A contractor is expected to be engaged to undertake repair and strengthening works on the Yeerung River Bridge after it was damaged by floods in April 2022.
The bridge over the Yeerung River provides access to Yeerung Gorge which is situated about five kilometres past the bridge.
Yeerung gorge is a popular local destination, particularly for those staying at Cape Conran.
Since the bridge was damaged in 2022, it has been closed to vehicles.
In a letter to Parks Victoria on May 10, 2024, Orbost and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ODCCI) secretary, Garry Squires, highlighted the importance of the bridge for the region’s tourism industry.
“Following the 2019/2020 fires and the closure of the timber industry, the Orbost district is trying hard to build the tourist economy,” the letter read.
“All assets are important to retain tourists in our area and this bridge could be reactivated by a very small amount of work.
“The Orbost district needs access to all the tourism infrastructure possible to meet the expanding needs of tourists.
The damage to the bridge caused by the flooding was to the approaches and to the handrails, which were washed away.
“We believe that for the expenditure of $5000 – $10,000 to repair the approaches, the bridge could be made serviceable for vehicles and hence allow tourism access to the Yeerung Gorge.”
In response to Mr Squires’ letter, Parks Victoria said there are “pending planning approvals underway”.
“While replacement of the safety barriers/rails could be undertaken, the impact on the approaches, abutments, and the connective integrity of the bridge was significant and deemed not safe or easily repairable,” the letter read.
“Fortunately, assessment and design for the repairs to the concrete abutments is complete with pending planning approvals underway.
“A contractor will be engaged this July, to undertake repair and strengthening works.
“During this time, pedestrian access has been maintained and we have been working with essential service providers to continue alternative access to power and communications infrastructure.”
IMAGE: Following flood damage in 2022, a contractor is expected to be engaged to undertake works on the Yeerung River Bridge, which provides access to the Yeerung Gorge, a popular destination for both locals and visitors. (PS)
