- New $37 million Wellington Dam Bridge now open to traffic and pedestrians
- Safer, dual-lane access and improved views of dam’s famous mega mural
- Supports Cook Labor Government’s plan to diversify Collie’s economy to enhance local jobs and tourism
A new traffic bridge at Wellington Dam, near Collie, is officially open, improving access to one of the South West’s most popular tourist attractions.
The $37 million modern dual-lane traffic bridge, delivered by Water Corporation, replaces the single-lane crossing built in 1966 and can accommodate larger buses and coaches.
A wider pedestrian walkway also provides unobstructed, panoramic views of Guido van Helten’s spectacular Reflectionsmural.
Wellington National Park attracts more than 276,000 visitors each year. The new bridge, with its improved safety and access, is expected to support continued tourism growth in the region.
Built by Australian contractor Seymour Whyte, the new structure used approximately
370 tonnes of structural steel and 2,100 cubic metres of concrete. Spanning 64 metres, its wider traffic lanes and improved alignment make it more accessible and safer for drivers and pedestrians.
Construction supported around 50 jobs as well as subcontractor opportunities for local and regional businesses.
The project builds on the more than $700 million already invested by the Cook Labor Government in supporting Collie’s economic transition.
Visitors can also experience Wellington Dam and its mural from a different perspective via a walkway across the top of the 367-metre dam wall. Part of the Reflections Trail, it allows walkers to complete a full circuit of the 87-kilometre Wiilman Bilya Trail.
The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions also completed upgrades to Falcon Road in Wellington National Park to align with Water Corporation’s bridge replacement.
The upgrades close a critical gap between the Wellington Dam Kiosk bypass and the new bridge, improving safety, access and visitor experience.
Falcon Road provides access to the lower Wellington Dam precinct, including lookout areas and associated visitor facilities.
For visitor information, go to www.watercorporation.com.au/About-us/Visiting-our-dams/Wellington-Dam
As stated by Water Minister Daniel Pastorelli:
“Wellington Dam is one of Western Australia’s most unique tourism attractions, and this new bridge ensures visitors can enjoy it more safely and comfortably than ever before.
“This investment by the Cook Labor Government provides a modern, enhanced crossing that improves access for drivers, pedestrians, tour operators and the growing number of people visiting Wellington National Park each year.
“I congratulate all the workers for delivering a key infrastructure upgrade that will help showcase Collie to even more visitors, and everyone for their patience during construction.”
As stated by the Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn:
“Wellington National Park is a major drawcard for visitors to the region and is central to the Cook Labor Government’s investment in nature-based tourism.
“The new bridge and Falcon Road upgrades will further enhance the visitor experience, granting easier access to vehicles and offering stunning views of the spectacular mural.
“Water Corporation and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions have both done a fantastic job co-ordinating these major projects, which are sure to benefit the region long into the future.”
As stated by South West Minister Don Punch:
“Spanning the Collie River, the new bridge offers a spectacular vantage point of Wellington Dam’s must-see mural, Reflections. The larger and safer structure makes the dam experience more accessible, whether as a pedestrian or from the comfort of a coach.
“In an economic boost for South West tourism, this bridge – funded by the Cook Labor Government – will support increased visitor numbers for decades to come.”
As stated by Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson:
“This new infrastructure builds on the more than $700 million already invested in the Collie region, including improved facilities, trails and walkways at Wellington Dam.
“The Cook Labor Government is committed to diversifying regional economies like Collie, and investments like this are helping create local jobs, attract visitors and support the region’s long-term future.”
As stated by Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns:
“Wellington National Park is one of the crown jewels of South West tourism and Water Corporation’s new bridge offers a breathtaking view of the 8,000-square-metre mural an Insta-worthy photo hotspot.
“Only two hours south of Perth, I’d encourage people to come and experience it for themselves, and all that Collie’s beautiful surrounds have to offer.
“We thank the community for their patience while Water Corporation delivered this important project.”
