|
Sydney Harbour Bridge
 The
Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of those attractions that looks good in
guide books and on websites, and doesn't disappoint in any way when you
see it in person. A truly massive structure, it was designed by Doctor
John Bradfield, following an original suggestion by the convict
architect Francis Greenway back in 1815. Started in 1923, the 550 metre
"Coathanger" is the largest single arch bridge in the world. Built at a
cost of $AUS 20 million, it is held together by 6 million rivets, and
finally opened to traffic in 1932.
The day
was marked by a huge parade and excited Sydneysiders were given their
first opportunity to walk across the structure, which would link the
northern suburbs with the main city for the first time.
 They
had to wait another 50 years for a repeat performance, when the bridge was
closed to traffic once again during the bridge's birthday celebrations in
1982.
The
Sydney Harbour Bridge, as well as being a vital route for traffic heading
to and from the north, provides unparalleled views of the city, harbour
and Opera House, and a walk along the pathway which stretches from
Cumberland Street in the Rocks, all the way over to Milson's Point on the
north shore, is highly recommended. En route, why not take advantage of
the Observation Pylon at the southern end of the bridge.
For a
nominal $AUS 2 ($AUS 1 concessions), you can feast your eyes on some
fascinating historical facts, old photos and get a real sense of what this
bridge really means to the city. At the top of the tower there is an
observation platform which overlooks the harbour and, though the pylon is
obviously far shorter than the AMP Centrepoint Tower, it gives a more
detailed view of what is surely one of the most beautiful harbours in the
World.
Whilst
on the northern side, why not take a look at Luna Park Alfred Street,
Milson's Point - a Sydney institution that has seen better days. Standing
on the site that the Bridge workshops used to occupy, the amusement park
became an essential day out for children in Sydney in its hey-day, but was
closed in 1979 by fire on the Ghost Train. Various proposals have been put
forward for the site, ranging from updating it to modern day standards
with a massive rollercoaster, to levelling it completely and turning it
into a hotel or residential complex.
It
had its 40 year lease up for sale and remained closed until recently, empty, and
yet eerily fascinating to visit with the abandoned dodgems and trademark
smiley face at the entrance. Luna Park, combined with the municipal
Olympic Pool just up the road gives a sense of the new era which dawned on
the north shore once the Bridge had opened.
If the half hour
walk across the bridge and sightseeing on the north shore has left you
exhausted, you can catch a train from Milson's Point Station, which is
built into the bridge. Better still, take a stroll through
Kirribilli, towards the ferry wharf. Go via the official residence of
the federal prime minister at
Kirribilli House (1855), and the Queen's representative, the Governor
General, next door at Admiralty House (1846) Kirribilli Avenue. These
houses are occasionally opened to the public, but when they are shut, the
police who stand guard at the gates seem happy to talk you though some of
the houses' history.
 The
wharf is a little further down in Holbrook Avenue and you can catch the
ferry back to Circular Quay from here. It is a 4-5 minute trip that will
give you another scenic perspective on the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
For
those with a real sense of adventure, and $AUS 98 in their pocket, why not
try a bridge climb. It has been 70 years in the making, but now
Sydneysiders and visitors alike can get a unique view of the city from the
top of the Bridge. Naturally, all the safety gear is supplied, and the
three hour climb is sure to be a lifelong memory. A weekend climb up
Sydney Harbour Bridge will set you back $AUS 120, a night climb $120 -
$140. Book through your travel agent.
|
