Swan Hill Road Bridge, Murray River

Designed by NSW Public Works engineer Percy Allan MICE and built by Messrs J Band W Farquharson of Melbourne, this lift-span bridge was opened in 1896. Built to cater for paddle steamers of the river trade, it was cheaper, more reliable and easier to operate than earlier lift bridges. It enhanced Swan Hill as a centre of river trade and rural commerce, contributing to the prosperity of the town and district of which it has become a symbol.

Swan Hill Bridge
Source: Swan Hill Rural City Council

Swan Hill Bridge
Source: Wikipedia

HEM Plaque
Source: Monument Australia

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Engineering Heritage Recognition Program

Marker Type	Heritage Engineering Marker (HEM)
Award Date	May 2004
Heritage Significance	The Bridge is important for its association with eminent PWD bridge engineer Percy Allan. The timber truss spans are the oldest surviving examples of Percy Allan's innovative 1893 redesign of timber truss road bridges. Subsequent lift bridges followed the pattern set by the Swan Hill Bridge.
Nomination Document	Available here.
Ceremony Booklet Ceremony Report	Not Available.
Plaque/Interpretation Panel	See above.