The Allan Labor Government is supporting East Gippsland communities in their ongoing bushfire and flood recovery, with the rebuild of important piece of tourism infrastructure that will allow visitors to explore further into the magnificent Croajingolong National Park.
Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos announced construction on a replacement Thurra River Bridge is now underway following the successful demolition of the fire and flood damaged bridge last year.
Thurra River Bridge suffered damage from the impacts of fire in 2020 and was later destroyed by major floods in April 2022.
The design and construction of the replacement bridge meets modern standards and accounts for the changed river course - using construction materials such as concrete and steel which will enhance the infrastructure's resilience to future bushfire and flood events.
The new bridge is due for completion by late 2025. Once complete, the new bridge will restore access to the Thurra River Campground and allow additional projects to progress such as upgrades to the Point Hicks Visitor Precinct and lighthouse.
The Cann River community and visitors to the area can expect increased traffic along Point Hicks Road. Point Hicks Road is closed from the Fishermans Track intersection.
Croajingolong National Park offers several free camping options for the school holidays and long weekends, including Binn Beach, Gunnai Beach, Peachtree Creek Reserve, Tamboon Inlet and Wingan Inlet.
For more information and other recovery projects in Croajingolong National Park, visit parks.vic.gov.au/projects/eastern-victoria/croajingolong-national-park-bushfire-recovery.
As stated by Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos
"This is a significant milestone for the East Gippsland community as recovery work continues from the devastating Black Summer Bushfires and subsequent flood events."
"We thank East Gippsland for their patience as DEECA on behalf of Parks Victoria deliver this project, designed to withstand many generations and the impacts of future extreme weather events."
As stated by Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh
"I'm glad to see this important rebuild underway so that people can get back out into the incredible and wild natural environment of East Gippsland."
