The project involved replacing two ageing wooden bridges over Deep Creek and Spring Gully, located between Coraki and Casino. The newly completed twin bridges mark a significant enhancement to this important regional connection.

The construction was overseen by Richmond Valley Council as part of the $150 million Northern Rivers Recovery and Resilience Program (NRRRP). The program is administered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority and funded by the Australian Government.

Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain, says the Albanese Government remains committed to long-term recovery efforts in the Northern Rivers, from immediate response through to ongoing resilience-building projects.

“The Northern Rivers is an area that has seen more than its share of disasters, and we are committed to ensuring the essential infrastructure they rely on is built back to a higher standard, that it is stronger, safer and designed to stand up to future flood events,” she says.

Built 1.2 metres higher than the previous timber structures, the new bridges provide a more reliable and resilient transport link, particularly during flood events, ensuring safer access for residents travelling between Coraki and Casino.

The upgrade is expected to deliver broad economic benefits, supporting freight movement, tourism, and key local industries such as sugar cane and livestock. The route is heavily used by B-double trucks and other heavy vehicles, forming a vital connection between the Summerland Way, Pacific Highway, and transport links to Southeast Queensland, especially in post-disaster conditions.

This project is one of 36 initiatives under the NRRRP, with 22 already completed. These include upgrades such as the Dairy Flat drainage improvements, Thearles Canal culvert installation, and major drainage works in Coraki, Woodburn, South and East Lismore, along with the Dorothy Street Flood Pump Station.

The NRRRP was established following the devastating 2022 floods, with the aim of strengthening essential infrastructure and reducing future disaster risks across the region.

NSW Minister for Recovery, Janelle Saffin, highlights the importance of the project as a milestone in strengthening regional resilience.

"It is great to see all three levels of government working together on our shared mission to bolster the resilience of the Northern Rivers and ensure our communities can recover faster from disasters,” she says.

“These new bridges are a significant step forward; by replacing ageing timber with a structure built 1.2 metres higher, we are securing a vital link for families and freight that will remain reliable when it matters most.

“This is about delivering the stronger, safer infrastructure our residents deserve to keep them connected during times of crisis."

Richmond Valley Mayor Robert Mustow also acknowledges the support of both the Australian and NSW Governments in delivering the project.
“It's great to see the Tatham bridges finished and open. These bridges are a vital link between Casino and the Mid Richmond communities and the Pacific Motorway, keeping freight and families moving,” he says.

“Importantly, when the next flood comes, restoring access will be much quicker, which will be a real help to those affected areas.”

Images: New $18M Tatham bridges boost flood resilience in Northern Rivers / supplied

Clémence Carayol

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