At this time whilst the swinging bridge appears at a cursory glance, not to be as badly damaged as it was during the 1995 floods looks deceive. Engineers have proven otherwise. In 1998, the bridge was subsequently repaired with a $22,500 New South Wales Heritage Council grant and the Crookwell Shire Council matching with another $22,500 giving a total of $45,000, which allowed the Swinging Bridge to be mended. This was completed on 27th May 1999.

This latest event damaged the bridge well beyond the type of repairs that had previously been carried out in 1998-1999. Looking at a worst-case scenario, the Swinging Bridge may have to be completely rebuilt, which could cost anything between $100,000 to $200,000.If another flood of the magnitude of the 1996 or last year’s flood occurred again, the Shire would be faced with the same problem repeated for sure!

Reading between the lines! I feel that the Upper Lachlan Shire Engineers have no option but look at an alternative crossing of the Tuena Creek probably at a point through the Camping grounds.

Because of the dangerous nature of the Suspension Bridge and the Public Safety concerns plus libel aspects to the Shire. It’s only course of action would be as follows. Because it could not leave the bridge in its present state, if another alternative crossing was completed the entire swinging bridge structure would have to be removed.

The Tuena Community has taken up a petition to save the 117 year old bridge which is most important for access in and out for the families on the “other side” of the Creek in Tuena, plus it is a great Tourist Attraction, and Historical landmark for the Village.

The Shire Staff has erected wire cage barriers at each end of the bridge for obvious safety reasons and concerns for people’s well-being.

The Upper Lachlan Shire intends to consult with the Tuena Community when funding possibilities are negotiated further.

Contributed by Eric Davidson

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