Carl Katter Bridge Replacement

Project Overview

Client: Cloncurry Shire Council  |  Road: Ernest Henry Road  |  Role: Design management, procurement of Principal Contractor and Superintendent services

Before rebranding as In8, Curry Project Management was engaged to manage the full lifecycle of the Carl Katter Bridge Replacement. The works replaced an ageing structure with a new, realigned and elevated two-lane bridge designed to improve safety, flood immunity and long-term performance. In8 coordinated demolition, piling and substructure construction, girder installation, earthworks for approaches and final surfacing in accordance with TMR requirements.

Key Areas of Responsibility

• Managing safe demolition of the existing bridge and overseeing construction of a new realigned bridge with an elevated two-lane carriageway for improved traffic flow and safety.
• Overseeing construction of new embankments and approaches, ensuring correct alignment, elevation and drainage.
• Ensuring approaches were bitumen-sealed and the bridge deck finished with an asphalt wearing course, with appropriate crossfall and runoff characteristics for longevity and safety.

Specific Responsibilities Under the Contract

In8’s project management team was responsible for:

• Managing the safe demolition of the existing bridge, including traffic staging, environmental controls and minimisation of impacts to the surrounding area.
• Overseeing substructure and piling works, including 6 × 900 mm diameter bored in-situ piles with 7 m rock sockets, delivered in accordance with TMR specifications and standards.
• Managing installation of 17 pre-stressed concrete girders for the new bridge deck, ensuring accurate placement, stressing and connection to the substructure.
• Supervising construction of the new embankments and approaches, including earthworks, formation, pavement layers and drainage.
• Overseeing bitumen sealing of approaches and application of an asphalt wearing course on the bridge deck, designed with a crown and 3 % crossfall to achieve effective surface water runoff.

Procurement and Delivery

In8 (then operating as Curry Project Management) managed procurement of the Principal Contractor via a structured tender process, ensuring:

• Prequalified contractors with experience in TMR-standard bridge works were invited and evaluated on capability, safety performance, methodology and value for money.
• Local suppliers, materials and services were used where practical to support regional economic outcomes and efficient delivery.
• Regular site visits, inspections and Superintendent directions ensured construction works adhered to the contract, quality requirements and environmental and WHS standards.

Submissions and Compliance

In8 managed submissions and compliance processes, including:

• Coordinating submission of design and construction documentation, including drawings, ITPs, material certifications and pre-/post-construction evidence, to Cloncurry Shire Council and relevant authorities.
• Preparing monthly progress reports summarising key milestones, physical progress, expenditures and any scope adjustments or variations required during construction.

Contractor Coordination

Acting as Superintendent, In8 ensured that the contractor:

• Completed piling and substructure works safely and in full compliance with design specifications and TMR bridge design standards.
• Installed precast deck units (girders and deck elements) accurately, including placement, bearing installation and structural connections.
• Constructed approaches and pavement works to the correct height, alignment and crossfall, with bitumen-sealed surfaces and a durable asphalt layer on the bridge deck.

As-Built Construction Data

In8 ensured that detailed as-built records were kept throughout the project, including:

• Documentation of piling logs, substructure dimensions, girder schedules and deck construction details.
• Survey data confirming levels, alignment and crossfalls of the bridge and approaches.
• Photographic evidence and inspection records demonstrating compliance with TMR specifications and the contract.

As-built data was compiled and submitted to Cloncurry Shire Council and other stakeholders, forming a complete record for future maintenance and asset management.

Reporting and Acquittal

In8 managed all project reporting obligations, including:

• Routine progress and financial reports tracking program, costs, risks and key milestones for Council and any funding bodies.
• Preparation and lodgement of the final acquittal report, including evidence of completed works, final costs, as-built documentation and any residual obligations.

Outcomes

The Carl Katter Bridge Replacement delivered a modern, resilient bridge that meets TMR specifications and significantly improves traffic safety and network reliability on Ernest Henry Road. The project showcases In8’s (previously Curry Project Management) capability in managing complex regional bridge projects from design and procurement through to delivery, commissioning and acquittal.