The single lane bridge across Outlet Creek at Lake Albacutya provides a link for farmers, gypsum pit operators and tourism operators.

Hindmarsh Shire Council agreed to implement the recommendations of an independent report at its December meeting.

The report stated that a 15-tonne load limit would need to be implemented on the bridge as soon as practically possible.

Acting chief executive of Hindmarsh Shire Anne Champness said the report was commissioned after council officers noticed structural elements of the bridge were under stress.

“Council has had to act swiftly after our officers noticed increased cracking in the wing walls, beams and columns of the bridge,” she said.

“The safety of users, preservation of the bridge and minimum amount of disruption to the farming and gypsum businesses have been guiding our actions.”

Built in 1920, the bridge was designed for Class A loads, equivalent to a medium rigid truck today, but now carries B-doubles.

During the height of the gypsum season, there can be as many as 80 additional heavy vehicle movements across the bridge per day.

“We realise that the restrictions are going to impact many farmers and gypsum operators around the Albacutya area,” Ms Champness said. 

“Council is working closely with Parks Victoria and the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning to open the creek crossing to the south of Albacutya Bridge.

“This will take time due to the approvals process council is required to follow.”

“As the approval process can take six months, council will be placing a temporary bridge load limit of 24-tonnes on Albacutya Bridge for the duration of the gypsum season. Loaded heavy vehicles will then be directed back to Rainbow and the VicRoads network via an upgraded Drendels Road.

“Once the season is finished the full 15-tonne load limit will be implemented and the temporary creek crossing opened.”

Council has started the process of replacing Albacutya Bridge, seeking approvals from stakeholders.