Betterment avoids big bucks in the Whitsundays

The original Inverdon Bridge was a low-level timber structure across the Don River at Bowen. It was originally built in 1940 and suffered deterioration over many years.

Although the bridge underwent major repairs between 2008 and 2010, it was severely damaged in 2017 by Severe Tropical Cyclone Debbie and required demolition.

The betterment project saw the construction of a new concrete bridge across the Don River.

The works increased the resilience of Inverdon Road by reducing the risk of overtopping by floodwaters and providing a structure that can withstand greater debris loading.

It has since been twice impacted by natural disaster events in 2020 and 2021 and has remained undamaged.

Inverdon Bridge – project details:
Restoration: $5,298,051
Betterment: $837,385
Avoided cost over two events: $10,596,102