A major construction milestone has been reached on the Rockhampton Ring Road, with the first locally manufactured girders now arriving on site for the Capricorn Highway connector bridge.

This milestone marks another step forward in delivery of one of Central Queensland's most significant transport projects and highlights the important role local industry is playing in building the region's future.

Once complete, the Rockhampton Ring Road will improve safety, strengthen flood resilience and support the more efficient movement of people and freight through Central Queensland by reducing interactions between heavy vehicles and urban traffic.

The arrival of the first girders signals the transition into the next phase of construction for the Capricorn Highway connector bridge – one of the project’s largest structures and a key piece of infrastructure on the new route.

A total of 150 Super T-girders will be installed on the 841-metre-long bridge, with all girders being manufactured locally in Rockhampton.

Across the project, 976 girders are being manufactured locally to support the construction of 17 bridges, showcasing the capability of Central Queensland industry and creating opportunities for local businesses and workers.

Another key milestone has been achieved with the reopening of Alexandra Street on 20 July by the Rockhampton Regional Council, following significant progress on construction of the Alexandra Street overpass.

The temporary closure allowed completion of major foundation works, including bridge footings and the central pier, while also enabling flood immunity improvements and upgrades to accommodate oversize and over mass vehicles.

The $1.98 billion Rockhampton Ring Road is jointly funded, with the Australian Government providing $1.4 billion and the Queensland Government providing $580 million.

Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King:

“The Rockhampton Ring Road is showing visible progress on the ground and providing long-term benefits for Central Queensland communities and industry. 

“Construction is continuing to gather pace on key elements of the project, including the Fitzroy River crossing and major bridge works.

“This significant investment is supporting local jobs and industry while delivering critical infrastructure for the people of Central Queensland. 

Quotes attributable to Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg:

“The arrival of the first locally manufactured girders was a significant milestone and another clear sign the Rockhampton Ring Road is moving ahead.

"The Crisafulli Government is focused on delivering the critical infrastructure Queensland communities need, and it's fantastic to see local industry delivering this project.

"These works are supporting local jobs, backing local manufacturers and helping build a safer, more resilient transport network for Central Queensland."

Quotes attributable to Federal Assistant Minister for Northern Australia and Senator for Queensland Nita Green: 

“Seeing these massive girders arrive on site, built locally, is a monumental day for Central Queensland in terms of supporting local businesses and local jobs.

“We are delivering flood-resilient infrastructure to ease congestion on the Bruce Highway and ensure our local manufacturing and construction industries reap the rewards.”

Quotes attributable to State Member for Rockhampton Donna Kirkland:

“This milestone is another sign the project is continuing to deliver for the community. 

“People across Rockhampton can now see this project taking shape right across the region.

“It’s fantastic to see locally manufactured components being used on such a major project, showcasing the skills and capability we have right here in Central Queensland.

“Every major milestone reached brings us one step closer to a safer, more connected and more resilient road network for Rockhampton and the wider region.”