Safer overtaking and stronger flood resilience for the Bruce at Goorganga

Construction has now commenced on new overtaking lanes at Goorganga while design progresses for future flood resilience upgrades.
The works will improve safety, freight efficiency and network resilience on a key section of the Bruce Highway, helping get Queenslanders home sooner and safer.
The project is jointly funded, demonstrating the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments’ commitment to fixing the Bruce and strengthening regional Queensland connections.
The upgrades will deliver safer and more reliable journeys for North Queensland communities during severe weather events.

The Albanese and Crisafulli Governments are progressing another milestone for fixing the Bruce, with construction now underway on new overtaking lanes at Goorganga Plains, south of Proserpine.

The project will deliver new northbound and southbound overtaking lanes on the Bruce Highway, improving safety, reducing driver frustration and supporting more efficient journeys for freight operators, tourists and local communities.

The upgrade will also include roadside safety improvements and upgrades to the Gunyarra Road intersection, including improved lighting and pavement treatments.

Importantly, design work is also progressing on future flood immunity upgrades along this section of the Bruce Highway, helping ensure a safer and more resilient connection for North Queensland communities during major weather events.

The proposed flood resilience improvements would raise 10.6 kilometres of highway between Thompson Creek and Lethebrook, improve drainage infrastructure and deliver new bridges and intersection upgrades designed to keep the highway open for longer during severe weather.

The works are being delivered as part of a jointly funded Bruce Highway investment to boost safety for the spine of the State, getting Queenslanders home sooner and safer.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the project would deliver important benefits for motorists and freight operators travelling between Mackay and Proserpine.

"The Albanese Government is investing in projects that improve safety, reliability and resilience on the Bruce Highway," Minister King said.

"These upgrades will help create a safer and more reliable route for local communities, freight operators and visitors while supporting long-term economic growth across North Queensland."

Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the project was another important milestone in the Crisafulli Government's commitment to fixing the Bruce.

"The Bruce Highway is the backbone of Queensland and we're getting on with the job of delivering the upgrades needed get Queenslanders home safer and sooner," Minister Mickelberg said.

"These overtaking lanes will provide safer opportunities for motorists to pass slower-moving vehicles, improve freight efficiency and deliver smoother journeys on a critical section of the highway.

“These works will improve journeys for commuters now, while laying the groundwork for a more resilient Bruce Highway. Major flood resilience upgrades are already being designed to help keep North Queensland communities connected during severe weather.”

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm said the project would provide lasting benefits for local communities and industries.

"Anyone who regularly drives this section of the Bruce Highway understands how important these upgrades are for safety and reliability," Ms Camm said.

"This investment will improve travel conditions for local residents, tourists and freight operators while supporting the industries and businesses that keep our region moving.

"Locals have endured the impacts of flooding in this region, so it is fantastic to also see planning underway to deliver infrastructure improvements to improve flood resilience where it is needed most.”

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Minister King: Jack Begbie, 0481 759 580

Minister Mickelberg: Mardi Norton, 0467 746 523