Bluff Bridge is now open to the public, delivering a safer and more flood-resilient connection for motorists along Orara Way in northeast New South Wales.

The new bridge represents an investment of almost $16.2 million, jointly funded by the Federal and New South Wales Governments, with $5 million provided through the Federal Government’s Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program and $11.2 million through the NSW Government’s Fixing Country Bridges Program.

The opening marks a significant milestone for the region, delivering a more reliable transport link for local communities and road users.

Spanning nearly 100 metres, the new bridge sits eight metres higher than the previous timber structure, significantly improving access during flood events.

Designed to better withstand severe weather, the bridge replaces a structure that was frequently impacted by rising floodwaters, helping keep communities connected when it matters most.

Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain, said the investment has delivered a more resilient link along Orara Way.

“This investment by the Federal and NSW Governments has made this vital link along Orara Way a reliable route that can withstand the severe weather events that impacted the old bridge.

“By replacing a flood-prone timber bridge with a modern concrete structure that sits eight metres higher, we’re providing durable, flood-resilient infrastructure that keeps regional motorists safe and connected.

“The new crossing will also minimise closures during flooding events and eliminate the maintenance burden of the old bridge,” McBain said.

NSW Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison, said the project would strengthen resilience across the regional road network.

“Natural disasters have had a severe impact on our road network across regional NSW, particularly on critical access points like Bluff Bridge,” Aitchison said.

“When infrastructure like this becomes inaccessible, the impacts are wide-reaching, from cutting off communities and disrupting local businesses to delaying emergency services and essential travel.

“Projects like the Bluff Bridge upgrade are about more than rebuilding what was there before, it’s about delivering stronger, more resilient infrastructure that keeps people connected when it matters most.

“I’m very pleased to see Bluff Bridge open, restoring a vital link for the community and improving access along Orara Way.”

NSW Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin said the bridge would provide long-term benefits for local resilience.

“The North Coast is no stranger to natural disasters, particularly flooding, and our communities feel those impacts time and time again.

“People in this region know how quickly access can be lost when key infrastructure goes under, and how disruptive that is to daily life, work and emergency response.

“The completion of Bluff Bridge is a significant win for local safety, connection and the long-term endurance of the Clarence Valley community,” Saffin said.

NSW Senator Jenny McAllister said the project improves reliability for motorists.

“The new Bluff Bridge offers drivers reliability and safety.

“We want people in northeast New South Wales to rest assured they are well connected, especially during flooding events,” McAllister said.

Clarence Valley Mayor, Ray Smith, said the project delivers long-term value for the region.

“The new bridge will bring significant benefits to Glenreagh and surrounding communities that rely on this vital connection, particularly during flood events.

“This funding has delivered enormous value for the Clarence Valley.

“Upgrading Bluff Bridge, which previously went underwater multiple times each year, has greatly improved safety, resilience and connectivity for our communities.

“I am honoured to officially open this important asset for our community alongside our ministers,” Smith said.