An elected Dutton Coalition Government will provide $6.3 million to restore historic Kirwans Bridge, reopen it to traffic, and preserve it for future generations.
In a joint announcement Senator Bridget McKenzie, Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development and Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell said in government they will end decades of uncertainty for the community.
“The community, Strathbogie Shire Council and the many people who love Kirwans Bridge have been fighting for years to restore it, the Nationals will make sure it happens if we form government,” Mr Birrell said.
“Kirwans Bridge has been in decline for decades and it was further damaged during the October 2022 flood, but it is too precious to lose, this funding will ensure it remains open and is safe for the next 50 plus years.”
The restoration project will maintain the existing single lane bridge by undertaking a full renovation including replacing the timber decking with a concrete deck slab.
Kirwans Bridge is important to the community for access and emergencies, but also for tourism.
Senator McKenzie said Labor had an opportunity to fund the restoration through the Growing Regions program, but it didn’t get past the first expression of interest stage.
“Labor created a specific category for projects impacted by recent natural disasters, but Kirwans Bridge received nothing,” Senator McKenzie said.
“We need to retain our heritage as well as build new infrastructure. Kirwans bridge is one of the longest timber bridges in the state but is unique because of the angular turn in the middle and the community deserves better than government letting it slowly fall into disrepair.
”This commitment is part of the Coalition’s plan to strengthen our local communities and get our country Back on Track.
The Nationals have also announced a game changing Regional Australia Future Fund to drive investment in infrastructure.
The $20 billion fund will provide a consistent annual dividend of $1 billion and ensure this investment is continuous through all cycles of government.
“This will give confidence to regional communities, by investing in their economic future over coming decades, not just each electoral cycle,” Senator McKenzie said.