AS farmers across the state rejoiced over a welcome downpour last Thursday, history buffs were left to lament.
The heritage listed Angle Vale Bridge, which had stood in place for more than 140 years, couldn’t endure the rain and finally gave out.
Images quickly circulated via social media of the timber structure lying battered and bruised in the Gawler River.
Just days before, residents from both sides of the bridge told The Bunyip of the urgency needed to reinforce the structure for fear that it would soon give out.
The laminated timber deck arch was built in 1876 and was the last remaining bridge of its kind in Australia.
Once upon a time, the bridge was used to join the Angle Vale and Lewiston communities but was left to deteriorate after it was closed to vehicle traffic in 1966.
A restoration project took place in 1988, but despite its historical significance, continued to be left to rot to the point it was closed entirely to pedestrains.
Despite calls for action, nothing had been done. Just recently both Playford and Light Regional Councils came on board to jointly fund a $1.2m restoration of the bridge.
It proved too little, too late. Many might see it as just a depilated bridge, others might not have even known the bridge was there.
But that is 140 years of history that has now been lost.
Angle Vale is an area with rich history, but one that is also developing a new identity as it goes through a period of rapid expansion and growth.
Not only did the bridge physically connect the two communities, but it also connected the past to the present.
A symbol of what the suburb once was as its surroundings continue to change.
Staff from both councils have been on site in recent days to assess the damage, salvaging what remnants of the structure they can.
It might prove to be a tough ask without knowing the full cost or the challenges, but let’s hope that the bridge can eventually make a return.
