Two years after the 2024 bushfires changed the Dadswell Bridge landscape, an important community link has been restored, with the new pedestrian bridge now complete.
The original timber bridge, built by local volunteers, was a valued community asset and an important point of connection. Its loss was one of the challenges faced by residents, families and businesses during the bushfires.
With funding support from the Victorian and Australian Governments through the Council Support Fund, the rebuild has now been delivered, restoring safe pedestrian access for the community.
While weather conditions throughout 2025 delayed construction, the bridge structure is now complete, with pathway works to follow.
Mayor Cr Brian Klowss said the project represents a significant step forward for the community.
"The 2024 bushfires had a significant impact on our community, and the loss of the bridge was among the challenges experienced at that time," Cr Klowss said.
"This bridge was originally built by local volunteers, and that sense of community remains central to this project. Rebuilding it has been about restoring connection and ensuring this important link is available for years to come."
Cr Klowss thanked the Victorian and Australian Governments for their funding support.
"On behalf of Council and our community, I sincerely thank both levels of government for their assistance through the Council Support Fund. This investment reflects a strong commitment to supporting regional communities in their recovery."
Several replacement options were considered before Council selected a durable composite steel-concrete design to better withstand future extreme weather events.
"We cannot control natural disasters, but we can plan for the future," Cr Klowss said. "Council was determined to deliver a bridge that is functional, resilient and built for the long term."
The bridge, designed by Council and independently reviewed, features a 23-metre steel arch within a total span of 28.7 metres.
The project is the first concrete filled steel tube (CFST) arch bridge constructed in Victoria and demonstrates Council's commitment to resilient and innovative infrastructure for regional communities.
