New South Wales

Sydney Harbour Bridge

*****   With thanks to our dear friend Srima Athureliya, from whose balcony this photograph was taken   *****

The Sydney Harbour Bridge was opened in March 1932 and it is one of the world's greatest arch bridges. Although not the longest arch span in the world, its mass and load capacity are greater than other major arch bridges, and no other bridge in Australia compares with its technical significance. The bridge was a pivotal step in the development of modern Sydney and was recognised internationally as a symbol of progress, of industrial maturity and a vision of the future for Australia.

It took more than 100 years for the idea of a bridge spanning the northern and southern shores of the harbour to become reality. Convict architect FRANCIS GREENWAY  proposed a bridge over Sydney Harbour to Governor Macquarie as early as 1815. By 1916 a suitable design was submitted by engineer J J C Bradfield and it involved an arch bridge as a key element of an integrated transport system including an extensive network of rail and roadways leading to the bridge. It wasn’t until 1924 that a contract was given to Dorman Long & Company of Middlesbrough, England to build the iconic structure.

The NSW Premier at the time, John T Lang, officially declared the bridge open, but before he could cut the ribbon, Captain Francis de Groot of the New Guard (but disguised as a military horseman), slashed it with his sword. He claimed that the bridge should have been opened by member of the royal family. The incident has become a part of Australian folklore and a symbol of the perceived national character trait of rebellion against authority.

The Sydney Harbour Bridge crosses one of the most beautiful harbours in the world and is a striking feature of Sydney’s skyline. It was part of JCC Bradfield’s vision for the bridge that it be used “at times of national rejoicing”. Today the bridge is indeed often the focus for national celebration, such as the annual New Year’s Eve celebrations broadcast across the globe.