A bold community proposal in Far North Queensland could see a major new piece of infrastructure double as a haven for local wildlife. A Cairns resident has launched a public petition urging authorities to transform the soon-to-be-built new Barron River bridge into a dedicated sanctuary for flying foxes.
Inspired by a Texan Success Story
The petition, created by local man Jaxson Tilbury, draws direct inspiration from a world-famous example in the United States. The concept is modelled on the Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin, Texas, which is home to the largest urban bat colony in the world. That bridge attracts thousands of tourists every year who come to witness the spectacular evening emergence of over 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats.
Mr Tilbury believes a similar, purpose-designed setup on the new $300 million Barron River bridge could provide a much-needed solution for Cairns. The city has long grappled with conflicts between its significant population of spectacled flying foxes and human residents, particularly when the bats roost in suburban areas.
A Potential Win-Win for Cairns and its Wildlife
The proposed plan envisions more than just slapping a few bat boxes on a bridge. Advocates are calling for the integration of specialised bat-friendly design features directly into the new structure's construction. This could include creating specific crevices, sheltered ledges, and textured surfaces that mimic the animals' natural roosting habitats.
Proponents argue this would deliver a dual benefit. Firstly, it would offer a permanent, secure home for the vulnerable spectacled flying foxes, a species crucial for pollinating native forests. Secondly, it could become a major eco-tourism attraction for the region, drawing visitors to see the nightly fly-out, much like the famous Turtle Watch tours.
The petition has been formally submitted to the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR), the agency responsible for the bridge project. A TMR spokesperson confirmed they are aware of the community interest and stated that "all feedback will be considered" as the project progresses.
Addressing Past Conflicts and Future Hopes
The push for a bat bridge comes against a backdrop of ongoing tension. In recent years, Cairns Regional Council has undertaken controversial dispersal programs to move flying fox colonies from suburban parks like the Edmonton library and Fogarty Park. These efforts have had mixed results and sparked debate within the community.
Mr Tilbury's petition suggests that providing an attractive, alternative roost on the bridge could naturally draw bats away from conflict zones. The new bridge is part of the Cairns Southern Access Corridor (Stage 3) upgrade, a project aimed at reducing traffic congestion. Construction is slated to begin in mid-2025.
While the engineering and ecological feasibility studies are yet to be done, the idea has captured the imagination of many locals. It presents a forward-thinking opportunity to blend major infrastructure with environmental conservation and community benefit, potentially creating a unique landmark for Cairns that celebrates, rather than battles, its native fauna.
