Excavator Strikes Ilkley Road Bridge, Causes Major Bruce Highway Delays
An excavator being transported on the Bruce Highway struck the Ilkley Road bridge at Tanawha, Sunshine Coast, just before 9 am.
The incident caused damage to the bridge and blocked southbound lanes of the highway.
Traffic Diversions and Lane Reopening
Initially, police closed northbound lanes to allow southbound traffic to turn around. Southbound drivers were diverted via Maroochydore Road, and northbound traffic was redirected onto the Sunshine Motorway. Northbound lanes were reopened before 11 am.
Official Statement and Driver Testing
Acting Inspector Scott Wiggins stated that the area experienced significant traffic congestion. No injuries or additional collisions linked to the main incident were reported. The driver of the truck was undergoing mandatory testing.
Cause and Bridge Damage
Initial observations indicate the excavator's boom height was too high, leading to the collision with the bridge's underside.
The bridge sustained significant damage, including cracks and missing sections of its support framework, with concrete debris littering the road.
Ongoing Assessment and Southbound Lane Closure
Engineers from the Department of Transport have been called to assess the bridge's condition.
The reopening time for the southbound lanes remains undetermined.
Police have advised drivers to avoid the affected area.