Mildura businesses have shown their support for a petition by Federal Member for Mallee Dr Anne Webster and State Member for Mildura Jade Benham MP, calling for a heavy vehicle bypass to reduce heavy vehicle traffic on Deakin Avenue.

Dr Webster delivered the petition to 12 Mildura CBD businesses along Deakin Avenue.

“The message from businesses I spoke to was clear – people want less trucks going through town,” Dr Webster said.  “It isn’t the truck driver’s fault – they need a viable alternative route that is efficient and safe.

“Truckies will gain time with a strategic long term solution that bypasses the townships and reduces the risks.

“I have spoken with my federal ministerial colleagues and the process begins with evidence of  community support and hence, the petition. We need to work together at local, state and federal levels of government to see this strategy fulfilled.”

The petition can be signed at the following businesses:

• Hudaks Bakery
• 27 Deakin
• Mario’s Sports Bar
• Sunraysia Daily
• Commodore Motel
• Deakin Motorcycles
• Ransom’s
• Brother Chris
• Professionals Real Estate
• River 1467
• Mildura Health Fund
• Blk Mlk

The petition is also available here or at www.annewebster.com.au

Dr Webster has met with Mildura Council and local transport stakeholders to discuss solutions.

“Mildura needs robust solutions to get heavy traffic off Deakin Avenue, freight onto rail and create safer and more efficient connections across Australia,” Dr Webster said.

“Mildura’s main thoroughfare, civic and commercial centre – Deakin Ave, needs to be protected. We need Deakin Avenue safer for the 12,000 other drivers who use it each day, safer for pedestrians and cyclists while also reducing maintenance costs.”