Arabic version: مجتمع سوان هيل ينتظر استبدال الجسر بعد 60 عامًا

The Swan Hill community in Victoria has been waiting for a new bridge for six decades, with the current structure, built in 1896, no longer meeting the needs of residents and the transportation industry. The aging single-lane bridge has faced multiple repairs but was deemed beyond repair by Transport for NSW in December 2025, necessitating its complete removal. A replacement bridge is still years away from completion due to funding shortfalls.

According to ABC News, the Swan Hill Rural City Council is actively seeking $100 million from the Victorian government to fund the project, which has been the council’s top priority ahead of the upcoming state election. While the federal government has committed $60 million and the NSW government $7.2 million, no funds have yet been allocated by Victoria.

Local residents express frustration over the prolonged wait for a bridge replacement, with many recalling discussions about the project dating back to 1966. Former mayor Bill Moar reminisced about his father’s hopes for a new bridge, which were never realized during his lifetime. The existing structure, originally designed for a 16-tonne traction engine, has imposed weight restrictions that disrupt local industries and freight transport.

Business owners like Phil Perryman have reported significant challenges due to the bridge’s limitations, resulting in costly detours for transporting goods across the Murray River. Daryl Pickering from Pickering Transport Group highlighted safety concerns and inefficiencies caused by the current restrictions, emphasizing the need for a dual-lane bridge to facilitate better transport operations.

The Swan Hill community remains hopeful for a commitment from state leaders to address the urgent need for infrastructure improvements that are vital for regional economic growth and safety.