Rosehill: Parramatta light rail bridge at James Ruse Drive named Bidgee Bidgee
A Parramatta light rail bridge has been named after a ‘city-shaping’ Aboriginal elder and emerged as the ‘standout’ choice from 500 entrants.
Parramatta
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The Parramatta light rail bridge stretching across James Ruse Drive at Rosehill has been named after a local Aboriginal leader, Bidgee Bidgee, as a nod to his life, work and contributions.
Transport Minister David Elliott said recognising Bidgee Bidgee as the namesake for the bridge ensured significant contributions made by Aboriginal people to the area would be marked in history.
“For 20 years, Bidgee Bidgee led the Burramattagal clan of the Darug people, bringing all people together to help shape the region’s history,” Mr Elliott said.
“He was a city-shaping elder who was engaged as a tracker by Governor Macquarie and rewarded by being appointed the Chief of the Kissing Point tribe.”
A bridge-naming consultation panel assessed more than 500 community suggestions in line with naming guidelines and conventions.
Aboriginal Affairs Minister Benjamin Franklin said Bidgee Bidgee was selected following close engagement with the Darug Custodian Aboriginal Corporation.
“Several short-listed names celebrated local culture and history, however Bidgee Bidgee was the standout choice that had unanimous support from all parties highlighting its connection to country,” Mr Franklin said.
The bridge will link commuters to the Tramway Ave light rail stop on the western side of James Ruse Drive, and connect to the Camellia to Carlingford corridor, including the 5km walking and bike-riding path.
After the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the 1425-tonne steel and concrete Bidgee Bidgee will be the state’s longest steel arch crossing, and the largest of the six spans in the 12km light rail network connecting Westmead to Carlingford.
An official naming ceremony for the bridge will be held this year.
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