The Minns Labor Government continues to deliver for regional NSW, today announcing that the full 42.5-tonne load limit on the Scabbing Flat Bridge at Geurie will be reinstated just in time for the 2025 summer harvest season.
The historic timber truss bridge is a key freight and farming route in the state's Central West and the Minns Government has been carrying our essential repair and strengthening works to restore the bridge to its full load capacity and improve safety for all road users.
Over 15 months of work, repair crews have replaced ageing timber, repaired bridge piers and installed a temporary Bailey bridge to support the structure while truss restoration work continues.
The progression of the strengthening works means local farmers and freight operators will be able to move their produce across the bridge safely and efficiently this harvest season.
From noon today (17 October), the 42.5-tonne limit will be reinstated.
Some temporary traffic conditions will remain in place, including a 20 km/h speed limit and 3.4-metre lane width restriction while final truss repairs continue.
Wider vehicles will still need to use approved detours via Wellington or Dubbo, and occasional closures of up to 15 minutes may be needed to allow crews to work safely.
Once the truss work is complete later this year, the Bailey Bridge will be removed, and normal traffic conditions will return.
For real-time updates, visit www.livetraffic.com or follow "Geurie - the Bailey bridge Arthurville Road" in the Live Traffic app.
Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said:
"This is welcome news for farmers, freight operators and everyone who relies on this vital local link.
"We know how important this bridge is to farmers and the local economy, and crews have worked around the clock to make sure it was back to full strength in time for harvest.
"As the party of the bush, the Minns Labor Government is investing in regional infrastructure, fixing roads and bridges, and getting on with the job of delivering safer, stronger connections for regional communities across our state.
"I want to thank the Mayor of Dubbo Cr Josh Black who has been a tireless advocate for farmers and producers in getting this bridge re-opened."
Labor Duty MLC for Dubbo Stephen Lawrence MLC said:
"The Scabbing Flat Bridge is critical Central West freight infrastructure, and it's outstanding that it comes back online prior to harvest. This change means safer and more efficient transport for farmers and freight operators, and supports local jobs and the local economy."
Mayor of Dubbo Regional Council Cr Josh Black said:
"Our community has been waiting a long time for this moment, and it's fantastic to see the bridge back to full strength in time for harvest.
"Scabbing Flat Bridge is a vital connection for our farmers and freight operators, and these works will make a real difference to local productivity and safety.
"We thank the Minns Government for listening to the community and getting this project done."
Head of Supply Chain for GrainCorp Josh Connell said:
"We welcome the NSW Government's investment in regional infrastructure. This upgrade will provide long-term value for the grain industry, helping to connect local growers to domestic and export opportunities.
"Investment that improves road access and freight efficiency is good for growers, the broader supply chain and the environment. Upgrades that enable higher productivity vehicles can lower carbon emissions while also improving safety by supporting newer equipment.
"With another busy harvest approaching in NSW, targeted investment in freight routes is essential to maintaining supply chain reliability and delivering strong outcomes for growers."
