Douglas Shire Council has successfully completed construction of the new temporary bypass at Noah Creek, marking a major milestone in the delivery of the new dual-lane bridge.
The elevated single-lane bypass is now fully operational, providing a more reliable and resilient crossing for residents, businesses and visitors travelling to and from Cape Tribulation.
Built above high tide levels and designed to accommodate heavy vehicles, the upgraded structure replaces the previous low-level causeway that was frequently impacted by wet-season flooding and tidal conditions.
Assistance is provided by the Australian and Queensland Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the new temporary bypass would help keep Cape Tribulation connected while long-term recovery works continue.
“The completion of this stronger bypass is an important step in keeping residents, businesses and visitors moving safely to and from Cape Tribulation,” Minister McBain said.
“We know how important reliable access is for communities recovering from disaster, which is why the Albanese Government is continuing to back practical projects that make a real difference on the ground.
“We will continue to support communities to recover from and better prepare for disasters with projects like this that on that is strengthening a vital local connection and helping the region rebuild with more resilient infrastructure.”
Federal member for Leichhardt Matt Smith said the bypass would allow Daintree locals and tourists to travel smoothly through the rainforest whilst construction on the dual lane Noah Creek bridge commences.
“Keeping our communities connected is essential, and this new infrastructure is expected to prove resilient for heavy vehicles throughout the wet season and high tidal conditions,” Mr Smith said.
“All levels of government continue to work shoulder-to-shoulder to keep Australians safe – both the bypass and the new bridge are funded by the DRFA.”
State member for Cook David Kempton said locals and travellers will be pleased to see the completion of the new bridge on Noah Creek.
“The completion of the bypass will allow traffic to pass unimpeded whilst bridge works are being undertaken,” Mr Kempton said.
“This will see the entire project brought to fruition sooner.”
Douglas Shire Council Mayor Lisa Scomazzon said the completed bypass would play a critical role in keeping the community connected while the new Noah Creek Bridge is constructed.
“This bypass has been purpose-built as a strong and reliable substitute and with it now in place, construction of the new $12 million dual-lane Noah Creek Bridge (which is also DRFA funded) will now proceed,” Mayor Scomazzon said.
“To help streamline construction, the bridge components have already undergone a full trial assembly off site. This practice run has allowed crews to test the build process, identify efficiencies and ensure the bridge can be installed as quickly and efficiently as possible once work begins at Noah Creek.
“Importantly, the project remains on track for completion in December 2026.”
