Ferntown Bridge Work Proceeds

To expedite the demolition of the old Ferntown Bridge over the Aorere River, Colling-wood, and the erection of the new bridge, the old bridge was literally blown off its piles. Explosive charges strategically placed at each end of a span, were,, exploded simultaneously and the old wooden sections dropped into the river. The new steel spans which will hold the new bridge decking had already been swung into place above their sites. After the wooden sections had been blasted away, the spans were lowered into place.

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At top, old and the new bridge.

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The charges are exploded and a section of the bridge falls.

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The new span awaits lowering into position as the old one hits the water.

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Looking along the catwalk after the explosion. (Pix by Jack Solly).