A critical freight link in one of Queensland's most productive regions is stronger than ever, with the official opening of the new Bill Murphy Bridge on Saraji Road at Isaac (in the state's central east).
Saraji Road plays a key role in supporting the movement of resources from Central Queensland's Bowen Basin to export, reinforcing Isaac's contribution to the Queensland and national economy.
The official opening of the Bill Murphy Bridge (formerly Phillips Creek Bridge) marks a major milestone for connectivity between Dysart and Moranbah.
Delivered by Isaac Regional Council in partnership with the Australian and Queensland governments, the project replaces the previous 35-metre-long structure with a new 100-metre-long bridge designed to improve safety, freight efficiency and flood resilience along this critical route.
The bridge has been officially named the Bill Murphy Bridge following community consultation, recognising the significant contribution of Bill Murphy to the Dysart district.
Dysart itself was established on land formerly owned by Bill Murphy, and his contribution included the donation of land for key community facilities such as the Pony Club, Rodeo Grounds and Motocross.
Construction began in February 2025, with contractor Davbridge Constructions completing works across a one-kilometre site.
The Bill Murphy Bridge features two 3.5-metre-wide traffic lanes, one-metre-wide shoulders, improved approaches and a higher deck to better withstand flood events.
The $21 million project was jointly funded by the Australian Government ($14.4 million), Queensland Government ($3.6 million) and Isaac Regional Council ($3 million).
The upgrade is expected to significantly reduce flood related closures and improve year-round access for motorists and freight operators relying on this key corridor.
Quotes attributable to Federal Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator Queensland Anthony Chisholm:
"Opening the Bill Murphy Bridge is a milestone moment for the Isaac community, providing a safer, more resilient crossing that can withstand extreme weather events.
"By upgrading this crossing, we are backing local industry and ensuring better, faster journeys for residents and businesses in Central Queensland.
"This bridge is a testament to what we can achieve through the Albanese Government's partnership with the Queensland Government and Isaac Regional Council."
Quotes attributable to State Assistant Minister for Primary Industry Development, Water and Western Queensland and State Member for Gregory Sean Dillon:
"This new bridge is about keeping Central Queensland moving and keeping our mining and regional economies strong.
"Saraji Road is a vital freight link, and this upgrade means safer, more reliable access for workers, businesses and communities right across the Bowen Basin.
"The Bill Murphy Bridge is built to last - higher, stronger and more resilient - so it can better withstand flood events and keep people and freight moving year‑round.
"This project shows what can be achieved when all levels of government work together to deliver real infrastructure that supports regional Queensland.
"By investing in critical transport infrastructure like this, we're backing regional jobs, supporting industry and strengthening supply chains that benefit the entire state."
Quotes attributable to Mayor of Isaac Region Kelly Vea Vea:
"The project is critical to keeping one of Queensland's most productive regions moving.
"Saraji Road is a key freight route for Isaac, and when it goes down, it impacts supply chains, productivity and the people who rely on it every day.
"This new bridge delivers a stronger, higher and more reliable connection, reducing flood impacts and ensuring our region keeps moving, because when Isaac thrives, Queensland thrives."
