirit of the Tropics’ runsonly between Brisbane and Townsville).Times of the trains vary from day to day.Queensland Rail will introduce a Tilt Trainon this route, which will offersubstantially faster journey times.

On the opposite side of the railway station,and accessible from Archibald Street, is anextensive freight terminal. Rail facilities atthe harbour include balloon loops andsidings to serve the grain and bulk sugarterminals and other industrial activitieswithin the port area, such as fuel andfertiliser. During the crushing season, bulkraw sugar trains run from the mills atMarian, Proserpine and Sarina (PlaneCreek) to the port. While Racecourse,Pleystowe and Farleigh sugar mills arelocated adjacent to or close to the railway,they have no connections to theQueensland Rail system.

Due to the location of the Queensland Railsystem away from the CBD, and Mackay’srelatively low population, there is unlikelyto be an economic case to develop a rail-based commuter transport system,other than the existing daily long distanceservices between Brisbane and Townsville/Cairns.

Future upgrading of the rail system inMackay will be driven by regional (Centraland North Queensland) rail transportrequirements rather than by localrequirements.

10. Rail Infrastructure and Services (continued)



Few comments whichrelated to eitherfreight rail operationsor passenger railservices were receivedfrom consultation.However, commentsfrom CommunityReference Groupsincluded theperception that a levelrailway crossingbetween GlenhavenRoad and Miclere –Farleigh Road isneeded. It was alsonoted that Tilt Trainservices are to beextended to Mackayand there is the needfor preliminaryplanning to beundertaken.

Mackay Rail Network


Action

Rl1 Review Mackay railway station passenger infrastructure,especially inter-modal connection facilities.

Rl2 Investigate provision of improved public transport servicesbetween the rail passenger terminal at Paget, the CBD and theLong Distance Coach Terminal. (Refer Lu3, Pt3)

Rl3 Assess cane railway crossings using the risk scoring matrixdeveloped by the Queensland Level Crossing Safety SteeringGroup, with input from the relevant rail/road authority orowner as appropriate.

Rl4 Ensure compatibility between QR rail infrastructureimprovements and the Mackay Port Development Plan (PDP).

Timing

Short term

Short term

Short term

Ongoing


QR (Lead), MCC, QT

QT (Lead),MCC, QR

Relevant owners (QR or Cane Growers)

QR (Lead), MCC, QT

Action Plan: Rail Infrastructure & Services

Tourism is an important part of theMackay economy. The Mackay tourismindustry consists of day tours, WhitsundayIsland transfers and trips, entertainmentcentres, resorts, marina and harbourprecinct, hotel and motel accommodation,holiday flats, units and houses, andcaravan parks.

Some of the tourism opportunities andattractions in the Mackay area are:

■ its close proximity to the WhitsundayIslands and Barrier Reef;

■ local beaches;

■ Eungella National Park;

■ Finch Hatton Gorge;

■ Cape Hillsborough; and

■ Mackay Marina and associateddevelopments.

Assessing tourism transport needs andpotential actions to be developed requiresconsideration of current tourism planningin the Mackay area and tourismprojections. The Queensland visitor surveyindicates that Mackay experienced thelargest increase in visitors (37.8%) and

visitor nights (13.5%) in the state andthere has also been an increase incaravans and campers to the area(approximately 22% over the last 12 months). The Strategic Tourism RoadsStudy (2000) produced by Main Roads andTourism Queensland identifies strategictourism routes, one of which passesdirectly through Mackay.

From a transport perspective, theimportance of tourism is underlined by thehigh percentage of traffic that is touristrelated (47% to 53.5% of through traffic).The Queensland Tourist and TravelCorporation, in conjunction with MackayTourism and Development Bureau, hasdeveloped marketing strategies to promotethe Mackay Region and actions in thisPlan relate to transport aspects of thosestrategies.

The Strategic Tourism Roads Studycontains actions that have also beenconsidered in this Plan. Tourist tripsimpact on the Mackay Railway Station,Mackay Airport and long-distance coachterminals and have flow-on effects ofinter-modal transfer requirements. Thisaspect is discussed under each respectivetransport mode.

11. Tourism



The majority ofcomments receivedregarding tourismrelate to provision ofpublic transport forvisitors and tourists.Also called for wasthe development ofcoastal access fortourists. Consultationhas identified thefollowing transportissues related totourism:

■ the need forincreased signage onmajor routes intoMackay, identifyingthe city andwelcoming visitors;

■ the need forimproved transportlinkages to touristsites;

■ the standard ofsome roads totourist sites;

■ the need forroadside touristfacilities (eg. restrooms, servicelookouts andparking);

■ the provision ofpublic transport andalternative modes oftransport for visitors;and

■ improved roadaccess betweenMackay and theWhitsunday.


Action

TM1 Support Mackay Tourism Development Board in the proposedMackay Regional Signage Project through formation of aDistrict Tourist Signage Committee to consider the provision of:■ ‘welcome’ and interpretive signage at key access points in

Mackay;■ educational and interpretive signs along scenic road routes in

accordance with design standards; and■ directional signs along roads to clearly direct tourists to

particular destinations.

