February 2, 2026
Detailed design work will begin soon for the upgrade of the Back Creek Bridge at Cooyar following the completion of minor safety works at the site.
A State Government statement said technical investigations were now under way, including surveys, soil sampling and cultural heritage assessments to inform the detailed design.
Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington said the upgrade would provide two traffic lanes on the bridge, improve the New England Highway and Cooyar–Rangemore Road intersection and upgrade McDougall and Fergus streets (the Cooyar Hotel corner).
The project would also improve heavy-vehicle stopping areas through Cooyar.
“This project has been a priority for our community for many years, and I have been fighting for this upgrade since 2017. Planning is now complete, and detailed design work is under way so construction can begin,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“These works will improve safety, support economic growth and strengthen liveability for locals and freight operators who rely on this key route.
“I want to thank the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg, for travelling the road with me to see firsthand the safety issues that need addressing.”
Minister Mickelberg said the approach to Back Creek Bridge was well known for rear-end crashes, particularly when drivers failed to give way at the one-way crossing.
- Related article: LNP Promises To Upgrade Bridge
