MSF Sugar to build new cane rail bridge over Barron River
Plans are in the works to build a new cane rail bridge across the Barron River after the previous crossing was destroyed by the Cyclone Jasper flood event.
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Plans are in the works to build a new cane rail bridge across the Barron River in response to the previous crossing being destroyed by the Cyclone Jasper flood event.
MSF Sugar applied to Cairns Regional Council earlier this month for an operational work permit to allow the construction of the replacement bridge.
Since December 2023 when a historic rain event caused major flooding of the Barron River, the bridge connecting the train line adjacent to Lower Freshwater Road and the cane fields on the northern bank of the river has been out of action.
It’s proposed that the new 20m structure will be built 470m downstream of the existing rail bridge, according to MSF planning documents.
“The new cane rail bridge location allows a minimal impact on the rail alignment curve connecting to the existing rail line as well as providing enough of a buffer distance from the operating rail line,” the development application reads.
“The proposed alignment for the new cane rail bridge presents a significantly more direct route compared to the existing infrastructure.
“This enables the construction of a shorter track, thereby reducing environmental impact.”
Stage one works to be undertaken during the 2025 cane crushing season include the clearing of trees and earthworks at both banks, driving of piles into the mud and the construction of some piers.
In 2026, after the wet season, the remaining piers will be built along with the road crossings and the demolition of the original cane rail bridge.
It’s understood that during the 2024 and 2025 crushing season cane usually carted by train from fields on the northern bank of the river had been hauled by road.
In explaining the need for the new bridge, MSF Sugar said the cane rail bridge was essential infrastructure supporting the local sugar industry.
“Failure to replace it would increase pressure on the state-controlled road network, resulting in broader impacts to the surrounding community,” the application states.
“Doing nothing and an alternate existing route was not feasible.”
Originally published as MSF Sugar to build new cane rail bridge over Barron River
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