TM2 Determine the appropriateness of existing designated roadlinkages between the Bruce Highway, Mackay City and thecoast for tourism purposes.

TM3 Consider design requirements for scenic roads to cater for slowspeed environments at points of interest (eg. turn-off lanes) inthe provision of new and upgraded roads.

TM4 Provide tourist roadside facilities along scenic and populartourist routes and destinations as appropriate.

TM5 Monitor and participate in statewide tourism-related strategiescontained in the Strategic Tourism Roads Strategy.

Timing

Short term

Ongoing

Ongoing

Ongoing

Ongoing


DMR (Lead), MCC, MTDB





Action Plan: Tourism


Environmentally SustainableTransport

The development of transportinfrastructure projects must be undertakenin accordance with the principles ofenvironmental sustainability. An improvedunderstanding of transport-related impactswould allow transport agencies and thecommunity to evaluate impacts of specificprojects more accurately and targetenvironmental initiatives. Theenvironmental effects of development anduse of the transport system includepollution, greenhouse gases, noise, smog,land contamination, water pollution, visualeffects, fuel consumption, land take-upand ecosystem impacts.

Transport agencies and local governmentmust operate under EnvironmentalManagement Systems (EMS). Proceduresand techniques within these systemsensure that appropriate planning anddesign standards and assessment methodsare in place to guide improvements totransport infrastructure. This shouldinclude ongoing environmental audits ofthe transport system, programs to reduceand manage vehicle emissions and noise,and appropriate environmental controlsover development. Once transportinfrastructure is in place, operationalimpacts can be significant. Introduction ofappropriate travel demand managementmeasures can encourage use of publictransport, walking or cycling that willreduce the environmental impact andenergy consumption of single occupantmotor vehicle usage. Advancements invehicle technology and incentives (salestax, registration reductions) for people topurchase energy-efficient vehicles will alsoassist in providing a more efficient andenvironmentally friendly transport system.

Social Issues in Transport

A socially orientated transport system isone that:

■ ensures all members of the communitycan move around to fulfil basic needs;

■ is secure, safe and affordable;

■ has minimal impact on people’s lives;

■ involves the community in thedevelopment and management of thesystem; and

■ ensures that the costs of providingtransport are shared equitably.

Public transport services ensure socialequity by catering for all members of thecommunity who do not have access to aprivate vehicle. While it may be difficultto provide a full effective service to allurban areas, peak period commuterservices provide at least for regular dailytrips (work, places of education etc).

Ongoing monitoring of transportaccessibility in Mackay will identify anyshortfalls in service to be addressed. Amajor challenge facing transport agenciesand local government is access to existingand new transport infrastructure andservices for the mobility impaired. Safetyof transport users is also an issue.Measures to improve safety of usersinclude:

■ provision of public telephones or callpoints at bus stops;

■ staffing of interchange facilities; and

■ improving pedestrian and car parksecurity through environmental design.

These measures should be considered inthe design of upgraded/new transportsystem facilities. It is also important thatthe wider social benefits and costs oftransport systems are taken intoconsideration in the development andfunding of transport solutions.

12 Environmental and Social Considerations


Communityconsultation as part of MAITS hasidentified a series of environmentalissues relating to the transport system,including:

■ impacts on air andwater quality;

■ impact of vehiclenoise;

■ impact on fisherieshabitats and wildlife;and

■ aesthetics ofstreetscapes.

Action Timing Responsible Agencies

En1 Develop and implement Environmental Ongoing Each AgencyManagement Systems (EMSs) which consider transport planning and infrastructure provision.

En2 Incorporate environmental standards Ongoing Each Agencyand controls in planning and design of transport projects.

En3 Implement ongoing monitoring Ongoing Each Agency(air, noise, water) of the transport system based on appropriate codes to determine impacts and devise amelioration strategies.

En4 Raise community awareness of Short term QTenvironmentally responsible transport system usage and potential benefits.(Refer Dm1)

En5 Monitor transport accessibility to ensure Ongoing QT, MCCequitable coverage in the Mackay urban area.

En6 Incorporate physical access criteria in Ongoing QT, MCCthe planning and design of upgraded/new transport system facilities.

En7 Plan and design for safety and security Short term QT, MCCmeasures in upgraded/new transport system facilities.

En8 Implement ongoing auditing of safety Ongoing QT, DMR, MCCand security of the transport system, including development of local action plans for pedestrian and cycle paths.

En9 Consider environmental, social and economic Ongoing QT, DMR, MCC,considerations and include appropriate MPA, QR, DLG&Pconsultation when carrying out Impact Assessment Studies for transport infrastructure and facilities.



Issues relating tosocial issues raised in communityconsultationundertaken as part of the MAITS Studyincluded:

■ access for moreremote communitiesand disadvantagedgroups;

■ provision oftransport solutionsthat balance allneeds equally;

■ improved access topublic transport;

■ safety in residentialstreets and publicplaces; and

■ physical impact onlocal communities.

