Historical information

The stretch of Kororoit Creek between Deer Park and Sunshine South contains several pedestrian bridges. Many of these structures were rudimentary in design and, in numerous cases, poorly constructed.

One of the more unusual examples is the bridge at Boorham Street, Sunshine South, which links across the Kororoit Creek to Pickersgill Avenue, Sunshine West.

This bridge was originally built by the Watkins family many decades ago, using the chassis of two railway wagons. Its purpose was entirely practical: to move cattle across the creek.

At the request of Council, the family later donated the structure, and it was subsequently decked to allow public use. However, the bridge remained inadequate, and in 1978 Council officers recommended that it be replaced as soon as possible.

Significance

The Watkins family were early agricultural settlers along the Kororoit Creek corridor, contributing to the rural foundations of Sunshine South and Sunshine West before the rise of large‑scale industry. Their presence reflects the transitional period when the district shifted from creek‑based farming to rail‑linked manufacturing.

Physical description

Digital Photograph