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This year marks the 75th birthday of the iconic Brisbane landmark, the Story Bridge. Celebrations will take place on Sunday, 5 July 2015, the day before the official opening back in 1940.
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The Story Bridge, named after a prominent public servant John Douglas Story, who advocated strongly for the bridge’s construction. It is a heritage listed cantilver bridge which spans the Brisbane River. It carries vehicular, bicycle and passenger traffic from Fortitude Valley over to Kangaroo Point, linking the northern and southern suburbs of Brisbane. I remember as a child, if we ever crossed the Story Bridge (having lived on the northside most of my life) we were going on a big drive, which usually meant visiting relatives to the south west of Brisbane or to the beach on the Gold Coast.
A couple weeks ago, I had the pleasure of climbing the grand old lady in her 75th year. As a birthday present given to me by my girlfriends last year, I took advantage of doing something adventurous and climbing the Story Bridge certainly was that. At 74 metres (243 ft) high, I felt on top of the world, especially with my man. It was very nerve wracking but looking back at the photo, I’m so glad I conquered it.
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Celebrations on the 5 July 2015 include the temporary relocation of the famous Eat Street Markets from 11am until 4pm. There’ll be four band stages to entertain the crowd as well. The Brisbane City Council is issuing 60,000 free tickets on their website so you’ll have to get in quick if you want to get up close to the celebrations. The bridge is viewable from many areas in the Brisbane CBD, Kangaroo Point, Fortitude Valley and New Farm.
Next time you’re crossing it, just remember how lovely she is for an old girl. I feel proud when I see her. I know I’m always home. Happy 75th birthday Story Bridge!
