Arsonist believed responsible for iconic bridge fire
BRIDGE DESTROYED
COOKTOWN detectives are investigating a suspicious fire of the McIvor River Crossing at Sandy Creek in Hope Vale which destroyed the iconic bridge.
The wooden bridge, situated 20km north of Hope Vale on McIvor Road, was totally destroyed by fire sometime between 10am and 11am on Saturday.
Whilst the bridge is over 50-years-old, it was in sound condition and primarily used by tourists as a secondary alternative route travelling to Starke Boat Ramp on Battle Camp Road.
Cooktown CIB Detective Acting Sergeant Jett Stapleton said local police conducted a patrol of the bridge about three weeks ago.
“Officers noted a heavy build-up of drift timber caught up against the structure of the bridge after recent heavy rainfalls,” Stapleton said.
“Investigation indicate driftwood was set alight which in turn set fire to the bridge structure.”
?Hope Vale Mayor, Greg McLean, today appealed for information to help police with their investigation.
“The damaged bridge does affect access for us. It appears to be deliberate so whoever is responsible has denied access to locals as well as opportunities for tourism and block holders on the northern side of the McIvor river,” Mayor McLean said.
“When we have a wet season, this road gets blocked off, so now we’ll have to persevere.
“We just need anyone with information about the fire to come forward. It may have been that the fire just got out of hand. We just need you to come forward.”
Quote police reference number QP1601718918 with any information you can provide to assist police.
Anyone with information which could assist with this matter should contact Crime Stoppers anonymously via 1800 333 000 or at crimestoppers.com.au 24hrs a day.
