The design for Pier 5 of the new Batemans Bay Bridge draws inspiration from key historical moments in the development of the area throughout the 1800’s and 1900’s. The design incorporates elements of the natural bushland and waterways from the Batemans Bay area which were important to the development of the area and a key reason the settlers thrived.

The most significant features of the area that stood out to the artist when researching the project was the old vertical lift truss bridge that spanned the Clyde River from 1956 to 2021. The artist wanted to give a nod to the old bridge and incorporate it into the design of the mural on the new bridge. The shape and structure of the old bridge is easily recognisable to locals and is an icon of recent history.

Looking back further in time, another iconic structure that sat in the location of the new bridge was Perry’s Timber Mill which was built in 1901 and operated for over 80 years. The timber mill changed many times over the years but the development of each of the buildings can be seen in photographs and illustrations on display at the Batemans Bay Heritage Museum.

Also featured in the artwork is TSS Wallamba, one of the iconic ships that frequented the river carrying timber.

All of these features centred around the Clyde River and brought jobs and prosperity to the area. They also relied and interacted with the natural surroundings and hold significance in the memory of locals.

This artwork was curated by Chulo Creative

Designed and painted by artist Helen Proctor

With the help of Transport for NSW, Eurobodalla Shire Council, Clyde River and Batemans Bay Historical Society and local Walbunja Elders.