Tasman Bridge lit in dark blue, closed to traffic for three minutes in remembrance of 1975 disaster

Hobart paused to mark the 50th anniversary of the Tasman Bridge disaster on Sunday night, with moving scenes playing out on the River Derwent.

Tasman Bridge memorial ring structure situated at the Rosny Esplanade, Montagu Bay Reserve. Picture: Caroline Tan

The Tasman Bridge was lit in dark blue and closed for three minutes on Sunday night as Hobart remembered the disaster that tragically claimed twelve lives fifty years ago.

On January 5, 1975, the bulk ore carrier SS Lake Illawarra struck pylon 19 of the bridge, causing a partial collapse.

At 9.27pm on Sunday, reflecting the time that disaster struck, the Tasman Bridge was closed to traffic for about 180 seconds, while the feature lighting was dimmed to dark blue between piers 17 and 19 until 9.57pm, representing the area of impact.

Tasman Bridge remembrance for 50th anniversary of 1975 disaster. Picture: Caroline Tan

Tasman Bridge remembrance for 50th anniversary of 1975 disaster. Picture: Caroline Tan

In a touching moment of solemn reflection, the flagship of the Motor Yacht Club of Tasmania, the ML Egeria, sailed under the bridge as the strains of Amazing Grace and Waltzing Matilda drifted across the River Derwent from the historic vessel.

Members of the public, meanwhile, lined the Eastern Shore to observe the proceedings from afar and pay their respects.

Originally published as Tasman Bridge lit in dark blue, closed to traffic for three minutes in remembrance of 1975 disaster