It’s the bridge that faith – and $12 million – built.
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Unveiled on Saturday with much fanfare and a surprise visit from NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian, the Nan Tien Bridge links east with west, Berkeley with Unanderra, temple with tertiary institute.
The opening was marked by interfaith blessings and a first crossing by about 2000 dignitaries, dancers, government officials and the faithful. The Premier noted the pedestrian-only structure was entirely funded by the Buddhist community.
“Until recently, these great two institutions - the temple and the institute – were separated by the busy highway,” she said. “Now they are linked by this magnificent bridge. A bridge that connects both the spiritual and educational traditions of (international Chinese Buddhist monastic order) Fo Guang Shan.”
“It is a wonderful achievement, one that demonstrates persistence and passion.
“Today, as we celebrate this landmark development, we also deeply honour the role that Buddhism plays in our society. Guided by your commitment to say good words, do good deeds and think good thoughts you make a remarkable contribution to the harmony and success of NSW.”
The bridge’s reinforced concrete components were manufactured in Newcastle and trucked down and installed over four consecutive nights in February, while the M1 was shut down.
The bridged was funded as part of an $18 million project by Fo Guang Shan and the International Buddhist Association of Australia Co-operative. It stretches 200 metres over the motorway, from the Nan Tien Temple at Berkeley to the two-and-a-half year old Nan Tien Institute, in Unanderra.
Infrastructure services consultancy APP Corporation was responsible for its delivery. Kirk Bolte, the company’s project director, was there for Saturday’s opening.
“We are thrilled to see a thriving higher education and cultural facility, along with the new bridge providing a physical link back to the temple. This transformation not only benefits the local community, but we hope it encourages even more visitors to this major South Coast tourist attraction.”
Venerable Man Ko, Chief Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Australia and New Zealand said: “the Nan Tien Bridge forms an integral part of our vision for this precinct and symbolizes the physical and spiritual links between temple and institute”.