Historic bridge returned to service
Malmsbury Reservoir’s picturesque access bridge will be reinstated this month after an extensive restoration process.
General Manager Asset Lifecycle Marsha McMonigle said she was looking forward to seeing the bridge ‘come to life’ again as an iconic feature of the reservoir.
“Several years of careful planning have been invested in this project. The painstaking work then began to repair and replace parts of the walkway which had buckled and corroded over more than 100 years.
“We’ve also been able to restore the coating of the structure to match its original white colour.
“The heritage-listed structure, which provides access to the reservoir tower, has not been in operation since 2017 after an engineering audit determined it was not safe to use. The bridge has never been open for public use, but was regularly used by reservoir staff.
“It was removed by crane in December 2023, in four 12-metre long sections, which were transported off-site for assessment and repair.”
Along with the restoration work, a large amount of onsite preparation has taken place in anticipation of the bridge’s return.
“We’ve replaced the bridge’s foundations and repointed the bluestone abutment,” Mrs McMonigle said.
“Once complete, this $895,000 project will see this beautiful structure preserved and able to provide staff with safe access to the reservoir tower.”
Civil and Earth Australia carried out the works on behalf of Coliban Water.
“We also worked closely with Heritage Victoria, Dja Dja Wurrung and other key stakeholders in the lead up to the works. Everyone involved wanted to preserve the heritage of the bridge,” Mrs McMonigle said.
“As well as the technical know-how, a lot of care and passion went into this project to provide the best outcome for the structure.”
Malmsbury Reservoir was first built in 1870, while the current dam outlet, tower and 50-metre long access bridge was constructed in 1906.
The reservoir remains a popular destination for visitors and families who can enjoy walking, shoreline fishing, kayaking, canoeing and on-water recreation.
Visit connect.coliban.com.au for more information
Last updated on 03 Oct 2024