The Noojee Trestle Bridge was often referred to simply as Number 7', a reference to it being one of seven bridges along the Nayook to Noojee section of the rail link between Warragul and Noojee.
The Noojee Trestle Bridge is 21 metres tall, 102 metres long and is comprised of 19 trestles. In its prime, it was nicknamed 'The Straight Bridge' due to the slight 604 metre curve at the eastern end, which was subtle in comparison to the other six bridges.
Despite all seven bridges being damaged or destroyed by bushfire at various times in 1926 and 1939, prompt restoration works quickly re-established the railway line each time.
At its peak in 1943, two daily train services ran between Noojee and Warragul, with a third train available if required. However, by 1948 train services decreased as road haulage became more economically viable.
A special passenger train ran on 3 March 1954 to take locals to Warragul for the Royal visit of the recently-crowned Queen Elizabeth II. Three weeks later, after one of the bridges was damaged by fire, the Nayook to Noojee section of the railway line was closed. The Warragul to Nayook section was subsequently closed in 1958.
The railway line and infrastructure between Nayook and Noojee was progressively dismantled between 1959 and 1961 but Number 7' remained, and now stands as a reminder of Noojee's vibrant history.
The bridge was purchased by Buln Buln Shire for one pound (approximately $2) in 1963. Very little is known about the management and use of the bridge during the 1960s and 1970s.
In 1982, an inspection was commissioned to assess the bridge for safety and to look at ways to 'improve the structural strength of the bridge'. The report identified that despite some decay due to vandalism and neglect, most of the structure was still very sound. It was also noted due to poor condition of the piles at ground level, the bridge was beginning to weaken under its own weight. Though it is unclear whether any of the report's recommendations were acted on, the bridge was closed to pedestrians a short time later.
In 1989, the (then) Department of Conservation Forests and Lands engaged engineers to report on the bridge's condition and recommend a repair and maintenance program to overcome its deteriorating condition. As a result, five piles underwent major foundation repairs in 1992, with the remaining 14 repaired in 1995. Construction of a handrail and replacement of the decking in 1996 meant the bridge was restored to its former glory and pedestrians were once again able to cross.
The site has steadily increased in popularity since the mid 1990s and is now estimated to be visited by over 10,000 people every year. It is currently managed by the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE).
In 2005, the Noojee Trestle Bridge hosted the first 'World's Longest Lunch in Gippsland as part of the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, which has now become an annual event. The bridge is also a popular destination for weddings.
The above-ground structure underwent further restoration works in 2007 and 2008, which included replacement of rusted bolts and rotting timber beams, repairs to hollow piles and treatment with timber preservative.
For further information regarding visiting the Noojee Trestle Bridge see Visit Gippsland Official website
Text sourced from Department of Sustainability and Environment
Main image: Roderick Eime
