by Janelle (
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I like to participate in life rather than be a spectator. Music, dancing, theatre, travelling, food, cycling and walking are some of my passions. Writing is an enjoyable pastime that allows me to share my experiences.
A missing link of Bathers Way was opened on Anzac Day. The construction of the cliff top walk and bridge was funded by BHP-Billiton and Newcastle Council. It celebrates a centenary of steel production in Newcastle as well as commemorating the centenary of the Gallipoli landing.
We were among the thousands to walk on the Anzac Memorial Bridge on the day it opened to the public, blue skies and sunshine were a perfect complement to the steel structure that spans time and place.
The dedication plaque on the bridge
An aerial view of the Anzac memorial walk image Gavin Morris NBN TV
The walkers were a mixed bunch, young and old, couples, families, military personnel and fitness fiends. Many wore poppies or rosemary and there was an atmosphere of reverence amongst the crowd which I attributed to the solemnity of the day coupled with the beauty of the surroundings. Progress was slow as people stopped to take in the views, read the informative signs or search the engravings for familiar names.
Sculptures on the bridge
We had been observing the construction of the bridge during our walks along Bathers Way to Merewether Beach and were not disappointed with the finished product.To see a video on the construction of the bridge go to
www.hdc.nsw.gov.au/news/anzac-memorial-walk-opens
Close up of the reliefs
The cliff top walkway provides stunning views of the coast to the south and across Newcastle toward the north. Whale watching is always a popular activity in this part of Newcastle and the bridge will surely enhance the experience.
South to Merewether and beyond
People with mobility issues are able to access the bridge as the walkway is even and level from the car park at Strzelecki lookout to the trig station. The stairs at the southern end of the bridge would provide a challenge though.
