McCoys Bridge strengthening works

Background

McCoys Bridge crosses the Goulburn River between Kotupna and Wyuna and is a critical transport link for Northern Victoria’s farmers, freight operators, community, and visitors.

During the October 2022 floods, the bridge was subjected to fast-moving, powerful floodwaters and was closed for several weeks to determine if the bridge was damaged and could be safely reopened. 

A series of comprehensive inspections, including inspections by expert divers, were carried out to ensure the bridge was safe.

The bridge reopened in November 2022 with a 20-tonne load limit, which was increased to 42.5 tonnes in September 2023. The standard Murray Valley Highway load limit was reinstated in December 2023. 

Inspections have shown that the bridge is safe and strengthening works will ensure the bridge can continue to operate for years to come.

What we’re doing?

The foundations of the bridge will be made stronger and more stable. 

Ten of the bridge’s existing piers will be strengthened by installing reinforced concrete piles underground on either side of the current foundations. 

The new piles will be 11-metres deep and will be attached to the existing piles by horizontal concrete beams.

Once that is completed, the bridge will also be levelled to allow for smoother and more reliable journeys.

Works to begin on 2 August 2024 and be completed by the end of 2024. 

The end date for the works is dependent on the height of the river at the bridge. 

Traffic disruption 

The bridge will remain opened during the works with the possibility of single lane closures at times. 

Levelling works will require the bridge to be fully closed in stages toward the end of the works in November/December. The bridge may be closed for up to 24 hours at a time. 

During these closures vehicles will be required to detour using the road connecting Mooroopna, Shepparton, Barmah, Echuca and Wyuna.

Road users are reminded to drive to the conditions and allow extra travel time in case of delays.

Environmental impacts

We always work to minimise any impact to trees and vegetation. Some vegetation removal is required for this project to provide access for heavy machinery either side of the bridge. 

We have secured offsets as compensation for the loss to biodiversity and are investigating options for the reuse of the timber. 

Heritage 

McCoys Bridge is of local heritage significance in both the Moira Planning Scheme and the Campaspe Planning Scheme and is classified by the National Trust.

It is the seventh longest bridge in Victoria at 362.6 metres and is of significance as an unusually long concrete bridge which has been built on a sweeping curve.

The bridge strengthening works will occur underground to ensure the look and feel of the bridge is not altered.

Get in touch 

If you’d like more information or have any questions, please get in touch.

Email: [email protected]