Council meets with State Government representatives on road damages
Published on 12 March 2025
Image: Transport for NSW Staff escort Hon. Jenny Aitchison MP and Michael Kemp MP to the slip on Newell Falls accompanied by Bellingen Shire Council's Acting General Manager Todd Williams and Deputy General Manager of Operations Ashley Greenwood.
Bellingen Shire Council has met with Minister for Regional Roads and Transport, Hon. Jenny Aitchison MP, and Member for Oxley, Michael Kemp MP, to discuss the widespread damage to the Bellingen Shire road network following recent heavy rainfall.
Council representatives, including Acting General Manager Todd Williams and Deputy General Manager Operations Ashley Greenwood, highlighted the severe impacts on both state and local roads, including significant landslips in Deer Vale and extensive damage in Kalang and Darkwood.
The visit included a site inspection of the landslip at Newell Falls, with Transport for NSW and Council crews currently working hard to restore access of this major thoroughfare as quickly as possible. Crews have cleared some fallen trees, but large rocks and unstable trees remain on the upslope, posing ongoing risks.
Image: Newell Falls on Dorrigo Mountain.
Bellingen Shire Mayor Cr. Steve Allan passed on his concern for affected communities, particularly in Dorrigo, which recorded the some of the highest rainfall in the state during this event.
“When Waterfall Way is cut off, it presents significant challenges including the isolation of Dorrigo and surrounding communities,” Mayor Cr. Allan said. “Residents are unable to use this route for work, education, and essential supplies, and most critically, emergency services face major challenges reaching those in need.”
“This most recent event is another example of why we need to have reliable alternative routes available when Waterfall Way is impacted and a strengthened more resilient network to withstand increasing weather events.”
“I want to thank Minister Aitchison and Member for Oxley Michael Kemp for taking the time to visit our region and meet with Council. Their engagement is critical in ensuring our community’s needs are heard at the highest levels, and we look forward to ongoing collaboration for road recovery and resilience.”
Acting Bellingen Shire Council General Manager, Todd Williams, highlighted the impacts that this severe weather event has had right across the Shire’s road network.
“The scale of damage across the Shire is significant, with multiple roads affected,” said Mr Williams. “We know these disruptions are frustrating for residents, and we are pushing for urgent repairs and clear timelines for reopening key routes, however safety of both the workers on site and our community is paramount.”
Council appreciates the community’s patience and will share further updates as they become available. Residents are encouraged to monitor the Live Traffic NSW and follow both Transport for NSW and Bellingen Shire Council channels for the latest information on the re-opening of Dorrigo Mountain.