Brisbane‘s iconic bridge was recently repainted to preserve and protect this 79-year-old landmark. This bridge offers two traffic lanes and two pedestrian/cyclist pathways with canopies for safety.
Construction on the bridge began on May 24, 1935. At its height, over 400 people were working on it; its foundations had to be excavated 30 metres below river surface level using deep sea diving suits for workers.
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History
Over the course of 100 years, Brisbane’s iconic Bridge has become an integral part of life in inner city Brisbane, representing Kangaroo Point and Fortitude Valley neighborhoods alike. Ferries dominated river crossings prior to its construction; ferry companies enjoyed lucrative monopolies along these routes.
In 1865, Robinson and I’Anson designed and constructed their first river bridge – named “Brisbane Bridge”, in honour of a local politician – out of ironbark wood and opened for use on June 14th 1865. However, two years later it collapsed into the river due to woodworm infestation (commonly referred to as “tedo worms”).
In 1892, the Council decided to build a new bridge and tenders were called. This time around it would feature a concrete haunched girder design; newspaper articles claimed it would accommodate six traffic lanes plus tramway tracks for trams plus footpaths on each side – quite an impressive feat of engineering!
Construction
Story Bridge was constructed as part of the State Government’s response to the Great Depression, and opened by Governor Sir Leslie Orme Wilson on 6 July 1940. This remarkable structure spans the Brisbane River connecting South Bank’s arts and cultural precinct with Queen’s Wharf Brisbane entertainment and lifestyle precinct.
Design elements inspired by the surrounding parkland context were combined with engineering excellence to produce an elegant and efficient solution. A hybrid mast/arch structure serves to support the bridge deck while offering views over city skyline and river. A large-scale lighting system illuminates its curved form to provide residents and visitors alike an evening spectacle.
Given the site constraints, Brady needed a solution that would erect the bridge mast with minimal disruption to public and private ferry operations on the river. Working closely with repeat client Brisbane City Council, designer SMEC and joint venture partner Georgiou Group, Brady devised an innovative delivery strategy.
Maintenance
Brisbane’s iconic Story Bridge stands out as an icon among world landmarks, so its appearance should reflect this status. Council regularly repaints it to keep it looking its best, yet these works may impact traffic flow.
In order to reduce traffic disruptions during 2024 maintenance works, three customized maintenance platforms will be installed beneath each bridge and can be easily moved for repairs when necessary – helping keep traffic interruptions to an absolute minimum.
Restoration works on the bridge are ongoing and will ensure its enjoyment for another 100 years. The next phase will focus on the section between Multicultural Centre and Captain Burke Park, including abrasive blasting, full new protective coatings, concrete repairs and steel repairs – this work requires closing for four nights from Sunday through Thursday; once complete resurfacing will occur and line marking will take place during two separate two-day closure periods.
Climbing the Bridge
BridgeClimb stands out among extreme sports offerings by being accessible and safe for most individuals of reasonable fitness levels, providing a fun, safe, and informative experience for participants.
The climb is expertly organized and runs like clockwork. From automatically sizing up everyone to their jumpsuits to printing out guest photos at tour’s end, every aspect of this experience ensures an enjoyable climb that won’t cause stress along the way.
Attractions to this bridge climb included walking on its beams while raindrops fell around us; it felt both thrilling and romantic! I can only imagine it would become even more dramatic during a storm or sunset. Additionally, its stunning views from above as well as fascinating tales surrounding its construction provide endless tourism potential for this landmark structure.