The frequent flooding of the Avon River at Stratford in Victoria has reeked havoc on the bridges suspending it. Being reported as being the fastest river to flood and drain in the entire southern hemisphere, it is hard to believe that the gently flowing stream of clear, tranquil waters has claimed the life of so many a bridge.
1850’s – 60’s – The First Bridge was constructed prior to 1863 as this bridge was all but washed away in the December of 1863
Post 1863 – A temporary bridge replaced the damaged bridge of 1863 as the community was still rallying for a new bridge in the April of 1873
A new wooden bridge was subsequently constructed sometime after 1873. Being battered by floods over numerous decades took its toll. A wander along McMillan Street towards Merrick Street reveals a plaque which commemorates the drowning of a local woman, Florence Evelyn Beechey, at just 32 years of age . . . It overlooks the site of where the vulnerable wooden bridge washed away from under her during the flood event of the 5th April 1950. She was survived by her husband and five children.
It took another 15 years before the bridge was replaced by the current road bridge, located further downstream towards the rail bridge. Completed in 1965, it has successfully stood the test of time . . .
The costs of maintaining passage across the Avon River reeked havoc on the shire as is best depicted in the photos, and, as described in the following newspaper extracts:
Helpful Hints:
– Close proximity to Town Centre – obtain Directions here
– Car Parking available along McMillan Street and in Apex Park
– Other Historical POI’s in Stratford
– Museums
– Facilities available at Stratford
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- Sealed Road