coles creek

Shots Fired on Bruce Highway at Coles Creek: What We Know

A stretch of the Bruce Highway, a major artery for Queensland, was thrown into lockdown on Friday, May 9, 2025, following reports of shots fired in the Coles Creek area, near Gympie. The incident triggered a significant police response and an emergency declaration, causing disruption and concern for travellers and residents alike. Here's a breakdown of what happened, what we know, and what it means for the region.

Bruce Highway Shut Down After Gunfire Near Gympie

Reports of shots fired near Maher Road in Coles Creek reached emergency services just after 12:15 pm on Friday. The Queensland Police Service (QPS) swiftly responded, establishing an exclusion zone encompassing Maher Road and the Bruce Highway in both directions. This action effectively shut down a critical section of the highway south of Gympie, impacting traffic flow and raising alarms across the Sunshine Coast and beyond.

The initial response included an emergency declaration under the Public Safety Preservation Act (PSPA), granting police additional powers to manage the situation and ensure public safety. Residents within the exclusion zone were advised to stay indoors, and the public was urged to avoid the area.

Recent Updates: Emergency Declaration Revoked, No Injuries Reported

Following a thorough investigation, the QPS revoked the PSPA declaration later the same day, confirming that there was no ongoing threat to the public. While the highway closure caused significant delays, authorities reported no injuries as a result of the incident.

• May 9, 2025, 12:15 pm: Initial reports of shots fired near Maher Road in Coles Creek.
• May 9, 2025, Afternoon: Police establish exclusion zone and declare a PSPA emergency. Bruce Highway closed in both directions.
• May 9, 2025, Evening: PSPA declaration revoked. Police confirm no ongoing threat to the public. No injuries reported.

According to Queensland Police News, the PSPA declaration was revoked on May 9, 2025, indicating a shift in the perceived risk level. This revocation suggests that the immediate threat had been neutralized, allowing authorities to scale back the emergency response.

Coles Creek: More Than Just a Highway Incident

Coles Creek, while thrust into the headlines due to this incident, is typically known as a quiet rural area. It's located near Gympie, a town with a rich history stemming from the gold rush era. The region is characterized by its natural beauty and proximity to outdoor recreational areas.

Interestingly, there's also a Coles Creek State Park in New York State, USA. While completely unrelated to the Queensland incident, it highlights the diverse uses of the name "Coles Creek." The New York park offers camping, boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities, providing a stark contrast to the tense situation that unfolded in Queensland. Coles Creek State Park has wooded and open campsites near a swimming beach on Lake St. Lawrence. The lake is ideal for boating and fishing, and a marina on the mouth of Coles Creek lies just north of the park entrance. The park also has a playground, playing fields, and a large pavilion.

Immediate Effects: Traffic Disruption and Community Concern

The immediate impact of the shooting incident was significant disruption to traffic flow on the Bruce Highway. As a major transportation route connecting Brisbane and other key Queensland destinations, the highway closure caused delays for commuters, freight transport, and tourists.

Beyond the immediate logistical challenges, the incident also raised concerns within the local community. Reports of gunfire can understandably create anxiety and fear, prompting residents to seek information and reassurance from authorities. The police response, including the emergency declaration and exclusion zone, aimed to contain the situation and protect public safety.

Future Outlook: Investigation and Reassurance

While the immediate threat has subsided, the investigation into the shooting incident is likely ongoing. Police will be working to determine the circumstances surrounding the event, identify any individuals involved, and prevent future occurrences.

Moving forward, it will be crucial for authorities to maintain open communication with the public, providing updates on the investigation and addressing any lingering concerns. Reassuring the community and restoring a sense of safety and security will be paramount.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparedness, even in seemingly peaceful areas. While the events at Coles Creek were undoubtedly unsettling, the swift response from law enforcement and the subsequent revocation of the emergency declaration demonstrate a commitment to protecting the community and maintaining order. The Bruce Highway has since reopened, but the memory of the incident will likely linger for some time.