Following the October 2022 floods, the crossing, which is Victoria’s longest timber bridge, was closed to all traffic.
This turned the 5km drive to the nearest township of Nagambie into a 15km trip through back roads.
Kirwans Bridge resident Kerri Bradshaw told the Telegraph in June last year that the closure posed risks to the community.
“The other night, I drove and there were mobs, not just one or two, but mobs of kangaroos, and I’m talking 100 to 150,” Ms Bradshaw said.
“We’re forced to drive in far more dangerous conditions than before.”
On October 16, the Australian Government confirmed it would commit $4 million to design and deliver the renewal of Kirwans Bridge under the Safer Local Roads Infrastructure Program.
The two-stage structural renewal project will see the historic Goulburn River crossing reopen to passenger vehicles.
The design phase will determine the bridge’s load capacity and final scope of works, while construction will include structural lengthening to meet road safety standards, drainage and traffic management improvements.
The project will also include the integration of heritage requirements, with the bridge having a history dating back to 1890.
Victorian Senator Jana Stewart said the project, coupled with a $957,475 investment into the delivery of a 1.8km cycling pathway connecting Shepparton’s Victoria Park and railway station, would deliver lasting benefits for the Nicholls electorate.
“As a country kid, I know how important safe roads and transport connections are for regional communities,” Ms Stewart said.
“I regularly hear from local councils about the need to invest in infrastructure that keeps people safe and connected, which is why it’s great to see support for the Kirwans Bridge project and new cycling connections in Shepparton.”
Specific works to Kirwans Bridge will include rehabilitation of its substructure and superstructure, replacement or strengthening of deteriorated piles, a new reinforced concrete deck system, strengthening and corrosion protection of steel gliders, and barrier upgrades to current standards.
Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell said the funding was a major breakthrough after years of determined advocacy.
“This is a great win for persistence. I have worn a path to the minister’s door over the past four years fighting for this project, but the credit belongs to the community,” Mr Birrell said.
“Strathbogie Shire Council, the Kirwans Bridge Action Group and Go Nagambie have worked tirelessly to keep this project on the agenda and build the case for funding.
“Their persistence has paid off. This funding provides the pathway to reopen a vital local crossing, restore an important piece of our heritage and reconnect the community.”
Mr Birrell said the $4 million was expected to be sufficient to reopen the bridge to passenger vehicles, but further funding would be required to achieve a higher load limit.
“Today is an important milestone, but the job is not yet finished,” he said.
“I will continue working with the council, community advocates and the government to secure the additional investment needed to strengthen the bridge and increase its future carrying capacity.”
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