General News
1 July, 2025
Start of key new bridge
DETAILED design of a new $490 million bridge across the Barron River at Kuranda is to start immediately after the state budget this week confirmed Queensland’s share of $245m.
It is expected the bridge will take four years to build with an opening date of 2031.
The $245m investment matches the Australian Government’s commitment announced in April and will result in a new bridge constructed downstream of the existing structure. It will include a separated pedestrian and cycling path, enhanced safety features and a turnaround facility on the Kennedy Highway.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Brent Mickelberg said the investment would deliver the infrastructure Far North Queenslanders had been crying out for.
“This commitment cements full funding for the project and will allow detailed design and pre-construction works to begin,” he said.
“We’re a government of delivery. We do what we say we’ll do – funding it, building it and delivering it. This is generational infrastructure that will serve the Far North for decades to come.”
Member for Barron River Bree James said the funding commitment was a hard-fought victory for her community.
“This bridge is more than infrastructure – it’s a lifeline for our communities and we’re proud to be finally making it a reality for our region,” she said.
“The Crisafulli government is delivering real results with the new bridge to help improve connectivity and safety for our key road link between Cairns and regional Far North Queensland.”
Member for Cook David Kempton said the announcement was a clear sign the Far North was no longer being left behind.
“This is a game-changer for Far North Queensland,” he said.
“This bridge is a vital link – whether it’s for students accessing education, patients getting to medical appointments, freight and goods moving efficiently or tourists exploring our unique region. Its benefits will be widely felt and long-lasting.”
The current bridge will remain open during construction and once the repairs to the Kuranda Range are complete in 2026 the commuters and travellers can expect more reliability when traversing the range.
With construction expected to support around 150 jobs over the project’s life, Mr Kempton said the bridge was also a much-needed economic boost.
