Murphys Bridge is the largest bridge rebuild after the 2019-20 bushfires and floods destroyed or damaged 19 bridges across the shire; it provides access across the Tuross River to Cadgee and surrounds.
The precast concrete bridge components have been manufactured and delivered to both sides of the Tuross River in preparation for bridge construction by contractors HD Civil, who also rebuilt nearby Peach Tree and Reedy Creek Bridges.
Eurobodalla Council’s director of infrastructure Warren Sharpe said the new bushfire and flood resistant bridge would re-open direct access for communities west of the Tuross River.
“The 68.5 metre replacement bridge will be stronger and capable of taking heavier loads safely. It will also be slightly higher,” Mr Sharpe said.
With large vehicles and heavy plant onsite, there will be no access to through traffic during work, which is expected to finish in January 2022. Residents will continue to detour and Council has made alternative arrangements for access to adjacent properties.
Mr Sharpe said separate crews would also begin work on the two remaining damaged bridges on Araluen Road and one on Old Bolaro Mountain Road.
“Kennys Creek and McGregors Creek Bridges were damaged in the fires but we’ve been unable to rebuild them due to the landslides blocking Araluen Road. We expect our contractor’s heavy plant to be able to get to these bridges in late October.
“With 17 bridges – including two extra – already rebuilt, our aim is to have the last four bushfire damaged bridges finished by early 2022.”
Above: Murphys Bridge on Eurobodalla Road was destroyed by bushfire on New Year’s Eve 2019. Work on the new concrete replacement starts in October.
