WE GOT another look at what happens when there’s a disruption to traffic on the Phillip Island Bridge last Thursday.
While contractors were erecting banners ahead of the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix, traffic was banked up for kilometres on both sides of the bridge for several hours.
According to feedback on social media, it added 16 minutes to your trip, with traffic management personnel keeping one lane open alternatively.
Some suggested the work could have been carried out at night or in the early morning when traffic was light, others were tolerant about preparations for the hosting the GP on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, October 17, 18 and 19.
While local businesspeople and tradesmen bemoaned regular traffic delays getting on and off the Island, it also delayed the funeral cortege for former council watcher, Jon Trigt, who was buried at San Remo last Thursday following his funeral at Cowes making mourners late for the wake at the Phillip Island RSL.
However, according to Transport Victoria, additional inspection and assessment works, ahead of major bridge rehabilitation work, will commence after the GP from 8pm, Monday, October 20 and are expected to be completed by early November 2025.
“We are installing additional sensors to the San Remo/Philip Island bridge as part of our bridge inspection works,” said Transport Victoria.
“These works will take place mostly at night to minimise disruption to traffic.”
The works involve the use of a Bridge Inspection Unit to access the sides and underneath the bridge.
“Our bridge inspection works, including underwater checks, were completed in late November 2024 and sensors installed in March 2025.
“Sensors allow real-time monitoring, reducing the frequency of on-site inspections and traffic disruption.
Traffic impacts
Lane closures and a 40km/h speed limit will be in place from 8pm to 6am (Sunday evening to Saturday morning).
Night works will start from 8pm, Monday, October 20, 2025, and are expected to be completed in early November 2025.
Daytime works involving lane closures may take place during off-peak times.
There will be no lane closures on Saturday nights, public holidays or during the Victorian school holidays.
Next steps
“The data collected from the inspections and sensors helps us assess the bridge’s structural condition and performance and guides our ongoing maintenance strategy.
“We are finalising delivery timeframes for the San Remo Bridge rehabilitation works which will be undertaken by Big Build Roads.”
For more information about this project:
- Email: gippslandprojects@transport.vic.gov.au
- Call: 133 778
- Write to: Department of Transport and Planning (DTP), GPO Box 2392, Melbourne 3001
- To stay informed on Transport Victoria projects happening in Gippsland subscribe to Transport Victoria Gippsland email newsletter on the website click HERE
