The recent bushfires in Victoria's north-east have tragically claimed the historical trestle bridges along the High Country Rail Trail, with 12 of the 13 bridges completely destroyed. These hand-built structures represented over a century of craftsmanship, community efforts, and historical significance. Strong winds from a nearby bushfire, estimated to have burnt 122,000 hectares of land, rapidly advanced towards the bridges, leaving volunteers and the local community devastated as they lost a cherished part of their heritage.

Only two bridges on the trail remained relatively safe, as the other eleven had been rendered too unstable to cross. This destruction is particularly significant as these bridges were not just functional elements of a trail; they were recognized for their beauty and historical importance. Rail Trails Australia vice-president Steven Kaye described them as amazing features that contributed to the unique experience of cycling and walking through the stunning scenery of the High Country, a region that draws in over 160,000 visitors annually, according to Tourism North East data from 2022.

The loss of these bridges is more than just a physical blow; it reflects the broader impacts of climate events, such as bushfires and floods, which pose ongoing threats to historical structures across the region. The destruction also raises concerns about how communities can preserve their heritage amid increasing environmental challenges. The rebuilding and restoration of such structures will require significant resources and commitment from the community, further highlighting the need for proactive measures to protect vulnerable historical sites in the future.