Action Plan: Environmental & Social Considerations

implementation■ Implementation



Implementation

The MAITP considers transportrequirements for the Mackay urban area inan integrated and holistic manner. Itidentifies the need for pre-planning andinvestigations to identify appropriatetransport infrastructure and operationalrequirements. The Plan further ensures theidentification and safeguarding ofpotential strategic transport corridors.Delivery of the actions contained in thisPlan will be subject to:

■ future funding approvals;

■ relevant studies and investigations;

■ appropriate environmental assessments;and

■ further public consultation.

Facilitation of Implementation

Responsibilities for implementing specificactions within the Mackay Area IntegratedTransport Plan have been identifiedagainst each action, with a lead agencyand collaborating agencies nominated foreach action. It is proposed that anImplementation Group be established tofacilitate implementation of the Plan’sactions. The role of the ImplementationGroup will be to:

■ monitor and report on the progress ofindividual actions;

■ facilitate cross-agency interaction andinformation-sharing to support theimplementation of the Plan; and

■ identify and develop opportunities tosecure funding for the implementation ofthe Plan’s actions.

As circumstances are likely to change overthe next 25 years, it is proposed that thePlan be reviewed when significant eventsoccur (e.g. major land use changes) or atleast every five years, consistent withcensus intervals. It is proposed that theImplementation Group undertake anannual review of the rolling program ofactions. The annual review would considerthe need for a review of the actions andproposed timing of actions within the Plan.

Implementation Funding

Some of the actions and infrastructureidentified in this Plan are currently notfunded. Reasons for the identification andinclusion of future (currently not funded)items include:

■ the need to identify and preservetransport corridors to ensure thattransport and development options arenot prematurely restricted;

■ the need to identify current and futureregional transport requirements in anintegrated way;

■ the need to identify critical thresholdsfor design and funding requirements;

■ the need to provide opportunities for theMackay community to understand thedecision-making processes; and

■ the potential to advance reasoned anddemonstrated arguments for possibleadditional funding.

Road Network

Main Roads funding for roads is providedthrough the Roads ImplementationProgram (RIP). This funding includesallocations from the Commonwealth-funded National Highways System (NHS),State-funded allocations for the balance ofstate roads includes assistance to localgovernments for local roads as part of theTransport Infrastructure DevelopmentScheme (TIDS). Funding for roadinfrastructure in the Mackay area is alsoprovided through the Mackay City Councilcapital works program.

As traffic demand grows, a higherpercentage of funding will be required topreserve the existing road system.Significant improvements to the state roadnetwork may also need to be achievedover the life of this program.

Continued provision of an adequate roadnetwork for the Mackay urban area willrequire:

■ a balance between options for theupgrading and maintenance of existingroad transport corridors;

■ identification and preservation of futuretransport corridors; and

■ maintenance, upgrading andconstruction of new bridges andconnections to the road network.

Opportunities and constraints on thedevelopment of these options include theneed to recognise population thresholdsand associated traffic generations, and thekey objectives and strategies contained inthe Mackay City Planning Scheme. Theplan indicates a preference for realisticand cost-effective solutions.

Seaport

Financing of seaport infrastructure is theresponsibility of the Mackay PortAuthority. The Mackay Port DevelopmentPlan (1999) sets out infrastructuredevelopment proposals for short-term (2005),medium-term (2015), and long-term (2025)development.

Queensland Transport through its MaritimeDivision also provides and maintainsmarine infrastructure on the coast and inthe Pioneer River.

Airport

Financing of airport infrastructure is theresponsibility of the Mackay PortAuthority. The development strategycontained in the Mackay Airport 2000Master Plan provides for short-term (2000- 2005), medium-term (2005 - 2015) andlong-term airside, landside and terminalbuilding infrastructure.

Public Transport

Queensland Transport subsidises publictransport through contracts with local busoperators and also provides funding forthe development of transit facilities.Subcontracted ‘Taxi Transit’ services(Monday to Saturday) form part of theservice contract for the provision ofscheduled services to supplement thecurrent bus services (Monday to Friday)operated by Mackay Transit Coaches.

The Taxi Subsidy Scheme is designed toimprove the mobility of people with severedisabilities. The Scheme sets eligibilitycriteria and provides a fifty percentsubsidy on the full cost of taxi fares.Queensland Transport administers thescheme, with Queensland Health assumingresponsibility for the assessment ofapplications.

Cycling and Walking

Current funding for combinedfootways/bikeways in the Mackay urbanarea comprises $282,000 by Mackay CityCouncil for financial year 2001/02, and$170,000 by the Department of MainRoads.

Conclusion

Significant funding has been allocated toimprove transport infrastructure andservices in the Mackay urban area. Costestimates for some of the proposedinfrastructure and service requirementsidentified in this Plan have not beendetermined at this stage and requirefurther detailed studies. Agencies need toconsider a range of issues in developingtheir own programs and need to exerciseflexibility to adjust their work program toaccommodate priority actions listed in theMAITP. The Plan recognises the need forflexibility to accommodate changingcircumstances by not staging anyproposed transport infrastructure andservices until detailed investigations havebeen completed.

