Historical information

These photographs, taken by The Advocate in 1988, feature the Arundel Road Bridge spanning the Maribyrnong River at Keilor. At the time, the timber bridge was still carrying vehicle traffic between Keilor, Keilor North and Bulla, while its concrete replacement can be seen in the background.

The Arundel Road Bridge was one of the most historically significant river crossings in Melbourne's west and a rare surviving timber trestle bridge associated with the Closer Settlement movement and the early agricultural development of the Keilor district. For many decades, it provided an important transport link across the Maribyrnong River for local residents, farmers and travellers.

In 1991, the City of Keilor proposed demolishing the bridge due to the high costs of restoration and ongoing maintenance. Following strong community opposition and heritage advocacy, the decision was later reversed. The bridge subsequently became a symbol of local heritage conservation and community action.

The bridge's history encompasses construction challenges, flood damage, preservation campaigns, restoration works and eventual closure. In 2022, the structure was destroyed when a shipping container struck the bridge during the major Maribyrnong River floods, bringing an end to one of the district's most recognisable historic landmarks.

Significance

These photographs were taken shortly before the new concrete bridge opened just upstream in 1989. They offer a rare glimpse of vehicles using the old timber trestle bridge in its final years.

Physical description

Digital scans of black and white negatives

Inscriptions & markings

6853.01 - Arundel Road Bridge Keilor 1988 Photographs (Advocate 537.2).JPG

6853.02 - Arundel Road Bridge Keilor 1988 Photographs (Advocate 537.2).JPG

6853.03 - Arundel Road Bridge Keilor 1988 Photographs (Advocate 537.2).JPG