1 SEPTEMBER 2016

A replacement bridge across the Murray River has been proposed between Yarrawonga (Victoria) and Mulwala (NSW) by Roads and Maritime Services, in partnership with VicRoads.

Roads and Maritime Services Spokesperson said the NSW Government is inviting Aboriginal community members to attend an Aboriginal Focus Group meeting to seek input from the local Aboriginal community to help assess the potential impacts of the proposal to Aboriginal objects and/or places.

“Roads and Maritime recognises and respects the significance of Aboriginal Cultural Heritage in the Yarrawonga-Mulwala area,” the spokesperson said.

“Information from archaeological investigations and previous surveys will be presented and input from the Aboriginal community will help us fully assess potential impacts from building the proposed replacement bridge.”

The existing Yarrawonga Weir is a single lane bridge and is controlled by traffic signals which alternate traffic flow. Mulwala Bridge is a dual lane bridge and is the main route between the two towns.

The bridge has narrow travel lanes and a shared pedestrian/cycle path, high maintenance costs, a 42.5 tonne load limit and barriers which do not meet current design standards.

An Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Report, including possible archaeological excavation results, will outline all items found within the project area.

Expressions of interest from the Aboriginal community must be received by phone or in writing by 5pm on Wednesday 14 September 2016.

To register your interest, please contact Andrew Whitton, Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Officer on (02) 6923 6647 or Andrew.Whitton@rms.nsw.gov.au

Media: ROADS AND MARITIME SERVICES MEDIA UNIT 9462 6299 or media@rms.nsw.gov.au