North Bourke Bridge, Darling River

Opened on 4 May 1883, this lift bridge was designed by J H Daniels and modified in 1895 and 1903 by E M de Burgh, both Public Works bridge engineers.

Built at the zenith of the River Trade, its construction was begun by David BailIie and completed by McCulloch & Co.

The 1895 modifications led to improved designs for subsequent lift-span bridges.

The bridge is the oldest moveable-span bridge in Australia and is the sole survivor of its type in New South Wales. It served as a 'Gateway' structure for 114 years before being bypassed in 1997.

The original North Bourke Bridge with its modern replacement behind.

North Bourke Bridge timber deck and lift span. The Engineers Australia plaque is on the left column.

North Bourke Bridge from the river bank.

Traffic over the bridge has not always been with wheels.

North Bourke Bridge over the Darling River.

The Engineers Australia plaque as originally fixed to the bridge.

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North Bourke Bridge, Darling River location map.

Engineering Heritage Recognition Program

Marker Type	Historic Engineering Marker (HEM)
Award Date	December 2004
Heritage Significance	The bridge is the oldest moveable-span bridge in Australia and is the sole survivor of its type in New South Wales.
Nomination Document	Available here.
Ceremony Booklet	Not available.
Interpretation Panel	None Installed.
Original Plans of Bridge	Available here.