THE STATE OF THE BRUCE Local Mayor Determined To Receive Fair Share Of Bruce Highway $7.2 Billion Investment

Contributed By Mayor Ry Collins
Opinion Piece

The Whitsundays is known for its 74 wonderful islands but during the Christmas period our whole region was an island with our national highway cut to the south at Goorganga Plains and further to the north of Bowen.

Which is why this week’s announcement by PM Anthony Albanese that the Bruce Highway will get a $7.2 billion investment in upgrades and repairs is so exciting for our Whitsunday community. Even better is that the Federal Government have committed to work starting on priority projects this year.

I welcome this investment with open arms. From my first week in the Mayoral role, I have been very proactive in advocating for improvements to this essential route, which serves not only as a key economic corridor but also as a critical connector for families, businesses, and tourists.

For too long, Queenslanders have borne the brunt of inadequate infrastructure funding. The Bruce Highway’s deadly reputation is a stark reminder of what happens when safety is sidelined.

But with this $7.2 billion investment, we’re turning the page on a history of neglect. Safer roads mean fewer tragedies, and fewer tragedies mean stronger, more resilient communities.

This funding will enable critical upgrades such as widening narrow stretches, improving intersections, installing safety barriers, and enhancing flood resilience. These measures are not just about reducing accidents; they’re about ensuring that people get home to their loved ones safely.

It’s also an investment in our economy. A safer, more efficient Bruce Highway will enhance the flow of goods, reduce travel times, and boost tourism. It’s a win-win for both lives and livelihoods.

The federal government has also agreed to reinstate an 80:20 funding split for the national highway and the LNP Opposition leader Peter Dutton has also committed to the 80/20 funding agreement.

I will be following up my recent conversations with Infrastructure and Transport Minster Catherine King to dig deeper and ensure the “priority projects” are within our Whitsunday region.

I also have a meeting next week with the Brent Mickelberg MP, Minister for Transport and Main Roads to ensure that the State step up and play their role in the new 8—20 funding split.

Finally, I want to express my gratitude to our incredible Council roads and drainage crews.

Their swift and tireless efforts ensured that flooded roads were reopened as quickly as possible, providing a lifeline for stranded travellers in the lead-up to Christmas.

Our dedicated teams from Proserpine and Bowen worked around the clock to manage and reopen the Bruce Highway. These staff and Collinsville crews undertake the important work of patching countless potholes, clearing silt from causeways, and repairing minor scours at culverts and crossings.

Also stepping up to the plate when needed during the flooding event was our Whitsunday Coast Airport team which went above and beyond to assist stranded passengers impacted by flight cancellations due to the extreme weather.

Their professionalism and care ensured that travellers received timely updates, guidance, and support during an understandably stressful time. The airport team’s ability to manage this situation with efficiency and compassion deserves our highest praise.

Some of the damage to the Bruce Highway after the recent flooding event
A large b-double truck is caught in the flood waters and leaves the road
Photos supplied

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