Construction has officially commenced on an iconic suspension bridge across the Richmond River in the NSW Northern Rivers, marking a major step towards better connecting the Casino community into the future.

The landmark suspension bridge, jointly funded by the Federal and State Governments, will form the centrepiece of a proposed new riverside precinct, connecting the Casino CBD with Queen Elizabeth Park’s sporting facilities, river walks and open spaces.

(Richie Williamson MP, Forge’s Robert Antonios, MLC Emily Suvaal and Mayor Robert Mustow turning the first sod)

The precinct forms part of the Casino CBD Activation Project, which will provide a more vibrant central business district, with increased retail, residential and community space. 

The existing Casino Footbridge sustained repeated damage during recent flood events, prompting the need for a more resilient structure in a new location.

The new suspension bridge will provide a safe, reliable and accessible shared path for both pedestrians and cyclists, improving connectivity between key recreational spaces and the town centre. 

The structure will be built above flood levels and designed to withstand strong river flows, ensuring improved reliability and safety during major weather events.

The project received $3,505,767 from the Community Local Infrastructure Recovery Package under the 2022 Community Assets Program. This package is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Council has accepted the tender from Forge Outdoors Pty Ltd (formerly Fleetwood Urban) to deliver the project.

Completion of the bridge is anticipated by the end of June 2026, weather permitting.

Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said, “This exciting initiative is a strong demonstration of the Albanese Government’s commitment to supporting communities to not just recover after disasters but to build better communities for the future.

“The new suspension bridge in Casino will provide a safe, accessible connection between key recreational spaces and the town centre, helping locals stay connected and active.”

NSW Minister for Recovery and North Coast Janelle Saffin said, “This new suspension bridge is more than just infrastructure it’s an investment in the future of our community.

“By improving access between the Casino CBD and our beautiful parks, we’re creating safer, more inclusive spaces for people to walk, cycle and connect.

“We are building back better to withstand future floods, ensuring our community stays connected even during challenging times.”

Richmond Valley Council Mayor Robert Mustow said, “The new bridge was identified in the Casino Place Plan as an important way of connecting the community to the CBD, sports fields and the river.

“I have fond memories of using the old footbridge throughout my life, and I’m sure this new, more flood-resistant and safer crossing will do the same for future generations.

“I believe it will be an iconic part of Casino, its landscape, and a tourist attraction.

“We would like to thank the Australian and NSW Governments for this vital piece of work that allows this connection to remain following flooding and weather events”