Victoria Bridge, Townsville

About Victoria Bridge, Townsville

The swing bridge over the Ross Creek at Stokes Street in Townsville CBD, City of Townsville, Queensland, Australia, known as Victoria Bridge, is a heritage-listed structure. Built by G. H. Royce & Co. from 1888 to 1889, this central-pivoting swing bridge is one of only two in Australia. Although the swing section stopped functioning in 1924, the bridge remained in use as a road bridge until 1975. In 1988, it underwent a redevelopment and was converted into a pedestrian-only bridge, adding modern shops along its length. The Queensland Heritage Register officially recognized its historical significance on 21 October 1992.

The visual aspect of Victoria Bridge has been significantly changed due to the addition of modern shops and the removal of the approaches. Originally, it was one of Australia’s two metal girder swing bridges, with an all-steel structure and wooden decking. The bridge had a central drum that housed the gas engine, which operated the central span. A row of contemporary shops has been constructed along its length, with a restaurant under the eastern end and an office beneath the western end. Although the swing span no longer moves, the bridge remains structurally sound. In 1991, the gas engine was removed and relocated to the city end.

What to do at Victoria Bridge, Townsville

Having met the necessary criteria, Victoria Bridge was officially added to the Queensland Heritage Register on 21 October 1992. The bridge’s significance lies in its ability to showcase Queensland’s progression and historical patterns. An ingenious solution to the challenge of constructing a bridge over a shallow waterway, the central pivoting swing design was highly innovative. Only one other bridge in Australia was built with a similar concept. Moreover, Victoria Bridge holds great esteem as it has been an integral part of the city’s landscape for over a century, playing a significant role in its development. Furthermore, the bridge acts as a testament to rare, unusual, or at-risk aspects of Queensland’s cultural heritage. It is worth noting that there is only one other bridge in Australia with a comparable design.

Victoria Bridge has been a feature of the townscape for over one hundred years, playing a major part in the city’s development. The design of this central pivoting swing bridge provided an innovative solution to the challenge of building a bridge over a shallow waterway. This place holds great importance in showcasing a high level of creative or technical achievement during a specific period. Additionally, it strongly associates with a particular community or cultural group for social, cultural, or spiritual reasons.

One local company in Townsville that is involved with this tourist attraction site is:

Website: Epoxy Floors Townsville Experts

Address: 5 Beatrice St, Aitkenvale QLD 4814

Phone: (07) 4448 3150