Former Cairns engineer Graeme Haussmann has been honoured with the naming of Edge Hill’s newest bridge, opened on Collins Avenue this month.

Cairns Regional Council constructed the $3.8 million Graeme Haussmann Bridge, with funding support from federal and state governments.

Mr Haussmann worked as the City Engineer for Cairns City Council for 32 years from 1956 to 1988, spanning a pivotal time in the city’s development.

“This was at a time when the Cairns region experienced rapid, expansive development that created many challenges,” Mayor Bob Manning said.

“Graeme was responsible for the provision of most of the essential infrastructure that helped transform Cairns into the modern, liveable city it is today.

“When Graeme started working for council, most of the city was floodprone, even during relatively minor rainfall events. There was virtually no underground sewerage network or treatment plant; there was no assured water supply; and most of the roads were gravel.

“It is as a result of Graeme’s expertise and foresight that Cairns has transformed into a modern, sophisticated and world-class city. It’s fitting that this important new bridge bears Graeme’s name.”

Some of Mr Haussmann’s achievements include implementation of the Cairns Master Drainage Scheme, installation of a citywide underground sewer network and construction of Copperlode Falls Dam and associated water infrastructure.

Main image: Graeme Haussmann (centre) with Treasurer Curtis Pitt and Mayor Bob Manning at the official opening of the new bridge.

Below: The new Graeme Haussmann Bridge in Edge Hill, Cairns.