Bruce Highway Safety Upgrade At Tully Fast-Tracked

Main construction is now underway on the Bruce Highway in Tully between Dean Road and Tully High School, delivering important safety upgrades as part of the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program. Photo source: Department of Transport and Main Roads

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A major safety upgrade on the Bruce Highway at Tully is now underway ahead of schedule, bringing forward long-awaited improvements for one of Far North Queensland’s key transport corridors.

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The project, located between Dean Road and Tully State High School, forms part of the jointly funded $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program, the largest single investment ever made into the highway.

Early works began in August last year, with main construction now ramping up on the $25 million upgrade, which is expected to be completed by mid-2027, weather and construction conditions permitting.

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The upgrade will include road and shoulder widening, a new wide centre line treatment, intersection improvements at Dean Road, vegetation clearing, drainage works and culvert installations, all aimed at reducing the risk of crashes along the busy stretch.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the investment highlighted a strong commitment to improving safety along the Bruce Highway.

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“Works to improve the Bruce Highway are underway across the state, funded by this historic $9 billion investment,” Minister King said.

“The Albanese Government is deeply committed to improving road safety on the Bruce to help save lives and support the communities and industries that rely on this critical route.

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“We are providing the long-term certainty needed to make the Bruce Highway safer, stronger and more resilient to FNQ’s wet season.”

Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the program was already delivering benefits across the state.

“Safety along the Bruce is receiving a major boost under the landmark $9 billion program,” Minister Mickelberg said.

“Queenslanders are seeing the benefits as we accelerate these safety focused works at priority locations north of Gympie, and we’ll continue to drive forward delivering them across the regions.

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“This safety-focused program will play a crucial role complementing various other activities aimed at enhancing flood resilience and capacity along the Bruce Highway.

“Under the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program, further significant future upgrades will be rolled out strategically across far north Queensland with overall completion targeting 2030.”

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Assistant Minister for Northern Australia and Senator for Queensland Nita Green said improving safety on the Bruce Highway would also support regional economies.

“Upgrading the Bruce Highway improves safety and supports the local economy by ensuring our primary producers and tourism operators can travel across far north Queensland with greater confidence and fewer delays,” Senator Green said.

“By targeting this high-risk stretch between Dean Road and Tully High School, we are delivering the modern, high-standard infrastructure that the Cassowary Coast deserves.

“This is what delivering for regional Queensland looks like.”

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Member for Hinchinbrook Wayde Chiesa welcomed the early start to construction, describing it as a positive step for the local community.

“The early start on works is welcome news for the Tully community,” Mr Chiesa said.

“The Bruce Highway is the lifeline of far north Queensland, and every safety improvement we can make on this corridor matters enormously for local families, commuters and freight operators.

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“Getting this project underway ahead of schedule is exactly the kind of action locals have been calling for, and the Crisafulli Government is delivering.

“I encourage motorists to be patient and observe the changed traffic conditions while these important works are completed, the end result will be a safer road for everyone travelling through Tully.”

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During construction, motorists can expect temporary speed limit reductions, single-lane traffic operations and variable message signage to help manage changed conditions and ensure the safety of both road users and workers.

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