Beames Brook Bridge to be a beauty

Construction has started on the $5.97 million replacement of Beames Brook Bridge on Wills Developmental Road, 27 kilometres south of Burketown, Queensland.

Deputy Prime Minister and Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the new bridge would better connect regional Gulf of Carpentaria communities.

“The bridge will be a fit-for-purpose structure which will provide safer access for communities and support more efficient freight movement and in turn key regional industries,” Mr McCormack said.

“The replacement is being funded under the Bridges Renewal Program on a 50:50 funding arrangement between the Australian and Queensland Governments.”

Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bailey said the project formed part of a wider north-west Queensland strategy to improve the reliability of the Northern Australia road network.

“Wills Developmental Road is a key regional link which provides access to the Gulf communities of Burketown and Doomadgee and is essential for freight, industry and tourism,” Mr Bailey said.

“The new bridge and its approaches will be longer and wider than the original, significantly improving safety and efficiency levels.”

Community members are being encouraged to get involved and make their mark on history by providing suggestions on what the new structure should be called.

To suggest a name for the bridge visit: https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Projects/Name/B/Beames-Brook-Bridge-replacement/Help-name-the-new-bridge-over-Beames-Brook.

An average of 19 direct jobs will be supported during construction, which is expected to be complete in November 2018, weather permitting.

For further information about the Bridges Renewal Program visit: http://investment.infrastructure.gov.au/infrastructure_investment/bridges_renewal.aspx.

Media contact for Minister Bailey: 0447355565