Bourke's and Bartrops Bridge Redevelopment

  • Project typeBridge Replacement
  • Project value$2.8mil
  • Project scheduleConstruction to behin September 2025
  • Contractor nameMurray Construction Pty Ltd.
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Bourke’s Bridge in Nathalia and Bartrops Bridge in Kotupna have long served as vital links for local communities, farmers, and emergency services. As two of the last remaining wooden bridges in the municipality, they carry not just traffic – but history. However, both structures are under a 6-tonne load limit and showing signs of fatigue, no longer able to meet the demand of modern transport and agribusiness.

Moira Shire Council secured $2.18 million in Australian Government funding through the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program, enabling the progression of design and construction works. Our community depends on these bridges every day, even more so during busy harvest periods, and it is crucial that they are safe and functional.

The redevelopment marks a significant step forward in preserving connectivity, safety, and economic resilience for the region. 

Why These Works Are Needed

  • Bridges are no longer capable of servicing heavy vehicles vital to local agribusiness.
  • CFA has raised concerns about current load limitations.
  • Without intervention, load limits would need to be further reduced, or bridges closed.
  • Replacement ensures long-term safety, reliability, and economic viability.
  • Council risks losing Federal funding if works do not proceed.

Bourke’s Bridge Construction Points

  • Demolition and removal of the existing Bourkes Bridge
  • Salvage and recovery of the original timbers to be reused in the community
  • Installation of new bridge columns and decking
  • Upgrade and integration of approaching roadways
  • Installation of new signage and barriers 

 

Bourke’s Bridge Updates

December 2025: 
Reconstruction of Bourkes Bridge in Nathalia has reached 50% completion ahead of the Christmas Shutdown. Recent works include piling, abutments, and installation of cross heads, marking the most technically challending stage of the project. Construction will resume on Monday 12 January 2026, with precast T-beams, guard rails, and deck installation, followed by sealing of approaches and upgrades to the Murray Road-Ormond's Road intersection. The bridge is scheduled for completion in February, removing the current 6-tonne load limit and improving freight productivity for local producers. 

September 2025:
Construction on Bourke’s Bridge have begun with contractors Murray Construction on site to conduct bridge demolition and reconstruction works.
As of Monday 15 September, Bridge and road closures are in place on Bourkes Bridge, Murray Road Nathalia between Hardings Road and Ormonds Road. Traffic management and detours will be in place for the duration of the works through to December. Please plan ahead for impacted times and take care when travelling on the roads. 

 

Bartrops Bridge Information

Coming soon. Works are scheduled for November 2025.

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