Story Bridge

Go ahead and admire the massive steel structure right in front of you. This is Brisbane’s iconic Story Bridge. While the Victoria Bridge was being constructed in 1865, connecting the northern and southern parts of the city, hundreds of people demanded a similar structure between the customs house and the Kangaroo Point suburbs. Their wish was granted, as construction began five years later, and the Story Bridge was finally opened on July 6, 1940. Its 14 years of construction provided employment for many men during the Great Depression, the huge economic crisis of the 1930s. Listed on Queensland’s heritage register, the Story Bridge is the largest steel bridge designed in Australia by Australians. As a result, maintaining its 777-meter length requires 17,500 liters of paint every seven years. Along with Sydney’s and Auckland’s bridges, Brisbane’s landmark is one of only three bridges in the world that can be climbed. This means that anyone over the age of 10, in good physical condition, and unafraid of heights, can scale the bridge. The reward? A breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the city, and even a glimpse of the distant mountain ranges—a magical sight.