Batman Bridge

Batman Bridge is a cable-stayed road bridge spanning the Tamar River in northern Tasmania, connecting Sidmouth in the West Tamar municipality with Hillwood on the eastern bank. Opened in 1968 as Australia's first cable-stayed bridge, it features a distinctive 91-metre A-frame steel tower and a 206-metre main span. The bridge carries the Batman Highway (B73) and is recognised for its engineering heritage and scenic river valley setting.

Visitors can expect a major road bridge crossing the Tamar River with a prominent steel A-frame tower and cable-stayed span. The bridge is viewed from roadside reserves and viewing areas on both the Sidmouth (western) and Hillwood (eastern) banks, offering panoramic views of the river, forested hills and Tamar Valley. There is no visitor centre on the bridge itself; the experience is primarily sightseeing, photography and scenic driving, with picnic and parking areas at the adjacent reserves.

Opened on 18 May 1968, Batman Bridge was the first cable-stayed bridge built in Australia. Designed by engineering firm GHD and constructed by Lewis Construction, it features a 432-metre total length with a 206-metre main span supported by a 91-metre A-frame tower. Named after John Batman, the Launceston-born founder of Melbourne, the bridge significantly improved connectivity across the Tamar River and is listed for its engineering heritage significance.

The bridge is a landmark of the Tamar Valley and a recognised example of 1960s Australian engineering innovation. Named after John Batman, it reflects regional identity and is a well-known scenic and photographic icon for visitors to northern Tasmania.