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25th Anniversary of the Tasman Bridge DisasterPrint Page 
The plaque commemorates the 25th anniversary of the Tasman Bridge disaster and is in memory of those who died.
The Tasman Bridge was open to traffic in August 1964. It was a four-lane, high level concrete bridge constructed with a central navigation span for shipping. Prior to 1964, a floating bridge spanned the Derwent.
On Sunday, 5 January 1975 at 9.27 p.m. the bulk carrier Lake Illawarra collided with the Tasman Bridge. Two piers collapsed along with 127 metres of bridge decking. Four cars ran over the gap into the Derwent River, five occupants died while several others managed to escape from two vehicles which teetered on the edge of the gap. Seven crewmen from the Lake Illawarra also lost their lives. The impact of the bridge collapse was quickly felt as Hobart was suddenly cut in two. Eastern shore residents were severely compromised, transport facilities were tested and to compound the issue further, most hospitals, schools, businesses and government offices were located on the western shore.
Location
| Address: | Rosny Bay Esplanade, Unnamed Road, Base of main pier, Tasman Bridge Eastern bank, Montagu Bay, 7018 |
|---|---|
| State: | TAS |
| Area: | AUS |
| GPS Coordinates: | Lat: -42.864047 Long: 147.350192 Note: GPS Coordinates are approximate. |
Details
| Monument Type: | Plaque |
|---|---|
| Monument Theme: | Disaster |
| Sub-Theme: | Land Transport |
| Actual Event Start Date: | 05-January-1975 |
| Actual Event End Date: | 05-January-1975 |
Dedication
| Actual Monument Dedication Date: | Wednesday 5th January, 2000 |
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TASMAN BRIDGE
In memory of those who died
In recognition of those who were affected
In acknowledgement of those who assisted
The Tasmanian Community remembers the
Tasman Bridge disaster of 5th January 1975.
This plaque was unveiled on the
25th Anniversary of the tragedy
by
His Excellency The Honourable
Sir Guy Green AC KBE
Governor of Tasmania
