Thousands of motorists pass by it every day but never glance at it unless it's pink? I've driven many times over the west gate bridge on my way into the city from the western suburbs, but I've never been interested in what's around it. It wasn't until recently that I searched for things to do around. The beautiful pink lake caught my attention and it's right here in Melbourne, I think I heard about it long ago when I yet came to Australia but I had no idea it's so close...!! If you type "salt lake in Melbourne" on Google, you'll be overwhelmed with breathtaking images of the pinky stunning lake and could resist to come for photograph !!
I was so excited and decided to drive to Westgate park. Even though I knew beforehand that the lake may not be as pink as it appears in photographs due to weather conditions or other reasons, there was still a part of me that hoped to see its vibrant hue in all its glory. π
When I arrived I saw a notice on the board: "Westgate park salt water lake is no longer pink". It lost its pink color in mid-May 2019". They can't predict if or when the pink color will return. No doubt, if the lake was still pink, people would surely flock from far and wide to see it.
Well, let's hope β€οΈ
No pink no problem. We had a nice walk around the lake and learned about the Westgate Bridge that I often drive across. It's a crucial transportation route linked the city and the western suburbs. From what I learned, it's 55 meter high and a structural engineering marvel that shadows the park it created name with Westgate park. This impressive bridge has been a vital part of Melbourne's infrastructure since its construction in 1978.
Sadly, I was told about its tragic history, a catastrophic incident occurred that claimed many lives and forever changed workplace safety standards in Australia.
The trees try their hardest to muffle the sound of traffic but are just beaten by the echoes of traffic on the bridge. As I meandered through the walking trails that crisscross the park, I came across some fascinating works of art scattered throughout the area. I had to remind myself how close we were to the city, literally 5 mins away. Hence, not to far to find a little peace of nature away from the hustle and bustle CBD. Seeing the bridge up close, we were in awe at its enormous size and scale. Such an incredible structure was designed, engineered, and constructed by Melbourne people with a lot of effort and hard work. β€οΈ
It was a bit overcast but we had a great walk at such a natural inspring space closes to the bustling cityscape above!! If you're in Melbourne, may I suggest you to find this hidden gem called Westgate park and enjoy!!
