A GOLD Coast public relations specialist has her sights set firmly on the road ahead - the $2 billion North-South Bypass Tunnel (NSBT) in Brisbane. Consultant Simone Holzapfel of PR newcomer Shac, is adept in communications pertaining to large-scale infrastructure. Ms Holzapfel gained considerable experience with Leighton Contractors, one of Australia's largest mining, construction and infrastructure development companies. Following the inception of the RiverCity Motorway consortium, Ms Holzapfel has played an integral role advising on a strategic communications plan for the project.

"The RiverCity Motorway is the biggest development of its kind in Australia, so it is certainly exciting to be part of such a significant project, which will greatly benefit the people of Queensland for years to come," says Ms Holzapfel. The 6.8km project, 4.8km of which is underground tunnel, is expected to cut around 15 minutes off cross-city travel by avoiding 18 sets of traffic lights. Completion has been earmarked for 2010. Upon completion, the motorway will be the longest and most technically advanced tunnel in Australia and will feature a cutting edge tolling system.