Launceston Gorge’s Alexandra Suspension Bridge reopens after restoration works

Considered the ‘soul of our city’ — the loved iconic suspension bridge has reopened after being off limits to visitors since January. Here’s what’s changed.

Mayor Matthew Garwood at the re-opened Alexandra Suspension Bridge at Launceston's Cataract Gorge. Picture: Supplied/City of Launceston council

Cataract Gorge’s iconic Alexandra Suspension Bridge — renowned for Instagram snaps — has been restored to its former glory after extensive works.

Visitor access to the Launceston drawcard reopened on Monday after being off limits since January.

The restoration included 346 newly fabricated steel components, 44 new chain wire mesh side panels, approximately 1240 bolts and 120m of new spotted gum timber handrail.

The existing celery top pine deck boards were also reinstalled, with about 20 replaced.

While other mechanisms on the bridge were stripped, repainted or treated and regreased.

This comes after the structure was repainted and the bridge’s two A-frame towers and anchor bolts were refurbished five years ago.

Launceston mayor Matthew Garwood said the project balanced preserving the city’s heritage and ensuring the bridge remained safe.

“The Alexandra Suspension Bridge isn’t just an old bridge — it’s part of the soul of our city,” Mayor Garwood said.

“It’s been connecting people at the Gorge for more than 120 years, and this restoration is about making sure it can keep doing that for the next 120.

“We’re preserving something truly special here, with real care and respect for its heritage — so locals and visitors can keep enjoying it for generations to come.”

Alexandra suspension bridge over Cataract Gorge in Launceston, Tasmania. Picture: Getty

The 60m suspension bridge was first opened in 1904 and was funded by the government and public subscriptions.

A flood in 1929 destroyed the structure, which was later rebuilt.

City of Launceston council set aside $1.4m for the Alexandra Suspension Bridge in its latest capital works budget.

Originally published as Launceston Gorge’s Alexandra Suspension Bridge reopens after restoration works