Published on Friday, 9 August 2024 at 2:42:29 PM

The Byford Brickworks Bridge has been honoured with an exciting new art installation, located at the former site of the historic landmark.

The bridge, also known as the "Millbrace Bridge", was built in 1913 to provide rail access to the State-operated Brickworks and, eventually between the Naval Ordnance Depot and the State Brickworks. Once rail traffic ceased in the 1960s, the 22.7-metre-long timber structure was used as a pedestrian footbridge until it was deemed unsafe and closed in 2003.

Ongoing assessment was undertaken to determine options for restoring the bridge, but in 2010 it was decided that restoration was not viable, with more than 50 per cent of the original materials beyond repair.

Council ultimately resolved to have the bridge demolished in 2016, recognising its significance – and that of the trainline on the Shire’s development – with an interpretive art piece. This piece, made from cut Corten steel, is designed to rust and blend in with the natural environment while representing the train tracks.

The train depicted is representative of the 1930s era goods trains that travelled the line. If you'd like to view the recently-installed piece, you can find it at the end of Millbrace Glen, off Nettleton Road, Byford.

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