David Batt (Hinkler, Liberal National Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I'm very pleased to note a significant win for my electorate made possible through investment under a former coalition government initiative, the Hinkler regional deal. I was yesterday informed that detailed design investigations for the Bruce Highway and Buxton Road intersection upgrade at Isis River—a stretch of road just south of Childers, which I travel most weeks when I'm not here in Canberra have been—have been completed. The design will keep the speed limit to 80 kilometres per hour at this spot and includes dedicated right and left turn lanes into Buxton Road and the local service station and improved access for nearby property owners. Construction on the intersection upgrade should start by the middle of this year.

The milestone development follows years of community pressure; strong advocacy, including by our state member for Burnett, Stephen Bennett; and extensive consultation, culminating in a design that reflects the needs of the growing Buxton community. I've been working with residents in calling for this upgrade for a long time, and this final design strikes the right balance between safety, access and efficiency on one of my region's most important transport corridors. This wouldn't have happened without the announcement made by the coalition government in 2020 and the commitment from the Queensland LNP's Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg. There has been a contribution of $10 million in federal funding, and now the job is finally getting done to ensure this stretch of the Bruce Highway is safer for travellers and, importantly, our local Buxton residents.

I'd like to highlight some of the many great Aussies from the electorate of Hinkler who were acknowledged in our local Australia Day awards. I've had the privilege of meeting with the Citizen of the Year award winners from Hinkler, including Hervey Bay's Bernard Whebell who was named the 2026 Fraser Coast Citizen of the Year. Bernard was recognised for years of dedicated service to the community, particularly through his leadership with the Hervey Bay Neighbourhood Centre. His contribution has helped guide growth, strengthen services and create meaningful outcomes for thousands of people across the region. I toured the ever-expanding services of the neighbourhood centre with Bernard and CEO, Tanya Stevenson, only last week, and I witnessed the amazing community hub and all that it offers. Bernard's work colleagues stated he is someone who leads with integrity, generosity and quiet confidence, always focused on people, not recognition. Congratulations, Bernie.

The Bundaberg region Citizen of the Year, Jo Leveritt, is the founder of Wide Bay Advocacy and Bundaberg Street Law. Jo is a highly respected human rights lawyer and social justice advocate who provides free legal service and systematic advocacy for vulnerable members of our Hinkler community. Jo's leadership and community involvement support people facing poverty, domestic violence and mental health challenges. Her work has created lasting impacts and strengthened social justice across the Bundaberg region. Jo's dedication has changed lives and reflects the true spirit of service recognised through this award.

I commend these Hinkler heroes and all those who are nominated for various Australia Day awards. They are the heart and soul of our community.