This work is part of the Mid-Murray Anabranches Constraints Demonstration Reach and is funded by the Australian Government under the Sustainable Diversion Limit Adjustment Mechanism (SDLAM) program.
New infrastructure will be constructed along Tuppal Creek and will improve ecological outcomes for these critical waterways, replacing existing barriers with clear-span bridges will enable increased flows along the system and support native fish movement.
Murray Constructions Pty Ltd has been awarded the contract enabling precast concrete fabrication to begin in early October with major construction of bridges expected to get under way later this year.
The Mid-Murray Anabranches Project aims to restore the quality and functionality of local rivers and creeks within the Murray River system by December 2026, including Tuppal, Native Dog and Bullatale creeks.
The project includes:
• boosting connectivity between the Murray and Edward Rivers
• supporting the accessibility and management requirements for private landholders
• increasing native fish passage and ecological production
• unlocking tourism and industry opportunities such as fishing and birdwatching
• enhancing wildlife habitat
• improving First Nations connection to Country.
Separately, the detailed design process is progressing well for the Bullatale and Native Dog Creek packages, and consultation with landowners and key stakeholders is ongoing.
The Mid-Murray Anabranches are located near Deniliquin and Tocumwal, and form the northern boundary of the Murray River floodplain and the eastern boundary of the Edward River floodplain.
Last year, five SDLAM Acceleration Program projects, including the Mid-Murray Anabranches, received an additional $115 million from the Australian Government along with more time to deliver critical new water infrastructure by the end of 2026 to deliver towards the Basin Plan 605GL target.
The Australian Government investment in the SDLAM Acceleration Program in NSW is now $446.2 million.
These projects combined will result in up to 45 gigalitres of water being returned to the Murray -Darling Basin, generating hundreds of direct and indirect jobs for regional NSW.
NSW DCCEEW water director infrastructure projects Andrew Lavelle said the NSW Government advocated strongly for more time and more money to complete the infrastructure projects in the basin, including the Mid-Murray Anabranches project.
“We are getting on with the job of delivering new infrastructure to support a healthier Murray and Edward River system by investing in new bridges that will help increase flows, improve connectivity and boost the native fish population,” he said.
“Replacing barriers to river flows with new clear span bridges will significantly improve outcomes for the environment, landholders, Aboriginal people and local communities which is a win-win for everyone.”
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