- Published:
- Monday 18 December 2023
A new bridge has opened on Girgarre-Rushworth Road between Stanhope and Rushworth, boosting connectivity and reducing travel times for the region’s farmers and freight operators.
The new bridge crosses the Waranga Western Channel, allowing trucks and other heavy vehicles over 42.5 tonnes to return to Girgarre-Rushworth Road thanks to a $4.9 million investment from the Allan Labor Government.
There is no load limit on the new Girgarre-Rushworth Road bridge making it easier for drivers travelling to and from the Fonterra cheese plant at Stanhope, one of the region’s major dairy companies.
Crews also constructed new abutments to support the new bridge, installed safety barriers on the approach to to prevent run-off-road collisions and constructed new sections of road leading up to the bridge.
The works will provide safer and smoother journeys for all road users for years to come and support population growth in the area.
The previous bridge was built in 1977 and had a load limit of 42.5 tonnes in place due to the bridge’s declining condition.
The freight sector contributes $21 billion to the economy each year and employs 260,000 Victorians.
The Labor Government continues to support our freight operators, producers, exporters and importers to get their products and produce moving safely and efficiently, building a safer and more connected freight network.
Quotes attributable Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne
“Work is now complete on a new and stronger bridge on Girgarre-Rushworth Road reducing travel times for heavy vehicle drivers travelling in northern Victoria.”
“Freight keeps our economy moving, providing industries and consumers with access to the products they need and want – and connects Victorian producers with the rest of Australia and the world.”
Quote attributable to Member for Northern Victoria Region Jaclyn Symes
“We’ve delivered a much-needed new bridge, slashing travel times for our region’s farmers and freight operators and making local roads safer.”