Victoria Bridge, Devonport facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Victoria Bridge |
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Victoria Bridge view from the Southern Aspect
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| Coordinates | 41°11′34″S 146°22′2″E / 41.19278°S 146.36722°E |
| Carries | Bass Highway |
| Crosses | Mersey River |
| Locale | Devonport, Tasmania, Australia |
| Official name | Victoria Bridge |
| Maintained by | Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources |
| Characteristics | |
| Design | Prestressed concrete Girder |
| History | |
| Opened | 1901 1973 (reopened) |
The Victoria Bridge is a very important bridge over the Mersey River in Devonport, Tasmania, Australia. It first opened in 1901, making it much easier for people to travel without needing boats or ferries.
The first Victoria Bridge partly fell down in 1924. This happened because tiny worms called teredo worms had been eating away at its wooden parts.
In 1973, a strong new concrete bridge took its place. This new bridge carries the Bass Highway, which is a major road. This highway connects different parts of Devonport, like Miandetta and Stony Rise on one side, and East Devonport and Ambleside on the other.
About the Victoria Bridge
The Victoria Bridge offers a great view of the port and all the ships. Many people look out for the big ships like the Spirit of Tasmania ferries or the cargo ships Searoad Mersey and Searoad Tamar. You can also often see the beautiful old wooden ship, the Julie Burgess.
The Port of Devonport Authority uses the Victoria Bridge to mark the edge of the port area. Also, you can even fish for certain local fish in the Mersey River below the bridge without needing a special fishing license. Some local businesses have even named themselves after the bridge!
Speed Camera and Safety
A camera that checks car speeds was put near the Victoria Bridge in East Devonport on November 18, 2015. This helps keep drivers safe.
Past Events
On August 3, 1959, a car went off the road near the eastern end of the Victoria Bridge and into the Mersey River.
