RACQ’s latest Annual Road Safety Survey uncovers a troubling rise in dangerous driving habits across Queensland, with road fatalities climbing as a result.

 

Nearly 16% of respondents admitted to drink driving — the highest rate since 2017 — and over 6% drove after using illegal drugs.

 

Dr. Michael Kane stressed the urgent impact, linking this cultural shift directly to tragedies affecting local families and communities.

 

The survey reveals more than half of drink drivers actively dodged police checkpoints, and 40% relied on mobile apps to avoid detection.

 

RACQ is urging the state to expand roadside drug and alcohol testing, boost funding for addiction support, and impose harsher penalties—including tougher impoundment measures.

 

Concerns extend to personal mobility devices, with eight deaths recorded in 2024.

 

RACQ is pushing for stronger policing powers to remove illegal or unsafe devices from public areas to better protect Queenslanders.

Pappa Flock, beloved for its crispy, free-range chicken tenders, is set to open its first Queensland restaurant at Westfield Chermside.

 

This marks the brand’s 10th location and its debut outside New South Wales.

 

The new 209-square-meter venue will seat around 58 guests, outshining the capacity of existing Sydney stores.

 

Chief Marketing Officer Rachel Korbel shared excitement about meeting strong social media demand from Queensland fans.

 

The launch comes just two months after opening in Marrickville, reflecting the chain’s rapid expansion and popularity.

 

To celebrate, early guests on 16 August can grab a free Flock Box, featuring Pappa Flock’s famous tenders, seasoned chips, and more.

 

Another Queensland outlet in Mt Gravatt is already planned for later this year, strengthening the brand’s local footprint.