The Federal and New South Wales Governments are set to jointly provide $3 million to Kempsey Shire for the replacement of a flood prone causeway with a new 75m-high bridge.
The Dungay Creek causeway at Yessabah has been repeatedly damaged across multiple natural disasters in recent years, leading to frequent closures which have impacted and isolated local communities.
A more resilient and higher concrete structure is being funded through the Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package jointly funded under the Federal-State Disaster Funding Arrangements. The funding will allow Council to build more resilience into the road network to help communities to stay connected during extreme weather.
Work will start in January 2025 with the construction of precast elements off-site, and is due to be complete in February 2026, weather permitting.
Senator Tony Sheldon said that infrastructure that keeps communities connected during natural disasters isn’t just about roads or bridges – it’s about ensuring families can stay safe, access medical help when they need it and recover together after the worst has passed.
“There’s often an increased demand for medical services during natural disasters, so having infrastructure that provides access to those services is essential,” Senator Sheldon said.
“I’m really pleased to see Kempsey Shire Council leading the way on this project. With the backing of the Federal and State Governments, this new bridge will be a game-changer for locals, keeping them safe and connected when they need it most.”
New South Wales Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully, said that the State Government is committed to doing all it can to improve the safety of local infrastructure and mitigate against future disasters.
“This bridge is critical to the livelihoods of locals, and not only will this work mean it is more resilient in the event of future disasters, it will also help keep them safe and connected.”
New South Wales Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchison, said that it’s great to see all three levels of government working together to improve the reliability of the crossing over Dungay Creek, which will provide social and economic benefits for Council and the community.
“The new bridge will reduce the number of closures and will mean communities can stay connected during and after flood events, ensuring Council can focus on other assets or functions during post-flood events,” Minister Aitchison said.
Kempsey Shire Council Infrastructure Delivery Group Manager, Dylan Reeves, said that the Dungay Creek causeway project is a significant undertaking for the community and will greatly enhance the reliability and safety of access for the locals of Wittitrin.
“With preliminary off-site works commencing in January 2025, we’ve already completed essential groundwork, including site surveys, geotechnical investigations and environmental assessments,” Mr Reeves said.
“The construction will be managed by Kempsey Shire Council, with specialised contractors engaged to ensure we deliver a high-quality project. We’ll minimise disruptions by keeping the existing causeway open during construction, with only limited closures during key phases.
“This bridge represents an incredible enhancement to our transport network, ensuring safety and better connectivity for all who rely on it.”
Kempsey Shire Council Mayor, Kinne Ring, said that the Dungay Creek causeway project is a powerful step forward in connecting the Macleay Valley, improving road safety for all and enhancing the daily lives of residents.
“With work beginning in January 2025, this bridge is an essential piece of infrastructure, made possible through the Regional Roads and Transport Recovery Package,” Mayor Ring said.
“Kempsey Shire Council is proud to manage this significant upgrade to our transport network, providing safer, more reliable access for our entire community.”