Preferred proponent named for Fitzroy River Bridge replacement

Aconsortium comprising Georgiou Group Pty Ltd and BMD Constructions Pty Ltd has been named as the Preferred Proponent to deliver the new Fitzroy River Bridge in the Kimberley region.

The consortium will form an alliance with Main Roads and design consultant BG&E to undertake this critical project. Preliminary design investigations are already underway, with site works expected to begin in May 2023 subject to weather conditions and resolution of relevant approvals.

Georgiou Group Pty Ltd and BMD Constructions Pty Ltd have considerable experience in constructing bridges in Western Australia and have the resources and capacity to commence construction activities as soon as possible after the current wet season.

In addition to the permanent restoration of connectivity between the east and west Kimberley, the bridge replacement project will see significant investment in the region's economy. The Alliance will generate opportunities for local suppliers and will work with Traditional Owners and local Aboriginal Corporations to maximise employment and economic outcomes.

A formal Alliance Agreement with the Preferred Proponent will be executed in the coming weeks, with the new bridge expected to be operational by the end of 2024.

In addition to the freight subsidy support announced yesterday, the WA and Commonwealth Governments will also provide up to $80 million to undertake emergency road recovery works following Ex-Tropical Cyclone Ellie under the joint Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

The initial works include emergency works to reconnect the region, the installation of the low-level crossing at Fitzroy Crossing, the barge infrastructure and operation, Gibb River Road reinstatement works and permanent repairs at Willare and Fitzroy Crossing.

Works are being prioritised by Main Roads and will get underway as soon as practically possible, working to the seasonal weather conditions.

Discussions between the Australian and Western Australian Government regarding the shared costs of the bridge replacement are well progressed.

Great Northern Highway between Broome and Derby near Willare has re-opened.

Road and river levels will be monitored closely and if required, access may need to be temporarily limited.

You can stay up to date with the latest news on the road recovery effort by visiting www.mainroads.wa.gov.au/travelinformation/driving-in-wa/kimberley-floodresponse/

WA Minister for Planning Hon Rita Saffioti said, “The new Fitzroy River bridge is a project of critical importance to the Kimberley region, the freight industry and all those businesses and communities that rely on the road network in the north of the State.

“I commend Main Roads for fasttracking its procurement process to allow construction to begin as quickly as possible.

“Main Roads and their Alliance partners will work closely with Traditional Owners to ensure key cultural and heritage considerations associated with the new bridge are carefully addressed and will maximise opportunities for local businesses in Fitzroy Crossing and the wider region.”