Funding to progress proposed transportinvestigations have been allocated in theQueensland Transport and DepartmentMain Roads 2002/2003 budgets. It isanticipated that the participatingauthorities will also provide funding toprogress further investigations.

Implementation (Continued)


71mackay area integrated transport plan draft for discussion and comment only

appendices■ Summary of Action Plans

■ Summary of Recommended Capital Programs

■ Glossary

■ Membership of MAITS Committees


Land use, Transport Planning and Cross-Modal Issues

Lu1 Ensure that transport issues andconcerns are identified in the termsof reference for all current and futureimpact assessment studies.

Lu2 Consider good urban design andintegrated regional transportplanning principles as contained in‘Shaping Up’ Guidelines, ‘QueenslandStreets’, AMCORD and the Mackay,Road Hierarchy Principles.

Lu3 Investigate opportunities to integrateand improve passenger transfersbetween transport modes in Mackay,including rail, bus, air and sea (interms of infrastructure and serviceprovision).

Lu4 Guide development in Mackaythrough the Mackay City CouncilTransitional Planning Scheme andMackay Seaport and Airport LandUse Plan (LUP), with regular updatesof these planning controls.

Lu5 Consider public transport, pedestrianand cycling movement whenplanning new and re-developingareas.

Lu6 Improve bus, cycling and pedestrianconnectivity and access in existingurban areas, based on detailed needsassessment.

Lu7 Monitor population growth andemployment characteristics trends toenable transport strategies andactions to be revised to meet currentand future community needs.

Lu8 Ensure the IPA planning scheme forMackay City Council incorporates thedesired outcomes of the MAITP.

Road Network

Rd1 Commence planning for thereplacement of Forgan and Hospitalbridges to address cross-rivercapacity, including consideration ofapproach and major intersectionrequirements and cycle andpedestrian access.

Rd2 Inform QR of the required status ofthe disused railway land from AlfredStreet to Juliet Street.■ Alfred to Shakespeare Street

subject to QT assessment for a future transport corridor;

■ Shakespeare to Juliet Street - not required for future transport purposes.

Rd3 Undertake detailed urban roadplanning studies to address capacityissues associated with:■ Glenpark Street;■ Nebo Road, including intersections;■ Hume Street/River Street link;■ Paradise Street;■ Bruce Highway north of Sams

Road;■ Malcomson Street; and■ Rural View to Blacks Beach link.

Rd4 Undertake detailed investigations intothe provision of alternative freightroutes around the greater Mackayurban area to address the impacts ofthrough transport of freight.

Rd5 Preserve the multi-modal freightcorridor between Bucasia Road andthe port. Manage the impacts on theretained multi-modal freight corridorland.

Rd6 Preserve land for the multi-modalcorridor between the Bruce Highwayand the Mackay Port through theMackay IPA Planning Scheme.

Rd7 Develop a management plan for themulti-modal freight corridor.

Rd8 Continue to manage the roadnetwork through: ■ maintaining road safety standards

that are responsive to local needs;■ reviewing of traffic signal phasing

to reduce delays;■ maintaining road signage in

accordance with local and state standards;

■ maintaining the road asset; and■ undertaking road safety audits to

consider the needs of all road users.

Summary of Action Plans



Public Transport

Pt1 Review and ensure the adequacy ofQT’s accessibility standards for thedisabled continue to be met by thepublic transport system in Mackay.

Pt2 Undertake a public transit planningstudy to identify future publictransport needs for the Mackay area.

Pt3 Examine opportunities to provideadditional public transport services,and improve frequencies:■ in the peak period; ■ additional midday services;■ on weekends;■ to the Northern Beaches (via

Mackay-Bucasia Road)■ to major attractions (eg shopping

centres, hospitals);■ linking the airport and Paget rail

passenger terminal to the CBD;■ to the small craft harbour and East

Point as residential/tourist development in the Mackay Port area proceeds; and

■ for trips with both origins anddestinations outside the CBD.

Pt4 Monitor and expand on recentinitiatives by QT to increase serviceareas and frequencies.

Pt5 Examine opportunities to implementinnovative bus service types, eg.zoned, demand-responsive anddeviated route service.

Pt6 Seek opportunities to implementenhanced taxi technologies, eg. GPS,EFTPOS and Internet bookingsthrough partnerships withstakeholders.

Pt7 Examine opportunities to providebicycle storage on buses.

Pt8 Examine opportunities to increaseavailable information on publictransport services, eg. printing ofroute information in the localClassified Commercial phonebook(PDC), signage and displays at shoppingcentres, and timetable and routeinformation at public transport stops.

Pt9 Monitor public transport share toevaluate the success of implementedimprovements, with a target of 5%by 2015.

Pt10 Promote, educate and increaseawareness of public transport eg.the provision of a Travelsmartproject.

Pt11 Seek opportunities for better fareintegration for the public transportsystem.

