The New South Wales government has confirmed that the full load limit has returned to a bridge in the state’s regions just in time for the 2025 summer harvest season.
The 42.5-tonne load limit is back on the Scabbing Flat Bridge at Geurie, with the historic timber truss bridge serving as a key freight and farming route in the state’s central west.
The NSW government says it has been carrying our essential repair and strengthening works to restore the bridge to its full load capacity and improve safety for all road users.
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 October 17, the limit has been reinstated, with some temporary traffic conditions remaining in place, including a 20km/h speed limit and 3.4-metre lane width restriction 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.
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Once the truss work is complete later this year, the Bailey Bridge will be removed and normal traffic conditions will return.
“This is welcome news for farmers, freight operators and everyone who relies on this vital local link,” NSW roads minister 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 NSW 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.
“I want to thank the Mayor of Dubbo Cr Josh Black who has been a tireless advocate for farmers and producers in getting this bridge re-opened.”
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