(L-R) City of Greater Geraldton Councillors Tarleah Thomas, Jennifer Critch and Jerry Clune at the Kojarena Truck Stop on the Geraldton-Mt Magnet Road.

Upgrades to the Kojarena Truck Stop are on the City of Greater Geraldton’s radar, following the loss of the Giles Road ablution block earlier this year.

Located on the Geraldton-Mt Magnet Road, the pullover bay is frequented by a variety of travellers but has no facilities.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn believes it would make an ideal location for an ablution block.

“Truck drivers are required to have a driving break every five hours as part of fatigue management and the Kojarena Truck Stop is that break spot for many,” he said.

“With the loss of the Giles Road ablution block and no other facilities close by, it makes sense for this area to be upgraded to accommodate all drivers.

“We are calling on the State Government to improve the Kojarena Truck Stop – ideally, we would like to see the area sealed along with toilet and shower facilities added, so that people don’t have to relieve themselves in the bush.”

The Giles Road ablution block was destroyed by vandals earlier this year.

It was one of the only public facilities along the Geraldton to Mullewa stretch, which is 99kms, and will not be rebuilt as it is in the direct path of the proposed Dongara-Geraldton-Northampton Outer Bypass.

“Upgrading the Kojarena Truck Stop would be a positive step forwards, especially for female truck drivers who form an integral part of the industry. It would also help to repair the relationships that have been impacted by the Dongara-Geraldton-Northampton Outer Bypass news,” added Mayor Van Styn.

The City of Greater Geraldton encourages the State Government to consider this request.