Tramway Lift Bridge over Maroochy River

Significance, from the State Heritage Listing Citation 2016

Criterion A

The place is important in demonstrating the evolution or pattern of Queensland’s history.

The Moreton Central Sugar Mill operated between 1897 and December 2003. During the 20th century, sugar growing was the most important primary industry in the Maroochy district. It was a key factor in the development of Nambour and the Maroochy Shire and important in the growth of the sugar industry in Queensland. The cane tramway, which brought cane from many farms to the mill for crushing, was an essential part of the operation of the mill. The line between Nambour and Coolum was also used for passengers in the 1920s and 30s and was instrumental in the development of the tourist industry in the area, by linking the QR station next to the Nambour mill with resort areas at Coolum and Maroochydore.

Criterion B

The place demonstrates rare, uncommon or endangered aspects of Queensland’s cultural heritage.

The timber lift bridge that carries the tramway across the Maroochy River is rare and may be the only surviving bridge of its type in Queensland.

Criterion D

The place is important in demonstrating the principal characteristics of a particular class of cultural places.

The bridge, though small in scale, demonstrates the principle and working of a lift bridge well, having a moveable span set between two towers and pulleys and counterweights which raise the span to allow river traffic to pass underneath.

2019 Tramway Lift Bridge over Maroochy River drone images from Randy Lagerway force8 Photo Digital

Randy took his drone out on the 5th Jan to capture these still and movie images. Unfortunately, the quality had to be cut back to post here, but an original is attached below for downloading.

Randy was responding to a change.org petition to help conserve the bridge

2019 drone movie from Randy Lagerway force8 Photo Digital

1992 image from Roger Todd

Coolum Topographic Map, Queensland Government Dept of Mapping and Surveying 1977, selected field revision 1980

Gregory, Helen. Making Maroochy, Boolarong Publications with Maroochy Shire Council 1991 p89

industrial heritage, transport, railways, cane train