A $27 million bridge across a lake has officially opened and is expected to help unlock a future town centre.
Developer Stockland unveiled the Birtinya Pedestrian Bridge, a significant piece of infrastructure that spans Lake Kawana.
The 130m cable-stay bridge is expected to provide an essential east-west link, and is part of $350m in transport and community infrastructure investment across the area.
Stockland development director Matt Patullo said the opening of the structure strengthened connectivity between key locations, including the Sunshine Coast Health Precinct and future Birtinya Central Town Centre, and the Sunshine Coast Stadium sports and recreation precinct that is set to play a key role in the 2032 Games.
“The opening of the Birtinya Pedestrian Bridge is a proud moment for Stockland and the wider Sunshine Coast community,” he said.
“Great communities are built on connection, and this bridge creates a new link between the places where people live, work, shop, exercise and come together.
“More than a transport link, this bridge is a key piece of infrastructure that will help unlock the future Birtinya Central Town Centre and support the continued growth of one of the Sunshine Coast’s most important health and employment precincts.
“This bridge is one of many investments helping bring the long-term vision for Birtinya to life and creating a more connected future for the Sunshine Coast community.”
The opening of the bridge follows the approval of a refreshed masterplan for Birtinya Central, which outlines the vision for the mixed-use destination that will include up to 2600 homes alongside retail, commercial and community spaces.
The masterplan places a strong emphasis on connectivity, walkability and high-quality public space, with the bridge forming a key part of the integrated movement network.
Mr Patullo was joined at the opening by Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli and councillor Tim Burns, alongside Cycling Without Age deputy chair Tim Rogers and volunteer riders.
Mayor Natoli said the new bridge was a significant community asset that would strengthen the region’s active transport network, especially within the growing Birtinya precinct.
“By providing a direct link across Lake Kawana, this bridge encourages more people to choose to walk and ride for their local everyday journeys, supporting healthier lifestyles and reducing reliance on cars for short trips,” she said.
“Thank you to Stockland for delivering this important piece of infrastructure. It reflects our shared commitment to creating a more connected, walkable and totally accessible Sunshine Coast community into the future.”
The bridge delivers a direct connection between Sportsmans Parade, near Venue 114, and the Birtinya Town Centre.
At about 4m wide, it has been designed as an inclusive and accessible route for all users, accommodating pedestrians, cyclists, scooters, prams, wheelchairs and other mobility devices.
On the water, a clearance of up to 3m at its centre also accommodates water-based leisure craft like kayaks.
The bridge will transition to a Sunshine Coast Council asset.
Together with the Southbank Park Bridge, which opened in late 2025, and a further 70m pedestrian bridge, it forms part of a broader network of walking and cycling connections that will ultimately create a complete loop around Lake Kawana.
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