Traffic has resumed on the Bruce Highway after an excavator strike damaged an overpass at Tanawha on the Sunshine Coast, resulting in a prolonged closure and continuing speed restrictions.
Bridge Strike At Tanawha
Southbound lanes of the Bruce Highway were closed after an excavator being transported on a truck struck the Ilkley Road overpass at Tanawha, causing structural damage and debris to fall onto the roadway.
The incident occurred just before 9 a.m. on Friday, 6 February, prompting the shutdown of southbound lanes for approximately 10 hours while safety assessments and debris removal were carried out.
Northbound lanes were briefly closed earlier in the day to allow traffic to turn around as part of traffic management operations.
Traffic Diversions And Initial Response
During the closure, southbound traffic was diverted via Maroochydore Road, while northbound vehicles were redirected to the Sunshine Motorway.
Engineers attended the site to assess the extent of the damage, with emergency services remaining on scene during the response. No serious injuries were reported in connection with the incident.
Reopening With Reduced Speed Limits
Southbound lanes reopened on Friday night following initial structural assessments and the removal of loose debris. A reduced speed limit of 60km/h remains in place for southbound traffic, while northbound speed limits are unchanged.
The Ilkley Road overpass remains closed and barricaded, with temporary protective wrapping installed to prevent further debris from falling.
Ongoing Works And Expected Delays
Further investigations and planning are continuing, with permanent repair works expected to take place over the coming weeks. Additional southbound lane closures may be required and are expected to be scheduled overnight to minimise disruption.
Congestion is expected to continue as traffic adjusts to changed conditions, with motorists advised to allow extra travel time and drive to conditions.
Published 7-Feb-2026
Photo Credit: AndrewWallaceMP/Facebook
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