Spanning just over 500 metres the Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of Australia’s iconic structures. Featuring as the major landmark in Sydney the Harbour Bridge was built between 1924 and 1932, is supported on four giant granite pylons and stretches 49 metres above the water below. Comprised of 53,000 tonnes of steelwork which is held together with approximately 6 million rivets, the bridge was designed by an English firm, Dorman Long and Company of Middlesborough, and constructed by 1,400 men over an eight year period. The dramatic arch, which is nicknamed ‘The Coathanger’, reaches to 134 metres above sea level and provides access to the viewing platform which stands on the very top of the arch.
The Harbour Bridge Climb is one of Sydney’s ‘must do’ activities and huge fun. Dressed in special gear and clamped to a safety rope, visitors scramble up the catwalks and ladders, and peer through the steel mesh floors of the many platforms which gradually lead to the massive steel girders of the main frame. Seemingly as wide as a road, these huge curved beams gradually rise to the viewing platform where the brilliant sun, high winds and clear skies allow the best view in Sydney to be enjoyed. Overlooking the nearby Opera House, Sydney C.B.D. and the magnificent harbour which stretches out far below, the exhilarating view is one of Sydney’s major highlights. To complement the climb, the Pylon Lookout, which is located in the south-eastern pylon, contains an exhibition where visitors can learn about the history and construction of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The Pylon Lookout also provides a viewing platform which offers 360 degree views approximately 87 metres above the harbour waters.
|