A major traffic incident unfolded on a key Far North Queensland artery on Tuesday morning, causing significant delays for motorists. A trailer detached from a vehicle travelling on the Kennedy Highway, leading to hours of disruption.
Scene of the Incident and Emergency Response
The incident occurred on the Kennedy Highway at Biboohra, near Mareeba, just before 9:30 AM. Reports indicate that a trailer became separated from the vehicle towing it, coming to rest on the roadway. Queensland Police were promptly notified and attended the scene to manage the situation and begin an investigation into the cause.
Emergency services, including Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) crews, were also dispatched. Their primary task was to safely remove the detached trailer from the highway, a process that took considerable time due to the need to secure the load and ensure the safety of all workers and passing motorists.
Major Traffic Disruption for Motorists
The aftermath of the incident created a nightmare for commuters. Traffic came to a standstill in both directions as emergency crews worked to clear the obstruction. Motorists faced lengthy delays, with some reports suggesting queues stretched for several kilometres.
The Kennedy Highway is a crucial transport link connecting the Atherton Tablelands to Cairns, used by daily commuters, freight operators, and tourists. The blockage during the morning peak period amplified the disruption, with many drivers left stranded for hours. Authorities advised drivers to avoid the area if possible and to expect significant travel time increases.
Clearance and Return to Normal
After hours of coordinated effort by police and emergency crews, the scene was finally cleared. The detached trailer was successfully removed from the roadway, allowing traffic to begin flowing normally again. However, the clean-up operation meant delays persisted well into the afternoon.
While no injuries were reported as a result of the trailer detaching, the incident serves as a stark reminder for all drivers to ensure their loads and trailers are securely fastened before travelling. Queensland Police have confirmed they are investigating the circumstances surrounding the trailer's detachment. The investigation will look into whether any road rules were breached and what specific factors led to the equipment failure.
The event highlights the vulnerability of major regional highways to single-point disruptions and the cascading effect on traffic flow. It also underscores the vital role of emergency services in responding to and resolving such incidents to restore critical infrastructure.
