Motorists now have safer, more reliable access across the Richmond River, with works officially complete on the new Grieve Crossing Bridge on Gradys Creek Road in northeast New South Wales (NSW).

The project has replaced the former single‑lane timber bridge with a modern two‑lane concrete structure. Raised 4.8 metres higher than the previous bridge and standing 10 metres above normal water levels, the new crossing significantly improves safety and access during flood events.

The bridge was delivered by Kyogle Council, supported by $2.46 million in joint funding through the Australian and NSW Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, along with $2.5 million from the NSW Government’s Fixing Country Bridges Program.

Grieve Crossing is the 106th bridge replaced by Kyogle Council in the past 4 years, demonstrating sustained investment in safer and more resilient infrastructure for local communities. In addition to improving flood resilience, the new bridge enhances access for freight, trade and tourism, supporting improved connectivity to and from Summerland Way.

The Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements is how the Australian Government provides funding to states and territories to help ease the financial burden of responding to a disaster. It's a cost sharing arrangement between the Australian Government and state/territory governments to ensure disaster affected communities receive the urgent financial help they need.

State and territory governments are best placed to identify the type and level of assistance their communities need following a disaster. This is part of their responsibility for disaster and emergency management. The National Emergency Management Agency is here to support the states and territories deliver that assistance.

Image credit: Kyogle Council