Boys on the Parken Pregan Lagoon Bridge at North Wagga in the 1950s. Photo: CSURA.
This week the Museum of the Riverina takes us back to the old Parken Pregan Lagoon Bridge at North Wagga where we see two boys on their bikes stopping to enjoy the view.
The bridge was demolished in 1959 due to severe flood damage.
The bridge had weathered multiple floods over the years – 16 major floods in fact through the 1950s – with the most notable occurring in 1956 when half the bridge and road disappeared under the floodwater.
The municipal engineer reported that the bridge decking was worn out.
Under heavy traffic the asphalt was breaking through and in order to save the council from possible claims, a notice restricting the weight of loads was erected.
Pile driver operator Dudley Cheney and many others had worked tirelessly on its construction against the backdrop of North Wagga’s evolving skyline.
The bridge served as a vital link for the North Wagga community’s access into Wagga’s CBD. Despite facing maintenance issues, it stood as a testament to the regional centre’s growth and the community’s perseverance through many floods and challenges.
There was some controversy during the second bridge build on the northern side of the existing structure as North Wagga residents raised concerns over its height. They predicted it would be too low to endure subsequent washaways in floods.
Pine trees were planted beside the road so those driving carts and drays could follow the higher ground in flood times. The existing Parken Pregan Bridge was then built on the original line where the old wooden bridge stood.
In the background of the photo is the North Wagga Shell Service Station on the corner of Hampden Ave and Wall St which is still standing.
Today, we look back at these historical photos from CSU Regional Archives capturing moments of change and resilience in North Wagga’s history.
What are your memories of Parken Pregan Bridge and do you recognise the boys in the pic?
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