Hunter history buffs and local tourism operators have received a boost with brand-new heritage interpretation signage installed at the Cooreei, Monkerai and Hinton bridges.
Cooreei Bridge over the Williams River at Dungog is historically important as it was the first Henry Harvey Dare-type timber truss bridge to be built in NSW.
Dare reworked Percy Allan’s design for the earlier timber truss bridges, which resulted in a stronger and more sustainable bridge for Cooreei.
The newly installed signage for Monkerai Bridge over the Karuah River will depict its long history as the second-oldest surviving timber truss bridge in NSW, completed in 1882.
Signage on the Cooreei bridge shares its story from the award of tender in 1902 to its official opening on 16 August 1905.
Hinton Bridge, located in Port Stephens, is historically important as one of only three lift bridges remaining in the Hunter region.
The bridge’s new signage explains how the lift span is a significant technological feature of 19th century bridge engineering associated with historic river trade along the Paterson River.
The timber truss bridges of NSW are managed by Transport for NSW.
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Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Jenny Aitchison said:
“These newly installed signs tell the stories about the evolution of three essential landmarks.
“These signs pay a wonderful homage to the history of these historic bridges which have connected communities and visitors for more than a century, respectively.
“More than 400 timber truss road bridges were built in New South Wales between 1856 and 1936. Less than 30 remain as rare and representative examples, a heritage jewel of the State.
“The NSW Government is thrilled to be able to help locals and visitors relive history with these signs.
“Interpretative signs help tourists and locals connect with their destination and drive economic boosts to local economies.”
Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said:
“These iconic bridges have connected communities and visitors across our wonderful region for many, many years.
“Timber truss bridges are a significant part of the Hunter’s history and I’m proud their stories are now on display, to endure for years to come.”
Minister for Families and Communities, Minister for Disability Inclusion and Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said:
“Hinton Bridge has acted as an iconic landmark for the Port Stephens community for more than 120 years.
“This signage will share the significant history of the bridge, which through its long life has stood strong through many changes, continuing to connect our community and visitors.
“Now everyone who passes by will be able to learn about the significant history of one of our region’s most historically important bridges.”
NSW Duty MLC for Upper Hunter Emily Suvaal said:
“Both the Monkerai and Cooreei bridges have high individual and collective heritage value.
“Monkerai Bridge is the second oldest surviving timber truss bridge in NSW while Cooreei Bridge is one of just 15 historic bridges in the Hunter built before 1905.
“They are listed and recognised as of historic significance by Transport for NSW and are on the NSW State Heritage Register.
“Both the Monkerai Bridge and Cooreei Bridge are exceptionally rare examples of these historic bridges.”
