Bridge Inspection

Utterly Unnecessary

Design and construction methods were fully reconsidered by the West Gate Bridge Authority before work began again in 1972. The commission was careful to examine the roles each party played in the tragedy.

It concluded: “The disaster which occurred… and the tragedy of the 35 deaths was utterly unnecessary. That it should have been allowed to happen was inexcusable. There was no sudden onslaught of natural forces, no unexpected failure of new or untested material. The reasons for the collapse are to be found in the acts and omissions of those entrusted with building a bridge of a new and highly sophisticated design. The various companies who supplied the materials used were not shown to be in any way at fault, and must be held blameless. However, among those engaged upon the design and construction of the steel spans there were mistakes, miscalculations, errors of judgement, failure of communication and sheer inefficiency. In greater or less degree, the Authority itself, the designers, the contractors, even the labour engaged in the work, must all take some part of the blame.” (Report of Royal Commission into the failure of West Gate Bridge, VPRS 2591/P0, unit 14)