Two ageing bridges in western NSW are a step closer to being replaced, with tenders now open for construction of new crossings at Grawin Creek and Rawsonville.
The Albanese and Minns Labor Governments are investing $30 million to replace Grawin Creek Bridge on the Gwydir Highway, about nine kilometres east of Collarenebri.
The Minns Government is also investing $18.9 million to replace Rawsonville Bridge on Rawsonville Bridge Road, about 21 kilometres west of Dubbo.
Both bridges have served their communities for generations but are narrow and subject to restrictions that make them unsuitable for some modern freight and agricultural vehicles.
Grawin Creek Bridge was built in 1935, while the timber truss Rawsonville Bridge was built in 1916.
The new bridges will provide wider travel lanes, stronger structures capable of carrying heavier vehicles, improved road approaches and better access for wide loads.
Grawin Creek Bridge will be replaced on the existing alignment. A temporary sealed side track has already been built to keep two-way traffic moving on the Gwydir Highway during construction.
At Rawsonville, the new bridge will be built about five metres upstream of the existing crossing, which connects the Mitchell Highway, Dubbo-Burraway Road and the Newell Highway.
The existing Rawsonville Bridge will be removed once the new crossing is open to traffic.
Construction on both projects is expected to begin in mid-2027, following the tender process and award of construction contracts.
Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison said:
"These bridges have served their communities for generations, but they were built for a very different time and they simply aren't up to the demands of today's freight and agricultural vehicles.
"Replacing Grawin Creek Bridge and Rawsonville Bridge will mean wider, stronger crossings that make it easier and safer for farmers, freight operators and local motorists to get where they need to go.
"We know how important reliable roads and bridges are in regional NSW. They connect our communities, get produce to market and keep local economies moving.
"Calling tenders is an important next step towards getting construction underway on both projects next year."
Labor Spokesperson for Barwon and Dubbo, Stephen Lawrence said:
"People living and working in regional NSW deserve safe and reliable roads and bridges, particularly in communities where heavy vehicles and agricultural machinery are part of everyday life.
"Both Grawin Creek and Rawsonville bridges have served their communities for generations, but their age and restrictions are creating challenges for modern freight and farming operations.
"These replacements will make a real difference for local families, farmers and businesses, and it's great to see both projects progressing towards construction next year."
Mayor of Dubbo Regional Council, Josh Black said:
"Rawsonville Bridge is a vital connection for our community, particularly for the farmers, freight operators and local residents who use it regularly.
"The current bridge has been standing for 110 years, and while it's served our region well, we need infrastructure that can accommodate the larger vehicles and agricultural equipment using our roads today.
"This new bridge will improve access, reduce restrictions and provide a safer, more reliable crossing for our community well into the future."
