A key pedestrian connection between Dixon Field and the Gisborne Botanic Gardens has been reinstated through a new sturdier, safer footbridge over Jacksons Creek.
The old footbridge suffered extensive damage in the October 2022 flood event – one of several Council-managed assets impacted – and was assessed by Council's insurer as a total loss, due to separation from its footings.
Council staff then completed all necessary due diligence including working through an extended insurance claim process, finalising designs in consultation with Melbourne Water as the relevant water catchment authority, and tendering out the necessary works.
Works on site commenced in February 2025 and were completed in early May 2025, highlighted by the delivery and crane lift of the new prefabricated bridge.
The sturdier footbridge structure is made of painted steel and features a slip-resistant surface of fibre-reinforced polymer. To enhance the aesthetics and neighbourhood character, the bridge also features spotted gum – a fire-resistant timber – in balustrades and approaches.
Mayor Dom Bonanno said that the new footbridge – which cost $300,000 funded through the insurance claim process – was a significant improvement on the decades-old former bridge.
"Standing on the new footbridge, I couldn't help but evoke the old saying that 'you don't know what you've got until it's gone' – I'm really pleased that it is open again, and we're confident it will better stand the test of time and the elements," he said.
"We know the Gisborne community has desperately missed this simple yet vital connection, and I thank everyone for their patience as we worked through this longer-than-expected insurance project."
The new footbridge connects Dixon Field and Council's Gisborne Administration Centre in the west with the Gisborne Botanic Gardens to the east, which also links in with Jacksons Creek Reserve and the Gisborne Adventure Playground.
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