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The magnificent view from Sydney Harbor Bridge

A reflection on the Sydney Harbor Bridge climb from a student’s perspective. Click here for other points of view on the climb from TGS student bloggers.

6 million hand driven rivets. That’s all that hold together the Sydney Harbor Bridge.

From 1928 to 1932, over 52,000 tons of steel were use to create the crown jewel of Sydney. As we trudged over the great arches, strapped to the steel wiring, I suddenly realized what power people have over the world around us. For over a hundred years the people of Sydney wanted a bridge across their harbor. For such a small patch of water, it could take over eight hours, or even a couple days to get from one side of the river to another. But it took over four million pounds and fourteen years of planning to get the bridge into construction stages.

We left our home and began the long 5km hike to the Taronga Zoo Wharf through thick leafy trees and along small wooden walkways. The heat bore down on our backs as we quickly ambled from bay to bay, watching as the central city get closer to us, and our excitement grew. We sat and relaxed on the short ferry ride across the harbor and towards the looming bridge. We quickly strode through the waterfront, dodging tourists and vendors, preparing and performing for the Sydney Festival.

Climbing the Arch

After being let into the locker/changing rooms we all changed into jumpsuits, and were “accessorized” with radios, handkerchiefs and hats, we began the fourteen hundred step climb to the highest arch. Slowly, but surely, we ascended the majestic archway, following our well-informed leader Owen. At the summit of the bridge, the view over Sydney was magnificent, a panorama of the Opera House and The Rock, spanning to Luna Park and Bondi Beach. We marveled at its beauty, watching as the boats glimmered across the deep blue water beneath us. I couldn’t comprehend how lucky we were, to get the opportunity to climb the bridge, and see Sydney from an angle that most people don’t get to see.

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Ready to embark on the educational journey of a lifetime?

A passion for travel. A strong academic record. And the desire to improve the world as you experience it. If this sounds like you, you just might be our ideal candidate! Start your application with a five-minute inquiry form - you never know where you might end up.

It all starts here.

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