Commencement of Works

The steel contract awarded to World Services and Construction Pty Ltd was the only one that presented significant challenges. Perhaps a warning of the trouble to come?

In 1966, George Wilmot & Company conducted extensive soil borings to assess the foundation conditions for the proposed crossing. Recognising the complexity of the project, Maunsell recommended bringing in the highly regarded English engineering firm Freeman, Fox and Partners as consultants.

By February 1967, the Lower Yarra Crossing Authority had published preliminary tender information, inviting prospective contractors to demonstrate their qualifications. Only those who met the strict criteria were permitted to submit final bids.

In October 1967, tenders were issued for three major contracts:

Contract F – Bridge Foundations
Contract C – Concrete Bridge Works
Contract S – Steel Bridge Works

John Holland (Constructions) Pty Ltd, a Melbourne-based company with extensive concrete experience, secured Contracts F and C. Meanwhile, Contract S – the steelwork – was awarded to World Services and Construction Pty Ltd. All contracts were officially signed in July 1968.

Construction began in April 1968, with hopes of completing the bridge by December 1970. Work under Contract F proceeded smoothly, reaching practical completion on 25 September 1969. Contract C also progressed well, despite some initial delays, and was on track for completion by March 1971.

However, Contract S soon faced problems. World Services and Construction, in collaboration with BHP, developed specifications for steel quality and testing, but delays plagued the project. Their first steel order wasn’t submitted to BHP until 16 August 1968, and by early 1970, concerns over performance led the Authority to issue a formal notice requiring WSC to show cause why penalties should not be enforced.

A settlement was reached: WSC would continue fabricating the steel box girders, but responsibility for their erection and completion was transferred to John Holland (Constructions). Holland would now oversee the entire assembly of the steel structure, including all concrete work and the roadway.

What had started as a promising collaboration was already showing signs of strain – a foreshadowing of the disaster that would soon unfold.

Commencement of Works

Voices of Remembrance.

The West Gate Bridge Memorial honours the sacrifice of 35 men who gave their lives, so that we could work in safer conditions. Their loss led to change that ensures we can go to work and return home safely to our families. Their memory will never be forgotten.

Working on the West Gate Bridge changed the lives of many, including mine. It was a wake-up call for all of us, seeing the dangers we faced and the need to fight for safety. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Being on the West Gate Bridge that day, so close to the collapse, was a moment I’ll never forget. The tragedy became the turning point for the entire construction industry.