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Moorabool River Rail Bridge
LocationMidland Highway BATESFORD, GOLDEN PLAINS SHIRE LevelIncluded in Heritage Overlay |
Statement of Significance
National Estate Register: This original bridge, designed by I K Brunel, was the largest of early Australian metal bridges, until the first Hawkesbury Bridge in 1889. In 1885 and 1893 strengthening of the bridge was recommended and in 1919 the trusses were replaced by metal girders and steel trestles were placed at each mid-span, changing the spans from 19.6m to 16.0m, 7.6m and 16.0m. The bridge still has considerable length for a 1919 metal girder bridge. However, the most significant parts of the bridge are the massive stone piers and abutments which remain as an important part of the original bridge.
The original Moorabool Viaduct was opened in April 1862, as part of the historic Ballarat to Geelong Railway. As originally built it carried two 1.6m gauge rail tracks, with deck-type Warren trusses spanning 10m x 39.6m. The maximum height was 35.1m; the piers were of stone.
Group
Transport - Rail
Category
Railway Bridge/ Viaduct