Construction has kicked off on a $40 million project to replace five timber bridges on the Dawson Highway between Calliope and Biloela in central Queensland.
Queensland Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey said the existing weight limits in place on these timber bridges had been a major inhibitor to the region’s freight operations, with some vehicles travelling hundreds of additional kilometres via Rockhampton.
“The project will replace the long-standing timber bridges which will widen the Dawson Highway at these locations, increasing safety for all road users,” Mr Bailey said.
“The old bridges had also previously been the subject of regular closures due to flooding.
“This project will deliver flood immunity above a Q50 level – one in 50 year flood.
“The new concrete structures are part of the continuing improvement of the Dawson Highway to open up new transport opportunities for the region.”
The five timber bridges to be replaced include:
- Nine Mile Creek – 19km west of Calliope
- Catfish Creek – 22km west of Calliope
- Sheep Station Creek – 23km west of Calliope
- Maxwelton Creek – 38km west of Calliope
- Doubtful Creek – 44km west of Calliope
Gladstone-based Golding Contractors has been awarded the contract for construction of the project, which is expected to support 38 direct jobs over the next 12 months.
