Burra’s Kooringa Bridge,
the coolest 145-year-old you’ll ever meet

Last weekend we were in Burra for the day and with some time to spare, I started wandering some of the local streets. That’s when I into this absolute beast of a bridge. The Kooringa Bridge, they call it. And get this – this bad boy has been hanging around since your great-great-grandpa was in nappies.

We’re talking 145 years old! I mean, come on, how often do you get to walk on something that old without being in a museum?

When Mother Nature said “nope”

So here’s the deal. Back in 1877, Burra had this wooden bridge, minding its own business.

Then one day, boom! A massive flood comes along and washes it away like it was made of matchsticks. But did the locals throw in the towel? No way. They rose to the challenge and got to work on something way tougher.

19th-century engineering that still makes jaws drop

Fast forward to 1878, and these folks start building the Kooringa Bridge. Now, I’m no engineer, but even I could tell this thing is special. Picture two massive 18-metre spans made of wrought iron, all riveted together like some giant Meccano set. And get this – they sunk metal pillars right into the creek bed. In the 1870s! How cool is that?

More than just a way to stay dry

Standing on that bridge, I couldn’t help but think about all the stories it could tell if it could talk. It’s not just a way to cross the creek without getting your feet wet.

This bridge has been the lifeline between the east and west parts of Kooringa almost forever.

It’s seen Burra through thick and thin, from its mining heyday to now.

Walking across it felt like I was stepping into a time machine. The old iron arches, the creek bubbling away underneath, and knowing that generations of people had walked the same path – it gave me goosebumps, I’m not gonna lie.

So, if you ever find yourself in Burra, do yourself a favour and check out the Kooringa Bridge. It’s not just some old piece of metal – it’s a slice of living history. Trust me, it’ll make you look at bridges in a whole new way. Who knew a bridge could be so darn interesting, right?

Access to the Mawson Trail

Oh, and here’s a hot tip for all you cycling enthusiasts out there: The famous Mawson Trail and Heysen Trail actually passes right under this bridge! If you’re up for an epic ride, you can follow the trail from here all the way to Clare. It’s a cracker of a journey that’ll take you through some seriously gorgeous countryside. So, whether you’re a history buff or a bike nut, the Kooringa Bridge has got you covered. How’s that for a two-for-one deal?

More information:

Address: Kooringa Street, Burra (where the road crosses the Burra Creek)