Bruce Highway $481M contract awarded for Cairns Southern Access Corridor Stage Three

The biggest road project in Far North Queensland has awarded a construction contract for $481 million.

The HSA Group comprising of John Holland, Seymour Whyte and AECOM have been awarded the construction contract for the Bruce Highway, Cairns Southern Access Corridor Stage Three – Edmonton to Gordonvale Stage Three project.

The HSA Group comprises of John Holland, Seymour Whyte and AECOM Group.

Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the project would significantly improve safety on the busy two-lane section of the Bruce Highway between Brisbane and Cairns.

“This significant infrastructure investment in the Far North region will deliver an upgrade to an essential section of the Bruce Highway,” Mr. McCormack said.

He said the HSA Group has an excellent track record of successfully delivering major infrastructure projects in the North Queensland region.

Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said construction of the $481 million jointly funded project was on track to start in 2020.

“This project will duplicate and upgrade 10.5km of the Bruce Highway and relocate 4.7 kilometres of the North Coast rail line,” Mr. Bailey said.

He said once complete it will provide a link for the Bruce Highway from Gordonvale to Cairns CBD.

“As part of the tender process, the potential contractors demonstrated a commitment to engaging local employees and businesses.”

“Tenderers were required to include information on how they would deliver the project using local personnel, resources, suppliers and subcontractors.”

Works are expected to be completed in 2023, weather permitting.

The Australian Government has committed $384.8 million to the Bruce Highway, Cairns Southern Access Corridor Stage 3 – Edmonton to Gordonvale project with the Queensland Government contributing $96.2 million.

The project is hoped to support 466 jobs over its life cycle.