Pt12 Encourage and promote the use of‘Shaping Up’ Guidelines in theprovision of public transportfacilities and services, and in theintegration of public transport withother transport modes.

Pt13 Establish a public transportconsultative committee, comprised of local agency, industry andcommunity representatives, tomonitor the results of implementedmeasures and identify future issuesand needs.

Pt14 Monitor taxi share and revise thenumber of licences issued to meetcurrent Queensland Transportbenchmarks and demand.

Pt15 Ensure that safe and direct walking/cycling pathways are providedto/from public transport throughdevelopment assessment undertakenunder the Planning Scheme.

Pt16 Undertake an audit of kerbsideinfrastructure to support accessibilityto buses (eg design of street and kerbfor wheelchairs).

Pt17 Undertake an audit of kerbsideinfrastructure to enhance buspassenger comfort and safety andsecurity (eg design and provision ofbus shelters, lighting and visibilityof bus stops, shade areas).

Cycling

Cy1 Continue implementation ofinfrastructure and network aspects ofthe Mackay City Council BicyclePlan, with annual reviews ofimplementation of the Plan for thefirst five years and every two yearsthereafter. The Plan needs to beincluded in the Mackay City IPAPlanning Scheme.

Cy2 Maintain Mackay City CouncilBicycle Advisory Committee to guideimplementation of the Mackay BikePlan and cycling actions arising fromthe MAITP.

Cy3 Nominate/ appoint a BikewaysCoordinator within Mackay CityCouncil to oversee implementation ofthe Mackay City Bicycle Plan toensure that recommendations areadvanced.

Cy4 Promote a doubling of mode share to6% by 2010 with a further increase to10% by 2015 in line with the MackayCity Council Bicycle Plan, andconsider the incorporation ofadditional targets as included in theQueensland Cycle Strategy.

Cy5 Monitor bicycle mode share toevaluate the level of success ofimplemented bicycle improvementsand to monitor progress towardstargets.

Cy6 Conduct regular review of facilities toidentify where improvements arerequired.

Cy7 Develop supporting facilities at keydestinations to encourage cycling,including secure bicycleparking/storage; shower/lockerfacilities; and signage and linemarking. Include a code for end-of-trip facilities in the MackayCity IPA Planning Scheme.

Cy8 Review provisions for cyclists in theCity Heart.

Cy9 Develop a bicycle education andawareness strategy, incorporatinginitiatives for education,encouragement and enforcement(including development of aBikeways brochure).

Cy10 Adopt appropriate cycling designguidelines in the initial planningprocess for all infrastructuredevelopment such as the ‘ShapingUp’ Guidelines, AUSTROADS Part 14,Mackay City Council Bicycle Planand Mackay City Council PlanningScheme.

Cy11 Make provision for cycling duringconstruction, reconstruction,linemarking and new developmentson arterial, sub-arterial and collectorroutes e.g. sealing of road shoulders,provision of bicycle lanes or separatefacilities.

Pedestrian Issues

Pd1 Use AUSTROADS Part 13 as thestandard for pedestrian networkplanning and design. Aspectsinclude:■ consideration of movement and

safety of pedestrians in the local road network;

■ provision for pedestrian movement in the major road network and on existing/new bridges where possible;

■ provision for wheelchair and pram requirements; and

■ use of environmental design toassist crime prevention andpersonal safety.

Pd2 Observe AMCORD, ‘QueenslandStreets’ and Mackay Road HierarchyPrinciples in relation to developmentplanning, including:■ the mapping and assessment of

existing pedestrian networks around major nodes (eg shopping centres); and

■ consideration of walking/cyclingpathways to/from public transportthrough development assessmentundertaken under Mackay CityPlanning Scheme.

Summary of Action Plans (continued)



Pd3 Plan and design pedestrian facilitiesfor shopping centres and publictransport facilities to provide for safeand efficient pedestrian connectionswhich promote walking to and fromoff-site locations.

Pd4 Consider bicycle and pedestrianinteraction in planning and design ofnetworks.

Pd5 Monitor pedestrian mode share dataover time to evaluate the success ofpedestrian improvements and toidentify future needs.

Pd6 Map the existing pedestrian network(i.e. ‘Ped Shed’ analysis) aroundmajor attractors such as shoppingcentres, public transport facilities andschools to identify where the networkcould be improved or made moreaccessible to pedestrians.

Pd7 At the local area level, identifydeficiencies in the existing pedestriannetwork by way of communityconsultation, combined with fieldinspection, ‘Ped Shed’ analysis andcomparison with standards.

Pd8 Develop improvement, promotionaland education programs for theMackay urban area’s pedestriannetwork to improve safety andamenity (e.g. landscaping, lighting,shade and pedestrian water access).

Pd9 Develop a pedestrian plan to ensurethat pedestrian networks areappropriately planned and designedto account for pedestrian use, originsand destinations.

Pd10 Provide and promote pedestrianaccess to the Pioneer River includingdirect riverbank access.

