Description
Date: Saturday, 17 October 2026
Time: 2pm – 3pm
Where: Level 3, Rockdale Library, 444 Princes Highway, Rockdale
Cost: Free
When the Hawkesbury River Railway Bridge opened in 1889, Sir Henry Parkes described it as a vital step towards Australian Federation. Built by American engineers, the bridge was a landmark engineering achievement. Many of the engineers took photographs of the construction home with them, where they remained largely unseen until Bill Phippen rediscovered them in the Library of Congress, Washington DC, in 2014.
Drawing on these rare images and his extensive research, Bill will share the story of the bridge, the people who built it, and its role in connecting a nation.
Presenter: Bill Phippen is an engineer, historian, heritage advocate, and volunteer guide at the Australian National Maritime Museum.
Afterward, enjoy afternoon tea with a delightful selection of cakes, biscuits, and slices, including gluten-free choices.
Entry is free ($5 donation gratefully accepted)
All welcome!
