The remains of large steam boilers dating back to to the late 1800s have been uncovered during upgrade works at Rooneys Bridge in Railway Estate, Townsville.

The discovery was made by the project team undertaking investigations and repairs to the bridge, which was was built in 1953.

Member for Mundingburra Les Walker said it was an amazing find showcasing Townsville’s interesting history.

“There is evidence from historical records that the engines were at the Rooney Brothers sawmill on the banks of Ross Creek in 1897,” Mr Walker said.

“The sawmill had steam-powered cranes on its private loading wharf next to the current bridge.

“The Department of Environment and Science was notified of the archaeological artefacts after the project team discovered the Cochran-style vertical steam boilers.

“It is estimated these engines weigh up to two tonnes each, with one of the large engines found under the bridge partly submerged under water and embedded in the creek bed.”

Mr Walker said the cranes powered by steam engines would lift timber from boats, which travelled up Ross Creek to the sawmill.

“The wood was used to build North Queensland in those early days,” Mr Walker said.

“We’re not sure how the engine ended up in the middle of the creek, but we suspect it was washed in during the 1946 floods which were as significant as Townsville’s 2019 flooding event.

“One was found close to a bridge pile that was being repaired and had rusted so badly it was found to have very little archaeological or heritage value.

“As it was causing a safety issue for the divers working under the bridge, it will be removed.

“The other steam engine is partly submerged on the bank of the creek and is in reasonable condition. It is likely this one will remain where it is currently.”

Rooneys Bridge is undergoing a $5 million renovation program to repair and strengthen its 68 piles. The work is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland governments under the Bridges Renewal Program.