Disaster funding fast-tracked to build better bridge on Maggie Island

An investment of $7.4 million from the Australian and Queensland Governments will ensure a critical piece of infrastructure on Townsville’s Magnetic Island is built back better.

Sooning Street Bridge over Gustav Creek, a main thoroughfare through Nelly Bay on Maggie's east, will be replaced after repeat disasters during the 2024-25 summer months left the structure damaged beyond repair.

The bridge was demolished earlier this month to prevent further impacts on the sensitive local environment, including the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef.

Set to be built to a stronger and more resilient standard, a new 38-metre bridge will reconnect the island and restore ease of access for locals and visitors alike.

Funds for the upgrade have been secured by Townsville City Council through the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

Acknowledging the importance of the bridge for connectivity on Magnetic Island, funding was fast-tracked through the DRFA so council could push ahead without delay.

Favourable recent weather has allowed for comprehensive clean-up activities to be carried out, removing the remains of the old bridge, and for early engineering works to be undertaken.

Through the Queensland Reconstruction Authority the Queensland Government will make sure council is well supported every step of the way till project completion.

Townsville City Council is working with contractors BMD Constructions and AECOM to finalise designs for the new bridge.

Once plans are finalised and all approvals signed off it's anticipated early-stage works will commence immediately, including the procurement of precast beams and piles.

Weather permitting, council anticipate the new Sooning Street Bridge will be ready for public use before the end of the year.

Upfront investment in more resilient assets saves money for all levels of government during future disasters, helping create a stronger, safer Queensland in the face of a changing climate.