Business
3 June, 2025
Four-year bridge build
A NEW Barron River bridge at Kuranda will take at least four years to be completed, according to the highly-anticipated business case released by the state government last week.
Replacing the old bridge with a new superstructure was the preferred option recommended to the government, however, the expected timeline for “enabling works, construction works, and decommissioning works” would take a minimum of four years, when factoring wet seasons.
The new bridge, expected to cost $490 million, would cover about 270m of river with three spans, located downstream from the existing structure.
It would have broader traffic lanes, a wide centre-line treatment and a painted median.
A new pathway for pedestrians and bike riders, separated from traffic with a barrier, was also recommended to improve safety.
The concept layout for the new bridge includes a turnaround capability on the Kennedy Highway at the top of the Kuranda Range.
The existing bridge would remain in service with routine maintenance and testing, and would only be removed once the new bridge was open.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Brent Mickelberg said the new bridge would improve network reliability and safety for all road users, while minimising potential environmental and cultural heritage impacts.
The original bridge, constructed in 1963, stretches 256m with six spans over the river and is the vital link in commuting, tourism and transportation from Cairns to the Tablelands.
Since 2020, the bridge has been regularly closed, or open for one lane only, after fatigue cracks in certain steel components of the bridge were identified.
“The Barron River Bridge is an important road connecting communities in the Far North, which is why we committed to fixing it,” Mr Mickelberg said.
“We welcome the federal government’s funding commitment of $245 million to the project and look forward to making further funding announcements at the earliest opportunity,” he said.
“Engagement with key stakeholders and local government is already underway, with industry briefings on the project to be held in the next few months.” Mareeba Mayor Angela Toppin said the news was “encouraging”.
“The Kuranda Range is a critical route between Cairns, Mareeba Shire and further to the Cape,” she said.
Member for Barron River Bree James said the release of the summary business case was “the news my community has been waiting for”.
“We can now move forward with a long-term solution for Barron River and ensure the Far North stays connected,” she said.
Member for Cook David Kempton said “the community has been fighting tooth and nail for a safe and reliable bridge.”
