UPDATE – 05 November 2025
Our steel fabricator has experienced an unforeseen delay and as a result, the installation of the refurbished Oak Forest Road Bridge has been rescheduled to Monday, 17 November 2025.
Bridge Closure: Monday, 17 November to COB Thursday, 20 November 2025
The temporary bridge will remain in place until then.
Council appreciates the community’s patience and understanding while this important work is completed.
UPDATE – 30 October 2025
We have been advised that there will be a further delay to the bridge reinstatement due to ongoing illness that is affecting the workflow of the steel substructure offsite. It is specialised work that requires qualified staff which cannot be completed until they are back on deck.
At this stage, the Oak Forest Road bridge works have been rescheduled to commence:
Tuesday 11 November 2025 – COB Friday, 14 November 2025
The temporary bridge will remain in place until then and we appreciate your understanding.
We will provide an update if there is a change to the schedule.
Council apologises for the delay in reopening the upgraded bridge.
UPDATE – 27 October 2025
UPDATE – 8 October 2025
The timber deck has been removed.
A temporary bridge will be in place to provide access while the steel subframe is off site being treated and fabricated.
It is expected that the temporary bridge will be in operation for approximately 2 weeks.
Residents are advised of the changed traffic conditions and requested to drive safely.
The bridge will be closed again for approximately 3 days when the refurbished bridge is reinstated later in the month.
Residents will be advised accordingly when specific dates are finalised.
ORIGINAL POST – 26 August 2025
Mareeba Shire Council advises that the Barron River Bridge on Oak Forest Road will be temporarily closed to allow for essential refurbishment and strengthening of the bridge.
The existing timber structure has reached the end of its service life, and these works are necessary to ensure the long-term safety and reliability of the bridge.
The contractor has made a change to the work method compared to the previous notice which has enabled a temporary bridge to be provided which will reduce the overall time that residents will need to detour through Mona Mona.
CLOSURE DETAILS:
- Bridge Works Commence: Tuesday, 7 October 2025
- Full Bridge Closure – 3 Days: 7–9 October 2025 (to dismantle the existing bridge)
- TEMPORARY Bridge in place for vehicle access in between closures: 10–26 October 2025 (approximate dates)
- Final Bridge Closure – 3 Days: 27-30 October 2025 (to reassemble the updated bridge – dates may change slightly, we will provide an update if the date changes)
The total full closure will be for six days (three at the start and three at the end of the replacement period, with a temporary bridge available for vehicles between these days).
Traffic Detour:
Vehicles will be redirected via Armstrong Road, Mona Mona Road, and Black Mountain Road. Signage will be in place to guide all motorists.
We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we complete these critical works.