The Queensland Government is delivering an upgrade of the Bruce Highway at Gairloch Floodway to enhance safety and flood resilience along this complex and flood-prone section of the highway. Key improvements include road realignment, wide centre line treatment, and removal of a sharp curve to improve traffic flow and reduce flood-related disruptions.
Located within a 16km section of the Bruce Highway, from Ingham's southern outskirts to the Cardwell Range foothills, this area experiences regular flooding and road closures. Currently, the annual average time of submergence of this location is 1.4 days, which is expected to be reduced by more than half. The flood likelihood will drop from 54% to approximately 33% per year with the new alignment.
This project is funded by the Australian Government.
The project scope, cost and timing are subject to further planning, consideration and negotiation with the Australian Government.
Investment ID: 2129809
Detailed design was completed in December 2025. In early December 2025, we released the construction tender for the Bruce Highway (Ingham–Innisfail) program of works between Ingham and Cardwell Range, which includes the Bruce Highway (Ingham–Innisfail), Gairloch Floodway, improve safety project.
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Project planning commenced | November 2021 |
| Planning phase completed | 2023 |
| Tender for detailed design award | August 2024 |
| Detailed design commenced | September 2024 |
| Detailed design completed | December 2025 |
| Construction expected to commence | Mid-2027 (weather permitting) |
Map showing the location of a 1.6km upgrade section north of Ingham. The planned works will straighten the highway by removing an existing curve at the Gairloch Floodway, enhancing both safety and flood resilience.
Last updated: 17 February 2026
The department has been actively working with the community to address the challenges associated with the Bruce Highway from South of Ingham to the Cardwell Range.
