Council and plantation owner agree to upgrade bridge

Travel times to reach the coast will be cut for Bauple and Tiaro residents if a Council proposal to have the Golden Gate Bridge in Tahiti Road upgraded is successful.

The bridge, owned by HQ Plantations, is on a forestry road that is also used by Fraser Coast residents to reach the Cooloola Coast Road.

The bridge was closed in 2017 and concrete barriers were installed to stop vehicles crossing.

At a recent meeting HQPlantations agreed to upgrade the bridge if Council contributed $100,000 towards the project.

“Council agreed in recognition of the community benefit that the bridge provides for residents in the Tiaro and Bauple districts,” Cr Phil Truscott said.

“I am grateful that HQPlantations agreed to talk with Council and saw that while the bridge was built to access the plantation, it was also a vital community link.

“Together we have been able to create a positive outcome for the community.”

At the completion of the works, the ownership of the Golden Gate Bridge and its ongoing maintenance will remain with HQPlantations.

HQPlantations will also upgrade and maintain Missings Bridge as part of its fire management plan.