Sydney Harbor Bridge

Premium sightseeing excursions in Sydney, Australia, include the Opera House and the Aquarium. But another that should not be missed is the Sydney Harbor Bridge, known for its history, its size, and its symbolism. The Harbor Bridge was built between 1924 and 1932 to span the waters between the northern and southern tips of the city of Sydney. Hundreds of people were relocated without compensation to make this dream come true, and more than a dozen men died while building this noteworthy landmark. Yet in 1932 the bridge was officially opened and has continued in operation since that time. Controversy ensued when the opening ceremony scheduled for NSW Premier John T. Lang was interrupted by Captain Francis De Grout of the paramilitary unit of the New Guard, who rode up on his horse and slashed the ribbon with his sword, claiming a member of the royal family ought to be officiating. The ribbon was retied and cut as planned with the event viewed by as many as 300,000 to one million people. Originally there were two eastbound tram lanes that have since been replaced with rail lines. There are also eight traffic lanes. It is the world’s widest steel span bridge at 49 meters wide. The Bridge symbolizes Australia’s links between past and present and indigenous to immigrant peoples. On May 28, 2000, a quarter million people marched over the bridge as a symbolic apology to the original natives. The

bridge also serves as a flagstaff when banners from various organizations and nations are flown to commemorate special events, welcomes, and recognition. Sydney’s Harbor Bridge remains an important part of the area’s heritage and future. Since 1998 BridgeClimb has sponsored pedestrian climbs to the top of the bridge using special safety equipment like a coverall uniform and communications equipment. Reportedly a 100-year-old woman successfully made the climb, as has several celebrities, locals, and visitors. Harbor Bridge is considered one of the city’s most valuable assets, so plan to stop by, drive over, or sail under the bridge for a look at an important piece of Sydney’s heritage.