Junction Island Bridge & Footpath to re-open Saturday 29 June 2024

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Wentworth Shire Council is pleased to announce the long-awaited re-opening of the Junction Island Bridge and footpath on Saturday 29 June 2024. This milestone arrives just in time for the Wentworth Junction Rally on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 July, an iconic event Council has supported since its inception in 1992. The rally has not been held since 2017 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and floods, making the 2024 event a significant occasion for the community.

Wentworth Shire Council extends its gratitude to the Department of Regional NSW for funding this project. Additionally, Council acknowledges the unwavering support and dedication of the Great Murray Darling Junction Interpretative Facility Inc members, whose efforts have been instrumental in bringing this vision to life over the years.

The new bridge and footpath significantly improves the accessibility to Junction Island, allowing residents and visitors to explore this unique natural environment once again. Spanning over 1,100 metres, the footpath features informative signage that highlights the rich ecological and cultural significance of Junction Island. This development not only promotes outdoor recreation but also stands as a major drawcard for Wentworth tourism, encouraging people to reconnect with nature.

Councillor Daniel Linklater, Mayor of Wentworth Shire Council, stated, “The re-opening of the Junction Island Bridge and footpath is a great outcome for our community. This project not only restores access to one of our region’s most stunning natural treasures but also re-establishes a major tourist attraction that will invigorate our local economy. We are thrilled to welcome visitors back to experience the beauty and rich cultural heritage of Junction Island. This is a proud moment for Wentworth Shire, and we can’t wait for everyone to enjoy what this amazing landmark has to offer.”

Council invites everyone to join in celebrating this remarkable achievement and to experience the beauty and tranquillity of Junction Island firsthand.

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Lower speed limits in Wentworth town centre to boost pedestrian safety

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The speed limit on the Silver City Highway and six local roads in the Wentworth town centre will be reduced to create a safer environment for pedestrians and motorists. 

Transport for NSW conducted a review of a 650-metre section of the Silver City Highway where it passes through Wentworth CBD – along with Darling, Helena, Sandwych, Adams, Wharf and Adelaide streets – to determine if a high pedestrian activity area should be established. 

Transport for NSW Regional Director West Alistair Lunn said Wentworth Shire Council had requested the review which was carried out in accordance with state speed zoning standards, with a particular emphasis on pedestrian access, safety and community amenity. 

“The Silver City Highway is an important western freight route linking Broken Hill, Mildura and beyond, while Wentworth sits on a tourist route as one of the key locations to access the Mungo National Park and other destinations in far west NSW,” Mr Lunn said. 

“The highway through Wentworth attracts a lot of traffic, including many heavy vehicles, and is also a busy pedestrian area right in the centre of town. 

“The review found the introduction of a high pedestrian activity area with a 40 km/h speed limit for all vehicles would boost safety for all road users and pedestrians in the area. The speed on the highway section of the review area will see a 20 km/h reduction from the existing 60 km/h limit. 

“The high pedestrian area will also be expanded to include six local roads – Darling, Helena, Sandwych, Adams, Wharf and Adelaide streets – to recognise the town centre’s popularity as a gathering place for local residents and tourists.” 
The new speed limits will come into effect on Thursday 20 June and new signage will be installed to advise motorists and pedestrians of the changes. 

“The speed zone change will have a minimal impact on travel times for motorists passing through Wentworth but will deliver a great safety boost for road users and pedestrians in the area,” Mr Lunn said. 
Members of the community can sign up here to receive the latest updates on speed limits changes in their nominated area and to have their say on speed limits. 

The above Media Release has been sourced from the Transport for NSW website.