New Bridge To Be Built On Girgarre-Rushworth Road

A new bridge will enable trucks and other heavy vehicles to return to Girgarre-Rushworth Road between Stanhope and Rushworth, keeping the region’s farmers and freight operators better connected.

The new bridge over the Waranga Western Channel will replace the current bridge that was built in 1977 and has a load limit of 42.5 tonne.

Currently a reduced speed limit is in place due to the condition of the bridge, whereas the new design set will create safer and smoother journeys for all road users.

The works will allow Girgarre-Rushworth Road to return to being a key route for freight, including drivers travelling to and from Fonterra in Stanhope.

Advertising for a contractor to build the bridge is currently in market. A start date for construction will be confirmed following contract award. Works are expected to start late 2022 and finish in 2023.

Girgarre-Rushworth Road is expected be closed at the Waranga Western Channel during construction with detours in place.

Heavy vehicles over 42.5 tonnes are reminded to continue to detour via Corop, Colbinabbin, Murchison or Tatura as applicable.

The project is funded by the Road Network Bridge Strengthening Program. The freight sector contributes $21 billion to our economy each year and employs 260,000 Victorians.