Seymour Whyte has celebrated the successful completion of the Wellington Dam Bridge Replacement Project for Water Corporation, marking an important milestone for the Collie community and tourism in Western Australia’s South West.
The bridge has officially opened to motorists and pedestrians, replacing the single-lane crossing constructed in 1966. The modern 64-metre dual-lane structure provides wider traffic lanes, improved alignment and greater accessibility for larger vehicles, including buses and coaches.
A wider pedestrian walkway creates a safer and more enjoyable experience for visitors while providing panoramic, unobstructed views of Reflections, the 8,000-square-metre mural created by artist Guido van Helten across the Wellington Dam wall.
The completed bridge will strengthen connections to Wellington National Park, which attracts more than 276,000 visitors each year, while supporting the region’s continued growth as a nature-based tourism destination.
Engineering a lasting connection
Delivering the new structure required approximately 370 tonnes of structural steel and 2,100 cubic metres of concrete. Construction also supported around 50 jobs and generated subcontracting opportunities for businesses across the local and regional supply chain.
The project included the replacement of the existing bridge at the foot of Wellington Dam, new approaches, upgraded safety barriers and a new pedestrian footpath. These improvements were designed to create a safer, more accessible connection while respecting the site’s environmental, cultural and community significance.
Careful planning and collaboration were central to delivery. The project team worked closely with Water Corporation, delivery partners, subcontractors and suppliers to manage the challenges of working within a sensitive and highly visited location.
Seymour Whyte General Manager, Western Region Mark Davidovic, said the bridge represented the combined effort and commitment of everyone involved.
“The completion of the Wellington Dam Bridge is a proud achievement for our team and our partners. We have delivered a safer and more accessible crossing that responds to the needs of the community while enhancing the experience of everyone who visits this remarkable location.
“This outcome reflects the expertise, care and determination of our people, as well as the strong collaboration we have shared with Water Corporation, our subcontractors, suppliers and regional partners.”
Supporting the South West’s future
Beyond its engineering significance, the new bridge will help more people experience Wellington Dam and the wider Collie region.
Its improved access will support pedestrians, motorists and tour operators, while the walkway provides a new vantage point over the dam and its landmark mural. The bridge also connects with the wider visitor experience, including the walkway across the 367-metre dam wall and the 87-kilometre Wiilman Bilya Trail.
The project follows Seymour Whyte’s delivery of the culturally significant Boorloo Bridge and represents another important step in the company’s long-term growth in Western Australia.
The successful completion of the Wellington Dam Bridge reflects the strength of collaborative delivery and Seymour Whyte’s commitment to building infrastructure that improves everyday journeys, supports regional economies and creates positive legacies for communities.
Key project facts
Client: Water Corporation
Location: Wellington Dam, near Collie, Western Australia
Bridge length: 64 metres
Structural steel: Approximately 370 tonnes
Concrete: Approximately 2,100 cubic metres
Key features: Dual traffic lanes, improved road alignment, upgraded safety barriers and a wider pedestrian walkway
