Story Bridge Verified listing

The Story Bridge is a heritage-listed steel cantilever bridge that spans the Brisbane River, connecting Fortitude Valley to Kangaroo Point. Designed by renowned engineer John Bradfield and constructed between 1935 and 1940, the bridge stands as Australia's longest cantilever bridge at 777 metres in length and 74 metres in height. It was originally a major infrastructure project launched during the Great Depression, aimed at providing employment and supporting economic recovery in Queensland. Though once a toll bridge, it has long since become a free and vital part of Brisbane's road network.

For visitors, one of the best ways to experience the bridge is from the vibrant Howard Smith Wharves precinct beneath it, where riverside restaurants and walkways offer picturesque views. Since 2005, the Story Bridge Adventure Climb has allowed tourists to ascend the structure on a fully guided, 1.5-hour tour. Climbers are secured with safety gear and led to the summit platform, roughly 80 metres above the river, with spectacular panoramic views of the Brisbane skyline, the Glass House Mountains, Moreton Bay, and beyond. Climb experiences range from daytime to twilight and dawn sessions, and start at approximately A$150 per person. The minimum age to participate is six years.

As of early 2025, pedestrian and cycle access across the bridge has been restricted due to ongoing structural concerns including corrosion and concrete deterioration. A large-scale restoration project valued at around A$1 billion is currently underway, with full completion expected by 2027. Despite these works, the bridge remains operational for vehicles, and the adventure climb continues as a major tourist draw. Story Bridge remains a must-see for its historical significance, architectural engineering, and unforgettable views of Brisbane.