FOUR local roadside rest areas will be upgraded to help combat driver fatigue along the Pacific Highway through the MidCoast and Port Stephens.

Federal funding of close to $300,000 under the Driver Reviver Site Upgrade Program will upgrade Driver Reviver signage and amenities.

$75,950.00 each will be provided for Driver Reviver Sign upgrades in both Browns Flat and Nerong, with a further $118,000.00 to be spent on improving signage at the Raymond Terrace Driver Reviver Site.

$25,000.00 will be provided for the replacement of the Amenities Block roof at the iKew Visitor Information Centre in Kew.

Federal Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie MP said he also wanted to thank the generosity of local volunteers who give many hours providing their help at Driver Reviver centres.

“The Kew Driver Reviver centre provides a great service so that motorists can stop and take a break at this pretty location,” Dr Gillespie said.

“With school holiday traffic on the roads again, this is a timely reminder about taking extra care with our precious cargo of family and friends.

“Well done to the iKew Visitor Information Centre staff who operate the Driver Reviver service each school holidays here on Nancy Bird Walton Drive.”

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Barnaby Joyce said the upgrades would provide a place for safety and fatigue breaks for drivers and their passengers.

“The upgrades we are funding are aimed at making rest sites more welcoming and comfortable for drivers, to help them overcome driver fatigue and ensure they reach their destination safely,” Mr Joyce said.