Alexandra Suspension Bridge Refurbishment

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The City of Launceston will be delivering a significant refurbishment of the Alexandra Suspension Bridge's structural components in 2025. 

The Alexandra Suspension Bridge is scheduled to close from Tuesday 28 January 2025 until approximately May 2025. This closure period was chosen to avoid the wetter months of the year. This decision prioritises worker safety, minimises the risk of flooding events during construction and preserves part of the peak season for public access.

These renewal works include:

  • Replacement of steel framing
  • Replacement of timber handrail and side mesh panels
  • Painting of top brackets
  • Re-installation of existing timber deck boards.

The refurbished bridge will replicate the current bridge, including its colour scheme.

Timing of works is subject to weather. Unforeseen events may alter programming.

Thank you for your support and understanding as we work to renew this much loved community asset, ensuring its use for generations to come.

Bridge Closure Map

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Cataract Gorge Trails

First Basin Trail

This trail will enable you to discover the First Basin with the chairlift overhead, taking in views of the river, basin lawns, gardens and swimming pool. The loop will be unavailable due to the closure of the bridge.

Distance: 900m loop
Grade: Easy - Flat or gentle incline

Duck Reach Trail

Take the Duck Reach Trail from the First Basin to the historic Duck Reach Power Station. This trail passes the Sentinel Lookout, a place to enjoy the tranquillity of the South Esk River and serenity of the Reserve.

Distance: 2km one way
Grade: Moderate - Sloping incline

Zig Zag Track

A historic trail that links the Kings Bridge to the First Basin, with a series of zig–zags that climb high above the Cataract Gorge Reserve. Popular with runners, this trail has been described as ‘testing the lungs of travellers’, but the views from the track are well worth the effort.

Distance: 1km one way
Grade: Hard - Steep and challenging

Cataract Walk

Linking Kings Bridge to the beautiful Victorian gardens of the historically significant Cataract Gorge Cliff Grounds, this walk runs along the cliff face providing superb views of the dolerite columns and South Esk River.

Distance: 1km one way
Grade: Easy - Flat or gentle incline

Reedy Gully Track & Snake Gully Track

For a greater challenge on your return journey from the Duck Reach Trail, test your hiking skills by heading up the hill on the stairs at the Duck Reach Power Station. The stairs lead to the Reedy Gully and Snake Gully Tracks which link to the Trevallyn Nature Reserve tracks.

Distance: 2km one way
Grade: Hard - Steep and challenging

Businesses

Gorge Scenic Chairlift

Jump onboard the famous Gorge Scenic Chairlift and view the Cataract Gorge from above. Visit www.gorgechairlift.com.au for more information.

Basin Cafe

Enjoy the view over breakfast, morning tea or lunch. Visit www.thebasincafe.com.au to view their menu and hours.

The Gorge Restaurant

Perched amongst the Gorge cliff grounds, take in the natural surroundings while enjoying lunch or high tea. Visit www.thegorgerestaurant.com.au to see what's on offer. 

Location

Cataract Gorge, West Launceston 7250  View Map

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