Pd11 Publish a guide to local walking andhiking trails and suitable destinationsof interest for both local residentsand tourists.

Travel Demand Management

Dm1 Raise awareness of demandmanagement techniques andbenefits. Eg. Private vehicle useimpacts.

Dm2 Review parking policies to be moredemand management orientated, anddevelop parking plans for majorcentres (eg. CBD).

Dm3 Encourage and implement demandmanagement measures to reduce singleoccupancy vehicle usage such as:■ employee incentives;■ shuttle services; ■ ride-sharing;■ staggered work hours;■ telecommuting;■ promotion of public transport; and■ promotion of walking and cycling.

Dm4 As traffic volumes increase,investigate opportunities for buspriority measures and HighOccupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes.

Dm5 Monitor transport system pricing ona Queensland-wide basis and itsapplication to Mackay.

Freight Movement

Fr1 Form a joint agency/industrycommittee to further investigatemodal transport issues associated withthe transport of sugar cane and othercommodities.

Fr2 Develop the B-Doubles network toprovide efficient freight access fortrade and industry – review currentB-Double routes to identify gaps andproblems.

Fr3 Undertake a review of the transportrequirements including B-Doubles,over-dimension, dangerous andhazardous goods routes within Mackayindustrial areas and connection to theport, railhead, highways and othermanufacturing centres.

Fr4 Undertake detailed urban roadplanning study to investigateupgrading of Malcolmson Street/EvansAvenue to provide medium-term roadaccess to the Port of Mackay.

Fr5 Rehabilitate Harbour Road pavementto maintain continued high standardaccess to the Port of Mackay.

Fr6 Preserve long-term road acesss to thePort of Mackay, including the futuremulti-modal freight corridor.

Fr7 Form a local agency/ industrycommittee to address the impacts ofhaulage, for example, cane fromfarms to sidings, including ongoingmonitoring of effects.

Fr8 Undertake detailed investigations intothe provision of alternative freightroutes around the greater Mackayurban area to address the impacts ofthrough transport of freight.

Fr9 Assess the implications of trial use ofB-Doubles for quarry producttransport.

Aviation

Av1 Provide a designated road route withappropriate signage from the CBDand major tourist service andaccommodation areas to the airport.

Av2 Upgrade/expand airport facilities andinfrastructure in line with theMackay Airport Master Plan aspassenger movements, the capacityof the aircraft and freight movementsincrease.

Av3 Monitor freight movements throughthe airport in order to provideimproved access and modal transferwhere required (eg. transfer ofperishable goods).

Av4 Ensure that future development inand around the Mackay Airport iscompatible with relevant planningpolicies. These include the MackayAirport Masterplan and soon-to-be-implemented State Planning Policy andPlanning Guidelines for the Planningand Management of Development inthe Vicinity of Certain Airports andAviation Facilities, and Mackay CityPlanning Scheme.

Port, River and Marine

Po1 Implement the Mackay Port AuthorityPort Development Plan (PDP),including upgrade/provision oftransport and freight-relatedinfrastructure as demand on portfacilities increases.

Po2 Ensure that development in andaround the port area is compatiblewith the PDP, the Port Land Use Plan(LUP) and associated planningschemes (Mackay City CouncilPlanning Scheme).

Po3 Plan and provide maritimeinfrastructure in accordance with theQueensland Government’s MaritimeCapital Investment Plan.

Po4 Ensure continued implementation ofthe Queensland Coastal ContingencyAction Plan (including NATPLAN,REEFPLAN and MPA Oil SpillContingency Plan) for oil-spill eventsimpacting on the Mackay area,including the river and coast areas.

Po5 Investigate future staged developmentof the port access road link(dependent on outcomes of ActionFr6).

Rail Infrastructure and Services

Rl1 Review Mackay railway stationpassenger infrastructure, especiallyinter-modal connection facilities.

Rl2 Investigate provision of improvedpublic transport services between therail passenger terminal at Paget, theCBD and the Long Distance CoachTerminal.

Rl3 Assess cane railway crossings usingthe risk scoring matrix developed bythe Queensland Level Crossing SafetySteering Group, with input from therail and relevant rail/road authorityor owner as appropriate.

Rl4 Ensure compatibility between QR railinfrastructure improvements and theMackay Port Development Plan (PDP).

Summary of Action Plans (continued)



Tourism

TM1 Support Mackay TourismDevelopment Board in the proposedMackay Regional Signage Projectthrough formation of a DistrictTourist Signage Committee toconsider the provision of:■ ‘welcome’ and interpretive signage

at key access points in Mackay;■ educational and interpretive signs

along scenic road routes in accordance with design standards; and

■ directional signs along roads toclearly direct tourists to particulardestinations.

TM2 Determine the appropriateness ofexisting designated road linkagesbetween the Bruce Highway, MackayCity and the coast for tourismpurposes.

TM3 Consider design requirements forscenic roads to cater for slow speedenvironments at points of interest(eg. turn-off lanes) in the provisionof new and upgraded roads.

TM4 Provide tourist roadside facilitiesalong scenic and popular touristroutes and destinations asappropriate.

