- WA bridge workers first to walk the bridge
- Final testing starts ahead of opening to the public
- Open to the public before AFL Round 17 game on 15 July
Local workers involved in the construction of Western Australian-made Matagarup Bridge were the first to walk across today, signalling the start of final testing and checks.
Over the past week, 740 cubic metres of concrete was poured to complete the bridge deck.
A controlled series of tests, referred to as 'tuning' or 'dynamic testing', will begin on Friday, enabling technicians to make final adjustments and confirm the amount of expected movement from the cable stay suspension bridge.
This testing is not about safety, but rather assessing the user experience and sense of comfort against the design.
The work is being undertaken by Curtin University's Centre for Infrastructure Monitoring and Protection and is based on European standards as agreed with the bridge designers.
The testing program is expected to be finished next week, with the public able to access the bridge ahead of the Round 17 Dockers game at Optus Stadium on July 15.
Full details of the transport changes on event days once the bridge is open will be available at transperth.wa.gov.au - fans are encouraged to check details when planning their journeys.
Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan:
"The start of the testing phase is another important milestone in the Matagarup Bridge project.
"More than 200 WA jobs were created by our decision to return the steel works to local Western Australian fabricators and all those involved have worked hard to get us to this point."
Comments attributed to Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"WA workers should be congratulated on their hard work, expertise and determination to complete this project.
"Our focus has always been on safety compliance and build perfection, rather than rushing to get the bridge open, and the community will have this WA-made bridge to enjoy year-round.
"This project has been one of the most technically difficult constructions ever undertaken in WA and the local workforce has embraced the challenge and done an outstanding job.
"To all the workers, those in fabrication and the many that worked on site, I congratulate and thank them for all of their efforts."
Premier's office: 6552 5000
Transport Minister's office: 6552 5500
