October 8, 2024
The centenary of the original “Swinging Bridge” over Cooyar Creek at Cooyar was marked by a small ceremony in the nearby park on Friday.
The celebration was organised by the Cooyar Progress Association and featured the unveiling of a new signboard, sponsored by Stanwell.
The original Swinging Bridge was built in 1924 by a group of local men to enable residents who lived on the other side to get to town when the creek was in flood.
Local dairy farmers also used the bridge to carry cream cans to the railway.
The original bridge was damaged by floodwater several times and rebuilt, but the tragic 1988 flash flood – which washed away buildings in town and killed two residents – completely destroyed the structure.
Fortunately, a government disaster grant enabled the current Swinging Bridge to be built, under the guidance of a retired engineer, Chris Van Espen, who had moved to Cooyar in 1985.
This is the bridge which stands today, and although it’s no longer a vital structure for transport, it’s very popular with local residents … and tourists.
Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington congratulated the Cooyar Progress Association for organising the centenary celebration.
“The swinging footbridge is an iconic part of Cooyar and its history, and I was so pleased to join with the community for these celebrations,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“I believe it is so important for communities to keep their history alive and celebrate these significant milestones.”
A guest speaker on the day was former Rosalie Shire councillor – and long-time Cooyar resident – Neville McNalty who was related to one of the men who originally built the first bridge 100 years ago.
[Photos: Nanango Electorate Office and Stanwell]
