Exploring Bridges
Hello, little engineers!
This week, we’re diving into the wonderful world of bridges—those incredible structures that help us cross rivers, roads, and even oceans. Have you ever wondered how bridges hold up all those cars, bikes, and people?
Let’s learn about bridges then locally explore some!
What Makes a Bridge Strong?
Bridges may look like magic, but they stay up because of science and engineering! Here are three main types:
• Beam Bridges – The simplest kind, like a big, strong plank stretching across. Think of a log over a stream!
• Arch Bridges – These have a curved shape underneath that helps hold the weight. Ever made a rainbow with blocks? That’s an arch bridge in action!
• Suspension Bridges – These use strong cables to hold everything up. Think of a swinging vine bridge in the jungle!
Bridges of The Shire: Fun Facts!
Our community has two very important bridges:
Captain Cook Bridge
• This bridge connects Taren Point and Sans Souci.
• It was named after Captain James Cook, the explorer!
• It’s a box girder bridge, which means it’s super strong and can hold lots of cars.
Tom Ugly’s Bridge
• This is the oldest road bridge across the Georges River!
• It was named after a local fisherman called Tom Huxley, but people misheard and called him “Tom Ugly!”
• It was built in 1929 and still carries lots of cars today!
Spotlight on one of our favourite local cafes:
The Ugly Cook
Hmmm where did this cafe get its funny name? Perhaps a map could help... WOW! Located in Sylvania Waters, it sits directly between The Tom Ugly and Captain Cook bridges! This cafe not only has incredible food, but could do a masterclass on muffins and the coffee is unbeatable!
Ready to Explore?
Here are some hands-on bridge activities!
Build a Paper Bridge!
• Use just a piece of paper and two books as supports.
• Place small objects (like coins or toy cars) on top. Does it hold up?
• Now, fold or roll the paper to make it stronger—what happens?
LEGO or Block Bridge Challenge!
• Build a bridge with LEGO or blocks.
• Try making a beam bridge, an arch bridge, or a suspension bridge with string!
Nature Bridge Walk!
• Take a walk across a real bridge and feel how strong it is.
• Look for boats, fish, and how the bridge connects two places.
Here are 2 of our favourite local Bridge Walks to check out…
Woronora Bridge Walk offers stunning views of the Woronora River and is just a hop, skip and a jump away from the Burnum Burnum Santuary- so fun!
Taren Point to Woolooware Bay is a lovely stroll for crossing bridges over fascinating mangroves on the way to Shire’s newest playground, Livvi’s Place at Bay Central.
Bridges are amazing examples of engineering, teamwork, and creativity! Have fun exploring, and let’s keep building our curiosity!