More than a route to the stadium
Matagarup Bridge is a pedestrian crossing linking East Perth with the Burswood Peninsula and Optus Stadium. Opened to the public in July 2018, it can be enjoyed simply as a river crossing, especially when a walk or event gives the journey a clear purpose. The bridge’s flowing arches make it a landmark in their own right, and the structure is often illuminated for significant events and appeals. A visit does not require booking unless you intend to take part in the commercial climb or zipline experience.
Read the form from both banks
The best view of the bridge changes as you move. Stand back on either bank before crossing, then notice how the arches frame river and sky from the deck. The bridge is working infrastructure as well as a city landmark, so keep the shared route clear, move predictably and follow onsite interpretation and event directions. From the Burswood side, nearby parkland offers space to understand how the crossing connects the stadium precinct with East Perth and the wider city.
The climb and zipline are separate experiences
A private operator runs a bridge climb and zipline from the structure. Those are active, height-based experiences, not part of the ordinary pedestrian crossing. Check the operator’s current age, weight, clothing, health, weather and cancellation requirements before booking. Do not assume that being comfortable on the public bridge means the elevated activity will feel the same, and follow the operator’s arrival instructions rather than navigating only to a general bridge location.
Planning the public crossing
Access can be affected by event controls, maintenance or severe conditions. A one-way crossing is short; a return walk with pauses for views takes longer. Combine it with East Perth, the stadium precinct or a river loop rather than travelling only to step onto the deck. On event days, allow for crowds and follow traffic-management directions. Cyclists and other users should move predictably and give pedestrians space.
Daylight or evening
Daylight reveals the river setting and the bridge’s structural detail. Evening brings the illuminated arches and city lights, but also requires more attention to transport and personal safety. Check weather before either option: exposed sections can feel hotter, colder or windier than nearby streets. Bring water and sun protection for a daytime crossing. At night, stay on lit public routes and confirm the last practical transport connection rather than relying on an improvised return.
Getting there
The listed Burswood address is 333 Victoria Park Drive, with the bridge connecting across to East Perth. Which side makes sense depends on the rest of the day. Public transport and walking may be easier around major events than driving close to the venue, while quiet days offer more flexibility. Use a current journey planner because services and pedestrian diversions can change. If you have booked the climb, follow the operator’s arrival instructions rather than navigating only to the bridge coordinate.
Who it suits
The public crossing suits walkers looking for a clear river goal, architecture enthusiasts and visitors attending an event in the Burswood precinct. The commercial experiences suit people actively seeking height and speed and able to meet the operator’s requirements. Families should distinguish between the free bridge walk and the booked activity when discussing the plan with children. Either way, allow time to look outward: the river context is what prevents the visit becoming only a piece of infrastructure.
Sources
Sources last validated: 14 September 2026.