Bluestone Bridge

Location

Ballarat Road, BATESFORD VIC 3215 - Property No B1339

File Number

B1339

Level

State

Statement of Significance


The five span, segmental arch bridge across the Moorabool River at the ford crossing place at Batesford was erected in 1859 to replace an earlier timber structure of 1848. Well-known bridge contractor Barry erected this basalt bridge on piles and timber rafts from designs prepared by engineers in the Victorian Government Board of Land and Works (Roads Division).
The masonry arch bridge over the Moorabool River at the historic crossing place at Batesford is one of the finest masonry bridge structures in Victoria and one which is unusually constructed, not having any keystone at the centre of each arch. The bridge is located near the historic Traveller's Rest Inn of 1849 and has facilitated communication between Ballarat and Geelong since 1859.
The Moorabool River masonry arch bridge at Batesford is in good condition and continuous use. The structure is intact.
Of State significnace.

Classified: 04/10/1966

Revised: classified: State: 03/08/1998

Group

Transport - Road

Category

Road Bridge