New Wye River Bridge completed, delivering safer and more reliable travel on the Great Ocean Road

Major works to replace the Wye River Bridge have now wrapped up, delivering safer and more reliable travel along the Great Ocean Road between Lorne and Apollo Bay. The $14.86 million upgrade was jointly funded, with the federal government providing $4.05 million through the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program and the Victorian government contributing $10.81 million.

The original bridge, that was built in the 1950s, has been now replaced by a new 50-metre, triple-span reinforced concrete structure. For this purpose, the old bridge was demolished to make way for the wider deck, upgraded shoulders and a new pedestrian path on the ocean side. With the project now complete, the bridge can handle loads of more than 100 tonnes, meeting current and future transport needs. Furthermore, it offers better protection from high tides and storms, thanks to upgraded drainage and an extra 600mm of clearance above the previous bridge. It should be underlined that the new structure will better support freight and general traffic along the Great Ocean Road, which is considered a key connection between Torquay and Allansford.

Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government Kristy McBain said the Albanese Government is focused on strengthening regional Victoria through the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program. Victorian Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne highlighted the improvements for pedestrians and cyclists, noting the wider pathway, higher guardrails, crash barriers and broader shoulders on both sides of the bridge.

Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney, said the completion of the project is a win for local coastal communities and the many travelers who use this scenic part of the Great Ocean Road. She also said that this new bridge will make journeys safer and will support local jobs while she thanks the community for its patience during the construction period.