ABORIGINAL elder Harry Nannup blessed the ground where work will soon begin on the new Mandurah Bridge.
The 62-year-old traffic bridge will be replaced by the end of 2017 with the new bridge addressing safety and congestion issues by providing two lanes of traffic in both directions.
On Monday afternoon Mr Nannup and his nephew, community leader George Walley used branches and leaves from local Tuart trees to perform a traditional smoking ceremony on the western foreshore.
Mr Walley said he wanted to bless the ground that would soon be a working place.
“We understand why the bridge needs to be pulled down but it was still a very sad day,” he said.
“It’s still a very significant place that we love.”
Being born in Pinjarra, Mr Walley remembers walking over the bridge as a child.
“I guess everyone has fond memories,” he said.
“It holds great historical value for all people.”
A crowd including Transport Minister Dean Nalder gathered for the ceremony.
After, Mr Nalder who was in Mandurah as part of the regional cabinet visit unveiled a sign which marked the start of construction works for the $51.8 million project.
Mr Nannup said the regional cabinet visit was a very busy and moving day for him.
“I enjoyed the day and feel it went pretty well,” he said.
Mr Walley said the visit was a big success for the state government and allowed community leaders to have access to the ministers.
