General News
12 February, 2026
Mt Emu Creek upgrade complete
UPGRADES to Mount Emu Creek Bridge at Panmure have now been completed thanks to a partnership between Federal and State Governments which aims to deliver safer and stronger infrastructure in south west Victoria.
Upgrades to the bridge include reinforced structures, ensuring strength and durability to continue meeting the demands of traffic volumes and modern freight vehicles travelling along the highway.
The Mount Emu Creek Bridge is located about 30 metres east of Billet Street in Panmure and was built in 1959.
The completion of modern upgrades to the bridge brings about improved road safety for drivers, providing them with better connections to jobs, services, and goods.
The Princes Highway serves as a major transport link through south west Victoria and connects major regional centres with regional industries.
Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora said the upgrades would support the region’s bustling freight network.
“Completing these upgrades means locals and freight operators can travel with greater confidence, knowing this important link on the Princes Highway is safer, stronger and built to support south west Victoria’s future,” she said.
Further projects have been planned and completed as part of the corridor upgrades, which include a number of bride upgrades and the installation of new overtaking lanes on either side of Terang.
Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne said the upgrades would meet the long-term needs on the highway.
“Our investment into upgrading the bridge reinforces our commitment to future-proofing existing infrastructure to meet to growing needs of the region,” she said.
The project was funded with a $2.49 million investment from the Federal Government and $515,000 from the Victorian Government.
The projects ensure a more connected route which is more resilient to change and population growth while also boosting the local economy.
Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government Kristy McBain said safety had been a point of emphasis when considering the allocation of funding.
“This upgrade is about keeping regional Victorians safe and connected, while ensuring our transport infrastructure can support local jobs, freight and growing communities now and into the future,” she said.
Federal Senator for Victoria Raff Ciccone agreed safety would be at the forefront when delivering upgrades under joint Victorian and Commonwealth projects.
“With the completion of the Mount Emu Creek Bridge upgrades, we’re strengthening connections across the south west, enabling safer journeys and supporting local economic routes,” he said.
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