Pinjarra Traffic Bridge

Statement of Significance

Pinjarra Traffic Bridge has historic significance as the last of several attempts, since 1840,
to provide a crossing for traffic across the Murray.

Physical Description

Timber bridge, traditional wood construction. 16 spans, with a length of 96.7m.

History

The history of the bridge over the Murray River has not been a very successful one. The
current bridge, completed in 1954, is the fifth, and the longest lasting.
The first attempt was in 1840, but the structure was washed away by the flooding river. The
second try was successful and the bridge was completed in 1842, after a delay through
shortage of funds and the need to reinforce the stone piers later in the year.
In 1847 the river flooded again and this bridge was washed away. In 1853, work began on
the third bridge. The 1862 flood extensively damaged it, but it was repaired. The 1895 flood
undermined the bridge piles, and a decision was made to replace it with a fourth bridge in
1897.
The bridge was replaced by the present one in 1954, which is built on land resumed from St
John’s Churchyard.
The current traffic bridge was upgraded to its current form due to Sir Ross McLarty’s efforts
during his Premiership.
In 1974, the bridge was reinforced with a concrete overlay.

Integrity/Authenticity

Good

Condition

Good

Uses

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.