Walcha business reach out to Kevin Anderson about speed limit

The Roads and Maritime Service (RMS) plans to reduce the speed limit along large sections of the Oxley Highway between Walcha and Port Macquarie by up to 30km/h.

Walcha is a must-stop location for riders making the pilgrimage to the motorbiking mecca, but businesses are so worried the changes will drive away the niche market that they have reached out to Mr Anderson, who is the Parliamentary Secretary for Roads and Rail.

Last week, Mr Anderson told The Leader the reduction would only have a negligible impact on tourism, but after local businesses contact his office and expressed concern, Mr Anderson said a compromise may be looked at.

“I don't want to see tourism compromised, I don't want to see tourism affected by the decision,” Mr Anderson said.

“I want to make sure the road continues to be used by motorbike riders in a safe manner.”

Walcha Motel owner Andy Wright was one of those who reached out to the Tamworth MP.

In the warmer months, motorcycle riders make up about 50 per cent of Mr Wright’s weekend business – and more importantly, it's reliable trade that is growing.

“I get groups from up north and around Brisbane coming three or four times a year,” Mr Wright said.

“There are usually 10 or so of them and they stay for a couple of days. If they lower the speed limit, I don't know if I'll see them again.”

Mr Wright said motorcycle tourism had filled the void left in Walcha after the forestry industry collapsed.

“It’s not easy to get tourists here, we don’t have beaches or big tourist attractions – the riders are great, because they don’t bring anything with them, so they eat, drink and shop in town,” he said.

An RMS representative will meet with local businesses on Tuesday at Gingers Creek Bush Resort to hear their concerns.