Stockton Bridge Newcastle Australia
Spanning the North Channel of the Hunter River, the Stockton Bridge connects the Tomaree and Tillegerry Peninsulas with Newcastle, Australia. Replacing an earlier vehicle ferry from Stockton to Newcastle (the passenger ferry still runs), it has significantly improved vehicle flow. When opened in 1971, it was the longest bridge (at 1,024m) to have been built by the Department of Main Roads and the second longest bridge in New South Wales after the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
We have driven over the bridge many times and always assumed the central barricades were to separate traffic and prevent cars crossing into oncoming lanes. Having wondered how pedestrians crossed, because there are no footpaths on the outside edge, we did some research. It turns out that the bridge design incorporates a central footpath which you access from underneath the bridge.
Getting There
To have a look for ourselves, we parked near the boat ramp and walked across. Located where the bridge meets the ground, the stairs are easy to find. From here it’s a short climb to the bridge surface. While walking across, you are only separated from the traffic by a metal barricade. Although this is sturdy, it can feel unsafe at times as the cars and trucks drive past.
It was a cold clear morning when we walked across, so the views back over Stockton and Newcastle were beautiful. However, as you are in the centre of the bridge taking good photos is difficult because the bridge gets in the way.
Returning to our car, we found some artwork on the concrete uprights near the road. Sponsored by the NSW Government and local Rotary Club, they were a nice colourful surprise.
Our photos are available for purchase on
To see what else there is to do in New South Wales, please see some of our other stories.
Loved the bird street art!
It’s great how artists are using their talents to brighten up dull places.
Interesting post! I love the wonderful bird art on the piers.
Isn’t it great that the council is helping fund these little art projects? It brightens up a blank concrete space.
This an amazing bird art!
Pleased that you liked it. It was an unexpected find after walking over the bridge.
We’ve crossed this bridge many times it’s good to know a little more about it.
Pleased that you liked it. Thanks for reading. Shaun
Interesting to see that the pedestrian walkway is in the middle of the bridge. And what a nice surprise to see street artwork – sometimes it pays to get out and walk around, right?
We’re often amazed what you can find by just walking. Things that aren’t advertised or forgotten. Makes the day more interesting