Works underway on Bruce Highway upgrade in Tully

Works are getting underway to improve flooding and inundation issues on the Bruce Highway between Dallachy Road and Dean Road in Tully, Queensland. 

This $18 million project is being delivered under the Bruce Highway Upgrade Program that aims to improve safety, flood resilience and capacity along the corridor from Brisbane to Cairns. 

This upgrade is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Government, each contributing $14.4 million and $3.6 million respectively. 

“This is one of many projects the Albanese Government is delivering to fix the Bruce Highway and it’s great to see the construction contract awarded and works are getting underway. 

“We will continue to partner with the Queensland Government to support the delivery of these important flood improvement and safety works,” Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said. 

Project map (source: QLD Department of Transport and Main Roads)

BMD Constructions will be undertaking the works, which will create more than 40 direct jobs. 

To ensure optimal water flow and drainage during the rainy season, several reinforced concrete box culverts that vary in size will be installed under the highway. 

This section of the Bruce Highway will be closed to traffic while works are carried out. Motorists will be diverted onto an old section of the highway to maintain traffic capacity in the area. 

Weather and work conditions permitting, construction on this project is anticipated to be completed in mid-2026. 

“The Bruce is the backbone of this State, and when it gets impacted by flooding the impacts are wide-reaching for Queenslanders – not only stopping freight movement but preventing communities from staying connected. 

“The flood immunity works will significantly improve these as well as help visibility, access and a reduced risk of head-on collision for motorists,” QLD Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said. 

“The Bruce Highway is the main artery through Queensland, and we know how devastating it can be for communities right across the State when this essential route is impacted by floods. 

“These works will go a long way in mitigating those impacts and improving safety during the wet season and I am proud to be part of a Government delivering these vital works,” Assistant Minister for Northern Australia Senator Nita Green said. 

Source: Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; Queensland Government – Department of Transport and Main Roads; Roads & Infrastructure Australia