The Queensland Government has awarded a major contract to kick off the next stage of early works for the Sunshine Coast’s Mooloolah River Interchange (MRI).
McIlwain Civil Engineering and SEE Civil Joint Venture will deliver the works, including major earthworks and embankment construction to prepare the site for the full interchange upgrade.
This early works package will see tens of thousands of tonnes of material moved to build a strong foundation for the new interchange infrastructure.
The works will reshape the interchange in preparation for The Wave Stage 3 (Metro), with the interchange upgrade designed to support the future metro corridor and improve traffic flow through one of the Coast’s busiest pinch points.
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said the Mooloolah River Interchange upgrade was a gamechanger for the Sunshine Coast.
“The Crisafulli Government is delivering the infrastructure needed to support one of Queensland’s fastest-growing regions, which is why we’re delivering The Wave all the way to the airport,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.
“After years of broken promises by Labor, these early works on The Wave are another way we are delivering the largest transport infrastructure investment ever planned for the Sunshine Coast.”
New maps released today show where The Wave will run between the Sunshine Coast University Hospital and Mountain Creek, including confirmed corridor alignment and station locations.
The Wave Stage 3 will deliver a high-capacity, high-frequency metro-style service connecting key growth areas, major employment hubs and essential services across the Sunshine Coast. The upgrades will also integrate with the future heavy passenger rail connection at Birtinya.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the upgrade was critical to uplifting safety for thousands of motorists every day.
“Both the MRI and The Wave will reduce congestion, improve safety and support a high-frequency metro system that connects people to jobs, health care and education.”
Investigations are continuing for the corridor north of Mountain Creek through to Maroochydore CBD and the Sunshine Coast Airport, with final corridor details expected in 2027 as planning accelerates for the next stage of the project.
