The Kawasaki Bridge has returned to the gardens, but isn’t open just yet. Photo: Wollongong City Council.
The bright red Kawasaki Bridge has been returned to Wollongong Botanic Gardens after the decades-old structure was removed earlier this year for essential maintenance.
The traditional Japanese bridge gifted to Wollongong more than 30 years ago has been craned back into Wollongong Botanic Gardens after concerns about the deteriorating timber prompted the removal of the structure for repairs.
“The bridge’s return went smoothly and we’re delighted to see it back in place,” Wollongong Botanic Gardens curator Felicity Skoberne said.
“Now we’re focused on the next stage of works for the project which is about fresh plantings and other key repairs around the site.”
The iconic bridge was gifted by the City of Kawasaki in 1993 to mark the fifth anniversary of its Sister City relationship with Wollongong and has become a popular spot for photography and visitors and locals alike.
But in the 21 years since its last repair, which replicated its original material of a Japanese softwood, the bridge has struggled with the humidity and rainfall in Wollongong.
Now, it’s built to last.
“The updated bridge has been reconstructed using durable Australian hardwoods, which are suited to the local climate, and it has been painted to replicate its original vivid red,” a Wollongong City Council spokesperson said.
“The bridge post heads were retained with their distinctive ornamental shapes which are key features of the bridge.”
“This is an exciting milestone for this project with the refurbishment undertaken by local contractors and suppliers,” Wollongong Lord Mayor Tania Brown said.
“Looking at it, it looks like the original drum bridge which is a great outcome.”
The bridge was carefully removed in June to minimise disruption and, although it has now returned, it remains off-limits.
“While people will be able to glimpse the bridge, it will remain behind fencing to allow the team to carry out additional work in the rejuvenation of this popular spot within the 27 ha gardens,” Cr Brown said.
“The project is on track, and we anticipate it will reopen in time for summer and those much-loved photos on the top of the bridge.”
