Sale Swing Bridge

Constructed between 1880 and 1883 the Sale Swing Bridge is located in Longford, Victoria, Australia (or 5km south of Sale). Not only does it hold the distinction of being the first movable bridge built in Victoria but is the oldest surviving swing bridge in Australia.

Design and Construction of the Sale Swing Bridge

Designed by the Australian architect and civil engineer John Grainger, the bridge was built to facilitate river traffic to and from the Port of Sale. The structure spans the junction of the Thomson and Latrobe Rivers, featuring a central swing span of 45.6 meters, allowing it to rotate 90 degrees to permit vessel passage. The bridge’s construction utilized wrought iron trusses and cast-iron piers. Although originally designed to be operated by a two-person hand cranking system, it is now opened using a trailer-mounted hydraulic power unit.

Today, the bridge remains operational and is a popular heritage attraction. It opens to allow passage for river traffic at scheduled times: every Saturday and Sunday between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM, and on the second Wednesday of each month from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM (as of March 2025). Visiting at these times lets you witness the bridge in operation.

Getting There

We drove to the bridge, which is just south of Sale. There is plenty of parking available next to the bridge along with a picnic area on the far side. Interpretive signs detail the bridge’s construction, renovation and importance to the area. Also located here is a metal sculpture of a traditional aboriginal bark canoe.

We walked over the bridge where the views along the river are beautiful, especially in the morning when we visited. An interesting place to visit, particularly if you like engineering and architecture.