Tuesday, September 29, 2020.
LISMORE MP Janelle Saffin has welcomed $560,000 in Federal funding towards replacing Bungabee Bridge at Bentley, west of Lismore, as a major win for farming families who cannot currently move produce or cattle due to a 2-tonne weight limit.
Ms Saffin, who since May has lent her support to Lismore City Council’s applications for Australian Government funding, thanked Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan for working with her on this project.
Ms Saffin welcomed Mr Hogan’s announcement of $560,000 for raising the level of the bridge, which sits on the boundary of Lismore City and Richmond Valley Local Government Areas.
She also thanked Lismore City and Richmond Valley councils for their cooperation on the project, which also aims to improve flood immunity, sightlines, gradient and alignment.
Ms Saffin said she had contacted Bentley farmers who had sought her help in replacing the bridge, which an engineering consultant had recommended urgent replacement within three months to safeguard public safety.
“While I welcome this funding announcement, it is imperative that the funding flows so that the bridge can be replaced as soon as possible, allowing local residents’ lives and livelihoods to return to normal,” Ms Saffin.
“Today’s announcement will bring relief to our farmers.”
Local farmers Joan and Colin Thomas expressed their appreciation for the efforts of Lismore City Council, Richmond Valley Council, Janelle Saffin MP and Kevin Hogan MP in securing funding for the replacement of the Bungabee Bridge.
