General News
17 September, 2026
Traffic light-first in 20 years
WORK is underway on a major safety upgrade at a key Far North intersection south of Innisfail – bringing the Cassowary Coast region its first new set of permanent traffic lights in nearly two decades.
WORK is underway on a major safety upgrade at a key Far North intersection south of Innisfail – bringing the Cassowary Coast region its first new set of permanent traffic lights in nearly two decades.
The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) is installing traffic signals at the junction of the Bruce Highway and Mourilyan Harbour Road as part of a comprehensive overhaul designed to improve safety and boost regional freight efficiency.
The intersection serves as a primary access point for heavy vehicles travelling to and from the Port of Mourilyan, while also connecting the local township to the highway corridor.
The installation marks the first time permanent traffic signals have been erected anywhere in the Cassowary Coast region since April 2007, when signals were installed at the intersection of Ernest Street and the Bruce Highway in Innisfail.
In addition to traffic signals, the project will feature a new signalised pedestrian crossing, upgraded footpaths, enhanced on-road cycling infrastructure and refreshed line marking.
Transport authorities expect the works to improve safety.
Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said the investment was part of a targeted push to reduce crashes on Queensland’s busiest highway.
“The Albanese government is delivering the largest ever investment in Bruce Highway safety because we want safer journeys for the communities, freight operators and visitors who rely on this vital route every day,” Ms King said.
“This upgrade at Mourilyan will improve safety for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians while supporting freight access to the Port of Mourilyan and the broader regional economy.”
The works are being funded through the jointly supported $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program, an initiative targeting priority safety upgrades between Gympie and Cairns.
Alongside the Mourilyan project, pavement strengthening works are currently underway across 10 locations between Bowen and Ingham to build highway resilience and durability.
Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg noted that the program focuses on delivering practical safety fixes where they are most needed.
“The installation of traffic signals, improved pedestrian facilities and upgraded cycling infrastructure will make it safer and easier for people travelling through Mourilyan,” Mr Mickelberg said.
“Every improvement delivered through this program helps create a safer, more reliable highway for the people and industries that depend on it.”
Site preparation and construction at the Mourilyan Harbour Road intersection is well underway, with full completion expected by mid-2027, subject to weather conditions.
Motorists are advised that temporary traffic changes, including reduced speed limits and short delays, will be in place during construction.
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