The Toowoomba Bypass
The most important issue facing Toowoomba and the Darling Downs is the construction of the Toowoomba Bypass.
The Toowoomba Bypass is critical to our ability to capitalise on the next wave of economic development.
The Toowoomba Bypass is a huge project, covering 42 kilometres of highway.
Its main benefit would be to provide an alternative route outside Toowoomba for the thousands of heavy vehicles that use the current Range crossing each day.
This would increase the quality of life for the local motorists and residents who currently share their roads with large trucks each day. It would also enhance safety on the current Toowoomba Range crossing.
In 2007 the Coalition Government committed an initial $700 million to allow construction to start on the Toowoomba Bypass, with more to follow. However, the Rudd Government continues to ignore the importance of this project.
Ian is determined to keep fighting for the construction of the Toowoomba Bypass and will continue to lobby on behalf of the people of Toowoomba and the Darling Downs who are also determined to see the Bypass constructed.
Borneo Barracks
The future of the Borneo Barracks remains an important issue for the people of Toowoomba, Highfields, Cabarlah and the Darling Downs and Ian is determined to ensure the Rudd Government understands its significance both to our region and the Australian Defence Force.
Like many community members, Ian is aware of the economic, social and cultural costs of losing the barracks and remains vehmently opposed to its closure.
Borneo Barracks not only makes a critical contribution to the Australian Defence Force, it is one of the most significant local employers and attracts skilled workers to the region.
In June Ian presented a petition to Parliament calling for the Borneo Barracks to remain at Cabarlah.