Nundah Bypass Tunnel renamed after George Bridges (finally)

After having been turned down by the Qld Govt in 2001, the Nundah & District Historical Society were finally successful in 2009 in their efforts to get the Nundah Bypass Tunnel renamed after local pioneer George Bridge.

From http://statements.cabinet.qld.gov.au/MMS/StatementDisplaySingle.aspx?id=67494

Minister for Main Roads
The Honourable Craig Wallace

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Local pioneer honoured in Q150 celebrations

Main Roads Minister Craig Wallace today announced the Nundah Tunnel will be officially named ‘George Bridges Tunnel’ as part of Queensland’s 150th birthday celebrations.

“This name is chosen in honour of European pioneer George Bridges who is regarded by many as the founder of Nundah as a business centre,” Mr Wallace said.

“In 1855 Mr Bridges selected land on the eastern side of the then Brisbane to Sandgate Road. Mr Bridges farmed and cleared the land to build a hotel on it.

“Mr Bridges also re-routed Sandgate Road across his land, where traders could set up their businesses – transforming Nundah from a farming district to a business centre.

“The legacy of Mr Bridges can still be seen today, as the Nundah Tunnel now bypasses what was once his land.”

Mr Wallace said naming the Nundah Tunnel after George Bridges recognised an important part of local history and helped to play an important part in celebrating Queensland’s 150th birthday.

More than 190 entries were received to help name bridges and other structures throughout the greater Brisbane area as part of the state’s Q150 celebrations.

“Having so many entries certainly made the decision very difficult in choosing the appropriate name for the tunnel,” Mr Wallace said.

“We have chosen a name we believe reflects the community input, the local history and recognises an important local identity.

“I would like to congratulate the Nundah and District Historical Society who suggested the new name for the Nundah Tunnel. I also thank all those who submitted their suggestions to name the tunnel.

“This is what the Q150 bridge naming celebrations are all about – Queenslanders sharing their pride in the things that make our state unique and having the opportunity for them to be recognised in significant road structures.”

The Q150 bridge naming project is a state-wide initiative that will name more than 50 bridges across Queensland.

Submissions for bridge names closed across the state on 31 May 2009, following an enthusiastic response from the public.

The bridge names submitted for consideration were reviewed by a panel of community members in each region, chaired by Member for Sandgate Vicky Darling in the metropolitan region, and names were shortlisted for final consideration by the Minister.