The Albanese and Minns Labor governments, in partnership with Singleton Council, have today cut the ribbon on a major upgrade to Brunners Bridge at Mitchells Flat - strengthening freight access, and improving safety in the Upper Hunter.
The $7.2 million upgrade replaces an ageing bridge with a modern, heavy-duty crossing designed to carry larger freight vehicles and better connect local communities.
The project was jointly funded, with $6.5 million from the NSW Government and $700,000 from the Australian Government's Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program.
For communities in the Upper Hunter, Brunners Bridge is a vital everyday connection - linking Singleton, Elderslie and Gresford and providing access to the Hunter Regional Livestock Exchange. The Bridge also supports families, connecting them to work, schools and local services.
With a heavier load limit of 68.5 tonnes, the upgraded bridge improves reliability, supports local industry and keeps the region connected when it matters most.
The upgrade involved full demolition of the old structure and construction of a new bridge, culvert and approaches. Wider lanes and an improved road surface allow heavier vehicles to cross safely, reducing pressure on surrounding local roads and improving safety for all road users.
This upgrade follows the recent completion of Kilfoyles Bridge in Singleton, a critical project delivered under the jointly funded Australian and NSW Governments' Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements in response to the 2022 NSW floods. The project has improved road safety, strengthened connectivity and boosted flood resilience for residents, visitors and freight operators across the Upper Hunter.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain MP:
"Projects like these are critical to ensuring regional infrastructure can safely accommodate modern freight and vehicles.
"Replacing the previous bridge, which dates back around 80 years, will help keep communities safely and reliably connected."
Quotes attributable to NSW Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison MP:
"The completion of this project is great news for locals, visitors and businesses in the Upper Hunter.
"Brunners Bridge isn't just concrete and steel, it's a daily link for families, farmers and freight in the Upper Hunter.
"In Regional NSW, roads are not a convenience. They are the lifeblood that connects people to work, school and services, and keeps freight and agriculture moving. That's why upgrading local bridges like this matters so much.
"The Minns Labor Government is backing regions like the Upper Hunter with tangible investments - building stronger connections, supporting regional economies.
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Hunter, Dan Repacholi MP:
"This is a great example of all levels of government working together to deliver a great outcome for the Upper Hunter.
"This important local project will boost road safety and connectivity for residents, visitors and freight vehicles.
"The local communities, freight and agribusiness industry, transport and the wider economy will all benefit from this significant investment."
Quotes attributable to Singleton Mayor, Cr Sue Moore:
"Brunners Bridge has been a longstanding priority in Council's Infrastructure Advocacy Agenda, and its reopening marks a proud milestone for Singleton. It's a vital route designed to meet the needs of modern freight and agricultural vehicles.
"Gresford Road, where Brunners Bridge crosses Glendon Brook, is an essential freight corridor for the region's agricultural producers, linking them to the Hunter Regional Livestock Exchange and beyond.
"The replacement of this bridge means larger trucks carrying heavier freight loads can now cross safely and efficiently. Increasing the bridge's load capacity not only improves safety and reliability but also supports the growth of local agribusiness and helps reduce heavy vehicle traffic in surrounding areas.
"This project has been years in the making, and I want to sincerely thank the local community for their patience throughout the construction period, especially during the extended road closure.
"It's a testament to the power of collaboration across all levels of government, and an excellent example of infrastructure investment that delivers long-term benefits for the Singleton community."
