Reflecting sunlight dances on the Georges River. Today we explore the Old Como Railway Bridge. It is a testament to Sydney’s railway history. The Old Como Railway Bridge is more than just a crossing. It’s a journey through time.
Completed in 1885, this bridge was part of the Illawarra railway line expansion. It connected Hurstville to Sutherland. John Whitton designed it. He was the Chief Engineer of the New South Wales Government Railways. The bridge is a single track lattice truss design.
Within five years, the single track became a problem. The tracks on either side became double. To solve this, engineers created a gauntlet track. This allowed trains to cross in either direction without points. It was a unique solution for its time.
Between 1935 and 1942, the bridge gained a new purpose. The Metropolitan Water Sewerage and Drainage Board added pipelines. These pipelines carried water from Woronora Dam to Penshurst reservoirs. To balance the load, they split one large pipeline into two smaller ones. Each ran along one side of the bridge.
By 1972, the Old Como Railway Bridge was outdated. A new double track bridge was built. It was made of reinforced concrete. The old bridge was no longer needed for trains. Ownership transferred to the Water Board. Now known as Sydney Water, this agency still owns the bridge.
In 1985, a new chapter began. The old railway track was converted. It became a cycleway and footpath. This transformation was a joint effort. Sutherland and Georges River Councils shared the costs. The community now had a vital link across the Georges River.
The Old Como Railway Bridge is the longest single track lattice girder bridge in New South Wales. It is also the only one within 250 kilometers of Sydney. This makes it a rare and significant structure.
The bridge is more than just steel and water pipes. It is a heritage icon. It was added to the New South Wales State Heritage Register on 15 November 2002. This recognizes its historical and cultural importance.
The Old Como Railway Bridge played a vital role. It opened up Sydney’s southern suburbs in the 1880s. The railway line encouraged development. Towns and suburbs emerged along its path. People flocked to Como’s boatsheds, baths, and fishing spots. They also visited the adjacent National Park.
The Old Como Railway Bridge stands as a reminder. It reminds us of the past. It also provides a link to the present. As we cross, let’s appreciate its history. Let’s also celebrate its ongoing contribution to the community. Take a moment to enjoy the view. Think about those who built and used this iconic structure.