TM5 Monitor and participate in statewidetourism-related strategies containedin the Strategic Tourism RoadsStrategy.

Environmental and socialconsiderations

En1 Develop and implementEnvironmental Management Systems(EMSs) which consider transportplanning and infrastructure provision.

En2 Incorporate environmental standardsand controls in planning and designof transport projects.

En3 Implement ongoing monitoring (air,noise, water) of the transport systembased on appropriate codes todetermine impacts and deviseamelioration strategies.

En4 Raise community awareness ofenvironmentally responsible transportsystem usage and potential benefits.

En5 Monitor transport accessibility toensure equitable coverage in theMackay urban area.

En6 Incorporate physical access criteria inthe planning and design of upgraded/new transport system facilities.

En7 Plan and design for safety andsecurity measures in upgraded/newtransport system facilities.

En8 Implement ongoing auditing of safetyand security of the transport system,including development of local actionplans for pedestrian and cycle paths.

En9 Consider environmental, social andeconomic considerations and includeappropriate consultation whencarrying out Impact AssessmentStudies for transport infrastructureand facilities.

Road Network

CRd1 Commence planning for thereplacement of Forgan and HospitalBridges to address cross-rivercapacity, including consideration ofapproach and major intersectionrequirements.

CRd2 Undertake detailed urban roadplanning studies to address capacityissues associated with:■ Glenpark Street;■ Nebo Road including intersections;■ Hume Street/River Street link;■ Paradise Street;■ Bruce Highway north of Sams

Road;■ Malcolmson Street; and■ Rural View to Blacks Beach link.

CRd3 Undertake detailed investigationsinto the provision of alternative roadnetwork routes to address theimpacts of through transport offreight.

CRd4 Upgrade Mackay – Bucasia Road(intersections) and Eimeo Roaddeviation.

CRd5 Upgrade Mackay – Bucasia Road (4 lanes) rail overpass/interchangeHabana Rd.

CRd6 Upgrade Bruce Hwy/Bucasia Rdintersection.

CRd7 Continue to manage the roadnetwork including:■ maintaining road safety standards

that are responsive to local needs;■ reviewing traffic signal phasing to

reduce delays;■ maintaining road signage in

accordance with local and state standards;

■ maintaining the road asset; and■ undertaking road safety audits.

Public Transport

CPt1 Undertake a public transportplanning study to identify futurepublic transport needs for theMackay area.

CPt2 Contribute towards local bus services.

CPt3 Contribute towards ‘taxi transit’services.

CPt4 Continue Taxi Subsidy Scheme toimprove the mobility of people withsevere disabilities.

Cycling

CCy1 Implement infrastructure inaccordance with the Mackay CityCouncil Bicycle Plan.

Freight Movement

CFr1 Undertake a freight transport studyto assess future infrastructure androute requirements for heavy vehicles(B-Doubles, over-dimension,dangerous and hazardous goods) inthe Mackay area.

CFr2 Undertake detailed urban roadplanning study to investigateupgrading of MalcomsonStreet/Evans Avenue to providemedium-term road access to the portof Mackay.

CFr3 Rehabilitate Harbour Road pavementto maintain continued high standardaccess to the port of Mackay.

CFr4 Undertake a detailed investigationinto the provision of long-term roadaccess to the port of Mackay.

CFr5 Undertake detailed investigations intothe provision of alternative freightroutes around the greater Mackayurban area to address the impacts ofthrough transport of freight.

Summary of Recommended Capital Programs



Aviation

CAv1 Develop airside, landside andterminal building infrastructure inaccordance the Mackay AirportMaster Plan.

CAv2 Develop airside, landside andterminal building infrastructure inaccordance with the medium-termplan in the Mackay Airport MasterPlan.

CAv3 Develop airside, landside andterminal building infrastructure inaccordance with the long-term planin the Mackay Airport Master Plan.

Port, River and Marine

CPo1 Develop the seaport, including landreclamation and development,roadwork and dredging.

CPo2 Implement medium-term seaportworks in accordance with the PortDevelopment Plan.

CPo3 Implement long-term seaport worksin accordance with the PortDevelopment Plan.

Accessibility The ease and convenience of reaching and using a service orlocation.

Activity nodes Activity nodes are places where different groups of people gatherduring the day and/or night. A node might be a railway station,a bus stop, a shopping centre or street corner.

Arterial road Primary connecting road, from which smaller roads link to morelocal areas.

B-Double Over-sized vehicle that is a combination of a prime mover followedby two trailers of which the total length is less than 25 metres.

Biodiversity The variety of all life forms – the different plants, animals andmicro-organisms, the genes they contain, and the ecosystem ofwhich they form a part.

CBD Central Business District.

Collector road A road whose primary function is the distribution of traffic betweenarterial roads and residential streets.

Community Transportation that supports community activities.transport

Cross-modal Providing for two or more modes of transportation.

DLG&P Department of Local Government and Planning.

DMR Department of Main Roads.

