​

24 July 1923 

`` 

 

Yesterday, my vision turned into reality. The turning of the first sod ceremony took place at 

3pm on the north shore. I can still feel my elation as Mr Ball plunged the metal spade into the 

earth amidst tumultuous applause of the onlookers, while the band played the national anthem 

– everyone singing with great fervour and enthusiasm. I’m glad the intermittent rain showers 

did not diminish the occasion. When I arrived at the site, I could sense the excitement and 

optimism in the air. I saw people flocking to the spot at the corner of Miller and Blue streets, to 

secure a vantage point. It was a historic moment. Mayor Clarke opened the ceremony as I stood 

to his left, next to Sir George and Minister Ball. There was a loud applause. It was uplifting as I 

gazed down to the water level and beyond to the green slopes of Dawes point. It is certain to be the world’s heaviest structure and it will be a wonderful addition to one of the largest cities 

in the British Empire. 

 

After the ceremony, I attended a banquet at St Thomas Memorial Hall in McLaren Street. I was 

deeply honoured by Mr Holman’s kind words in his toast to me as the designer of the bridge. 

While I do not see myself in his words, my parents and my school teachers would be proud. I 

think back to my school days, gazing out the window at the blue sky, dreaming. In my response 

to Mr Holman’s toast and to the presentation of a replica silver model of the bridge, which will 

become a family heirloom, I thought it appropriate to briefly trace the history of the long 

journey and many people it took to get to this point. 

 

On Monday morning, men will be at work at the site where the sod was turned preparing for 

the construction of the railway approach to Bay road station. As the day draws to a close, 

Mayor Clarke’s words still echo in my mind – this is a “prelude to one of the greatest events 

about to take place in modern history – the construction of the Sydney Harbour Bridge”. I cut 

out this picture from today’s Sydney Morning Herald.