The full 42.5-tonne load limit on the Scabbing Flat Bridge at Geurie will be reinstated just in time for the 2025 summer harvest season.
The NSW Government has been carrying out essential repair and strengthening works to restore the bridge to its full load capacity, as the historic timber truss bridge is a key freight and farming route in the state.
“This is welcome news for farmers, freight operators and everyone who relies on this vital local link,” minister for roads Jenny Aitchison says.
“We know how important this bridge is to farmers and the local economy, and crews have worked around the clock to make sure it was back to full strength in time for harvest.
“As the party of the bush, the Minns Labor Government is investing in regional infrastructure, fixing roads and bridges, and getting on with the job of delivering safer, stronger connections for regional communities across our state.”
Over 15 months of work, repair crews have replaced ageing timber, repaired bridge piers and installed a temporary Bailey bridge to support the structure while truss restoration work continues.
The progression of the strengthening works means local farmers and freight operators will be able to move their produce across the bridge safely and efficiently this harvest season.
From noon October 17, the 42.5-tonne limit was reinstated.
The 20 km/h speed limit and 3.4 metre lane width restrictions will remain in place while final truss repairs continue.
Wider vehicles will still need to use approved detours via Wellington or Dubbo, and occasional closures of up to 15 minutes may be needed to allow crews to work safely.
Once the truss work is complete later this year, the Bailey Bridge will be removed, and normal traffic conditions will return.