A 100-year-old bridge has been replaced via a “complex, rare and logistically challenging” project.
The aged 21m-long timber bridge, at 298 River Road, Maroochy River, was traditionally used for transporting cane via rail from farms to the sugar mill.
But increased traffic loads and a steady stream of large trucks carrying tens of thousands of tonnes of material meant the bridge was at risk of failure.
Reaching the end of its viable life, the bridge was identified to be replaced with a new one commissioned by Sunshine Coast Council at a cost of $650,000, including design and construction.
Queensland companies Timber Restoration Services and Wood Research and Development, specialising in innovative timber bridge designs, were engaged for the project.
Video courtesy of Shane Palethorpe and drone pilot Corey Josland.
Local staff installed the replacement bridge which came from Oregon in the United States.
Sunshine Coast Council Division 9 Councillor Maria Suarez said the project was logistically challenging but was needed to ensure access and longevity for the local community.
“The original, century-old, three-span bridge was designed for minimal traffic and up to 40-tonne loads, but more recently the weather and neighbouring developments saw an increase in traffic movements and load capacity up to 55 tonnes,” Cr Suarez said.
“While the bridge was maintained and upgraded over the years, the replacement was critical in providing a safe and reliable crossing for connecting our growing communities into the future.”
The new bridge is made from a softwood coast Douglas-fir, native to the western coast of the US and Canada.
The softwood was pressure treated to laminate the wood, which ensures its longevity for the next 100 years by protecting it from the coastal elements.
“I’m pleased the bridge was installed within five days thanks to a meticulously planned, precision operation with minimal inconvenience to the community,” Cr Suarez said.
“The new bridge now provides a durable and long-lasting solution for all road users.”
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