More than 80 people came together for a public meeting in Bundarra’s School of Arts Hall last Wednesday night to begin a campaign for a flood-proof bridge over the Gwydir River just south-east of the township. The Emu Crossing is a concrete, low-level construction and is regularly covered by flood waters.
Locals say they are fed up with being cut off from Armidale and seeing the significant Thunderbolt’s Way cut.
The night was about action and a committee was formed to build political pressure and keep the ball rolling.
Spokesperson for the Emu Crossing Committee, Melissa Lowell said that the Emu Crossing is an issue that has united her community.
Another meeting was held on Monday night at Bundarra’s School of Arts Hall, where plans for the campaign were finalised.
Member for Northern Tablelands Richard Torbay said he is supportive of the campaign.
“The Bundarra community has been in constant contact with me over the Emu Crossing. I’ve met with the Uralla Shire Council. I am working on a submission with them and I’m keen to take that submission forward to the Minister and make it clear to him that this is a very significant regional road, every time it gets flooded, people cannot get through and they don’t have efficient alternatives. It has to be fixed.”
“Inverell Shire Council has also given “in principal’ support,” Mr Torbay said.
“It is important that the Bundarra community is united and is being positive,” he said.
Member for New England, Tony Windsor, has also voiced his support. “Bundarra fought for their aged care facility against enormous odds and won. I’m confident that they can win a fight for a mere bridge. I’ll be right behind them.”
Story: Gary Fry
