A safer speed limit for Lochiel and popular Pink Lake

Tuesday, 16 January 2024

A reduced speed limit through a popular tourist destination in the Mid North has been introduced, designed to improve road safety at South Australia’s famous ‘Pink Lake’.

The new 60km/h speed limit – lowered from 80km/h – is along an 800-metre section of the Augusta Highway, known as Frances Terrace, in Lochiel.

The change aims to ensure the safety of pedestrians who cross the highway to visit Lake Bumbunga, which attracts travellers wanting to see the iconic pink backdrop home to the ‘Loch-Eel Monster’ sculpture.

It will also help increase driver and cyclist safety, reducing the risk and severity of crashes occurring in the tourist hotspot.

Lochiel has become increasingly busy after recent upgrades to local amenities and new infrastructure, including installation of a viewing platform, toilets, playground, picnic area, RV park and designated car park adjacent to the lake.

Growing promotion of Lake Bumbunga on social media has also boosted visitor numbers, resulting in more pedestrians in the area.

Members of the Lochiel community have repeatedly called for a reduced speed limit, fearing a serious crash or fatality on the stretch of road.

This included the late John Nicholls, the unofficial ‘Mayor of Lochiel’, who contacted the Minister for Regional Roads last year – highlighting the risks posed to surging tourist numbers and need to better protect vulnerable road users in the township.

The 60km/h speed limit will be trialled for approximately 12 months, followed by a safety and compliance assessment to collate results and determine if the new limit will remain.

To further improve safety during the trial, the Department for Infrastructure and Transport will install new pedestrian warning signs within the 60km/h zone – reminding drivers why the reduced speed limit is in place.

Consultation with Wakefield Regional Council, community groups, residents and freight industry on the change will also be carried out.