Ecologically Using, conserving and enhancing the community’s resources so thatSustainable ecological processes, on which life depends, are maintained, and theDevelopment total quality of life, now and in the future, can be increased.(ESD)

EPA Environmental Protection Agency.

Freight Designated road and rail transport infrastructure supporting network efficient freight movement and minimizing impacts on the community.

Grade Separation of different transport routes using overpasses separation and underpasses.

Infrastructure Basic structures (such as roads, railways, wharves and traffic lights)needed for transportation.

Integrated Combined into a unified system, taking into consideration all modesof transport, land use, social, environmental and economicconsiderations.

Ktpa Kilo tonnes per annum.

Local road A road whose main function includes the distribution of trafficbetween arterial and collector roads and residential areas, and isunder the control of local government.

MAITAP Mackay Area Integrated Transport Action Plan.

MAITP Mackay Area Integrated Transport Plan. Also referred to as ’Plan’.

Glossary



MAITS Mackay Area Integrated Transport Study.

MCC Mackay City Council.

MMFC Multi-modal freight corridor.

MPA Mackay Port Authority.

MSCAL Mackay Sugar Co-operative Association Ltd.

Mtpa Mega tonnes per annum.

Multi-modal Transport systems incorporating two or more modes e.g. rail and road.

Public Place built for passengers to gain access to public transport or totransport transfer from one public transport vehicle to another.interchange

QR Queensland Rail.

QT Queensland Transport.

QT(SC) Queensland Transport through the Commercial Service Contract withbus operators.

Ring road Road encircling an urban area to enable traffic to avoid travellingthrough that area.

Service An agreement for the provision of transport services between acontract transport operator and government.

Social justice Social justice advocates that all people should be able to movefreely and safely in urban and rural areas and not be disadvantagedbecause of their remoteness from community facilities, theireconomic circumstances or personal impairment.

TIDS Department of Main Roads Transport Infrastructure DevelopmentSubsidy.

Traffic Traffic management techniques aimed at reducing the impact ofcalming traffic on local streets.

Transport People who do not have access to adequate transport.disadvantaged

Transport Infrastructure, services and equipment to provide for the movementof system people and freight.

Vpd Vehicles per day.

MAITS Steering Committee


Les FordFormer Executive Director (Integrated Transport Planning) (Chair)

Department of Main Roads

Malcolm Hellmuth: Executive Director(Central)

Ken Williamson: District Director (Mackay)

Mackay City Council

Julie Boyd: Mayor

Greg Breckell: Councillor


Greg Mann: Chief Executive Officer

Federal Department of Transport andRegional Services

Pauline Brooks

MAITS Technical Committee


Gary PoulsenFormer Regional Manager (Integrated Transport Planning) Central (Chair )

Neville PattersonFormer Director (Regional Transport Planning)

Michael Carter: Principal Advisor(Regional Transport Planning)

Neil Heath: Manager (Public Transport) Central

Department of Main Roads

Lance Christiansen: Manager (Transport Planning) Mackay

Bruce Hansen: Senior Design DrafterMackay

Mackay City Council

Michael Jewell: Former Director of Planning & Development

Graeme Preston: Former Director of WorksDan Coonan: Manager Development &Subdivisional Services


Ian Meech: Manager Maintenance,Technical Services & Construction

Department of Local Government and Planning

Paul Cridland: Project Director WHAM 2015

Queensland Rail

Kumar Thambar: Former ManagerPlanning & Research: Freight

MAITS Technical and ConsultationConsultants

Gutteridge Haskins & Davey Pty Ltd:Project Consultants

Eppell Olsen & Partners: TransportModelling

MAITP Team

Johan Louw, Regional Manager (IntegratedTransport Planning) Central (ProjectDirector)

Michael Carter, Principal Advisor (RegionalTransport Planning) (Project Manager)

Deanna Grant-Smith, Senior Advisor(Regional Transport Planning)

Valerie Dripps, A/Senior Advisor (RegionalTransport Planning)

Margaret Carlisle, A/Project Officer(Regional Transport Planning)


MAITS SteeringCommittee

The MAITS Study hasbeen directed by aSteering Committeechaired by QueenslandTransport. It alsoincludes senior officersfrom agencies including:

■ Department of MainRoads

■ Mackay City Council

■ Mackay Port Authority

■ Federal Department ofTransport and Regions

MAITS TechnicalCommittee

A Technical Committeewas also established toadvise on technicalissues and to providedetailed input to theStudy process. TheTechnical Committeecomprisedrepresentatives of:

■ Queensland Transport

■ Department of MainRoads

■ Mackay City Council

■ Mackay Port Authority

■ Queensland Rail

■ Department of LocalGovernment &Planning

The Mackay Area Integrated Transport Plan is available on the Queensland Transport internet site:

http://www.transport.qld.gov.au

Contact the Regional Manager Integrated Transport Planning Central,Queensland Transport on (07) 4931 1651 for information regarding

the Mackay Area Integrated Transport Plan or other integrated regionaltransport planning activities being undertaken across the State.

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