Lego-like new bridge delivers $3m cost saving

A bridge construction project that Lego would likely be proud to call its own was completed almost $3 million under budget.

Mayor Clare Stewart, Federal Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien and Mark Goodwin of SGQ (right) unveil a new Tingira Park sign at the official opening of the new Orealla Bridge.

A bridge construction model that Lego would be proud to call its own has led to almost a $3 million saving in Noosa.

This 50 per cent cutback from the original $6.3 million tender was revealed at the official opening of the new Orealla Cres Bridge along David Low Way at Sunrise Beach yesterday.

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The complex build entailed the fitting together onsite of 32 concrete decks manufactured off-site at a various locations across southeast Queensland to create the 24m span.

With the help of local suppliers contractor SGQ used 40 tonnes of Australian steel, more than 210cm concrete and 140 tonnes of asphalt.

Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart said the design was the brainchild of Noosa-based businesses TOD Consulting Engineers while another local firm NEACH supplied the pedestrian handrails.

This bridge rebuild meant to last 100 years has taken its pre-fab inspiration from Lego.

"We now have a bridge with a 166-tonne rating and a lifespan of 100 years to cater for our long-term traffic needs," Cr Stewart said.

Council also resurfaced impacted sections of Orealla Cres and completed landscaping of the nearby open space.

The rebuild was delivered by council on a 50/50 funding arrangement with the Federal Government through the Bridges Renewal Program.

Member for Wide Bay Llew O'Brien said the project generated more than 50 jobs and involved 34 suppliers.

Construction started in April last year at the height of the pandemic.

"It was completed within 10 months and under budget," Mr O'Brien said.

"The bridge is used by more than 12,000 vehicles every day, so this upgrade will ensure a safer, more reliable road network to help keep Noosa's traffic and its economy running smoothly," he said

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