I have heard of one of the oldest local rockclimbing clubs (name withheld) whose initiation process is to climb the bridge (from the foundations to the apex). Today, Nicey, Mel Rose, Mons and I climbed the Story Bridge at dawn. We climbed it legally with a Story Bridge climb company.

We arrived at the company HQ at 5am, where we were greeted by a very enthusiastic staff member. Later we were debriefed and suited up, a process that involves checking your blood alcohol limit, signing disclaimers, emptying pockets and all loose items (including jewellery, watches and cameras). The jump suits are then fitted with a harness and various safety attachments. A quick simulation on their demo bridge gantry and then we were marched off towards the bridge foundations.

A spiral staircase takes us up to road level and then a steep ascent to the apex, with a couple of rest stops to also take in the views.

At the top, the sun was still under the horizon, but the twilight view was memorable. Our guide pointed out the surrounding landmarks. I noted she mistakenly misidentified a couple of mountains. Bridge people, for future reference: towards the South on the horizon from left to right are these mountains: Mt Lindesay, Mt Barney (twin peaked), Mt May, Mt Maroon, then in the middle ground Flinders Peak. To the north from left to right: Mt Beerwah, Mt Ngungun and the mountain that is on its own is Mt Tibrogargan.

After the spiel, we proceeded down to the middle of the bridge where the first of two photo opportunities are taken by your guide. Moving across the other side and back up the bridge, the second photo is taken. This is where Mons and Mel Rose posed as a couple of Charlie’s Angels.

Whatever, I resorted to scanning in the pics at hi-res and sending the bridge people’s marketing a negative feedback on their post-sales process. Despite this minor annoyance, the actual bridge climb was worth it.

The next bridge adventure will be the real initiation thing