New bridge at Wye River completed

MAJOR works to replace the Wye River Bridge are complete, mproving safety and travel along the Great Ocean Road between Lorne and Apollo Bay.

The $14.86 million project was jointly funded, with the federal government contributing $4.05 million under the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program and the Victorian government contributing $10.81 million.

Built in the 1950s, the original Wye River Bridge has now been replaced with a new 50m triple-span reinforced concrete bridge.

The existing bridge was demolished to make way for the new structure which includes a wider bridge deck, shoulders and a footway on the ocean side of the structure.

These key features will future-proof the bridge, boosting safety and reliability for all motorists and pedestrians.

With the completed works, the bridge will be capable of carrying an increased load capacity of more than 100 tonnes, meeting existing and future traffic demands.

It will also be better protected against high tides and storms with improved drainage facilities and an additional 600 millimetres of clearance over the existing bridge.

The new bridge will support increased freight and vehicle movements along the Great Ocean Road, a critical link between Torquay and Allansford.

“The Albanese Government is committed to delivering for regional Victoria under the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program,” Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government Kristy McBain said.

“Future-proofing important connections such as the Wye River Bridge is important to keeping our economy and freight moving.

“Whether it’s local roads or key links along the Great Ocean Road, we are investing in regional Victoria’s road network right across the state.”

Victorian Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Melissa Horne said the project would ensure a safe and secure river crossing for locals and visitors to the area.

“We’ve improved pedestrian safety and access with a new, extended, wider path, higher guardrail and crash barriers, while the new wider shoulders across the bridge in both directions will improve safety and access for cyclists.”

Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney said it was fantastic that the new bridge was complete.

“It’s a great outcome for our coastal communities and for everyone who travels this beautiful stretch of the Great Ocean Road.”

“This new bridge will make travel safer, support local jobs and keep our region moving well into the future. I want to thank the local community for their patience and support during these vital works.”