Como Bridge Walk

One of the more unusual walking tracks in Sydney is the Como Bridge in Sydney’s south.



Accessed from Oatley to the north and Como to the south, the Como Bridge is as much an important Australian historical piece as it is a leisurely walkway.

Built in 1885, this bridge was once used as the rail link across the Georges River, and is the longest single-track lattice girder bridge in New South Wales.



Being a single-track, trains had to be timed so both southbound and northbound trains could use it. As the demand grew for more rail services to the Sutherland Shire and South Coast, a bigger dual track concrete bridge was built alongside the old bridge in 1972. The old bridge was opened as a walkway and cycleway in 1985.



The bridge also has a huge pipeline, which serves as part of the Woronora to Penshurst Water Supply Pipeline.



For walkers, the Como Bridge is a pleasant stroll that’s not too demanding. It’s about 1.5 kilometres long. The surface is sealed all the way, and if you are heading south, you can enjoy some of Como’s offerings such as the Como Hotel (once owned by rugby league legend Arthur Beetson) and the Como Marina where you can buy gifts or relax in the café; or head to the picnic spot at Como Pleasure Grounds. There are also markets at Como once a month.





The walk itself enjoys some magnificent views to the east along the Georges River. But forget about views to the west – everything is obscured by the newer train bridge.

Cyclists use the bridge as a link to a long ride out to the Royal National Park or to the South Coast. But cyclists should be aware that the permissible speed is just 5km per hour, which means you’ll be travelling slower than many walkers.



The bridge tends to be neglected by the authorities that should be maintaining it. Graffiti has always been a big problem and an eyesore on the bridge. Even worse, there are parts where the fencing has bent away from the footpath, meaning a young child or dog could easily get the leg caught.



To access the Como Bridge walkway from the north, head to the end of Oatley Parade, which is a about a five minute walk from Oatley Train Station. From the south, head to Cremona Road or Como Parade, about five minutes from Como Station.

Rating: 8/10

Where: Access from Oatley or Como in Sydney's south.
Why: Walk on an historic bridge
Cost: Free
When: Any time, but stick to daylight hours

Good for kids: Yes

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