Sydney Harbour Bridge
Affectionately known as the 'Coathanger', the Sydney harbour Bridge was opened on March 19th 1932 after six years of construction. The bridge is made of steel and contains 6 million hand driven rivets. The surface area that requires painting is equal to about the surface area of 60 sports fields. The Bridge has huge hinges to absorb the expansion caused by the hot Sydney sun. You will see them on either side of the bridge at the footings of the Pylons.
Tourists can get a close look at the huge hinges while you are in Sydney by visiting the South Eastern Pylon. It is a walking trip and recommended for the fit only. It is a longish walk to get to the base of the Pylon and then there are 200 steps to the top. The views and photo opportunities are fantastic if you can make it! The Sydney harbour Bridge has a similar place in Sydney history to the Statue of Liberty in New York as far as many migrants to Australia go. In sight of the bridge you knew you had made it.
Sydney Harbour Bridge is the world's largest but not longest steel arch bridge, and, in its beautiful harbour location, has become a renowned international symbol of Australia. Its total length including approach spans is 1149 metres and its arch span is 503 metres. The top of the arch is 134 metres above sea level and the clearance for shipping under the deck is a spacious 49 metres. The total steelwork weighs 52,800 tonnes, including 39,000 tonnes in the arch. The 49 metre wide deck makes Sydney Harbour Bridge the widest Longspan Bridge in the world.
The Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb is easier than it first appears as the gradient leading to the top of Sydney Harbour Bridge is not that steep. But the bridge climb will take your breath away! The Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of the most fascinating engineering structures in the world, and one of the most recognised icons of the greatest harbour in the world. On your exhilarating Bridge Climb adventure, you will make your way over 1500 metres of steel as you venture across catwalks, steep ladders and arches on your way to the summit. You'll stop there to rest and take in the most spectacular 360 degree view of Sydney harbour and city.
