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Bourke’s Bridge reopens, boosting flood resilience and access

May 9, 2026

The newly completed Bourke’s Bridge in Nathalia. Photo by Contributed

Bourke’s bridge on Murray Rd has reopened in Nathalia as construction continues on a second new bridge in Moira Shire.

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Moira Shire Council said the original Bourke’s bridge was constructed out of timber in the early 1950s and had reached the end of its serviceable life.

The upgraded bridge is now rated for B-double traffic, removing the six-tonne load limit that had restricted heavy vehicle access.

The bridge has also been raised to improve flood resilience.

Moira Shire Council chair administrator Graeme Emonson said the bridge upgrades were a vital investment for the communities they served.

“These works are vitally important for our community — not only for local residents and freight operators, but critically for emergency response vehicles that rely on safe and unrestricted access to these areas,” Dr Emonson said.

“Replacing ageing infrastructure with modern, fit-for-purpose bridges ensures our communities are better connected, more flood resilient and safer for everyone who travels these roads.”

The combined $2.9 million project has been jointly funded through the Federal Government’s Bridges Renewal Program and Moira Shire Council.