Tilly Willy Bridge reopens to all vehicles following major upgrade

MOTORISTS are once again able to travel unrestricted across Tilly Willy Bridge, with Nambucca Valley Council reopening the structure and removing its five-tonne load limit signs on Friday 19 June.

The bridge had been closed for refurbishment works from 4 May to 19 June 2026.

Nambucca Valley Council Acting General Manager David Moloney said the successful project had not only strengthened the bridge but also enabled Council’s Structures team to develop new skills.

“Using geoplastic formwork and pump, they formed new concrete bridge piles around the old, deteriorated bridge piles, which was new to the team,” he said.

“The team also installed a new steel girder to strengthen the bridge where two timber girders were found in poor condition.

“I thank our structures team for the ingenuity and hard work, to strengthen Tilly Willy Bridge and have it re-opened in good time for our community.”

The structural works undertaken included constructing new bridge piles around the existing piles, installing an additional steel girder and placing deep lift asphalt approaches to the bridge.

Among those welcoming the reopening was Bowraville business owner Wayne Noble of Noble Crane Truck Hire.

Mr Noble said the return of unrestricted access had already made a difference.

“It’s a good thing the bridge has been re-opened and I’ve been able to drive across it about three or four times now in my 10-tonne truck,” he said.

“Being able to go home to Bowraville this way certainly saves me time and fuel, so I’m pleased the bridge is now open to heavy vehicles.”

The project was funded through the Australian Government’s Roads to Recovery Program.

Council also expressed its appreciation to the community for its patience during the works, particularly residents of Kings Point, who were affected by the closure.

By Mick BIRTLES