The previous bridge, built before Australian federation, was the main hub for freight crossing the border between New South Wales and Queensland, where duties were collected by Customs.

It was erected in 1914-1915 and replaced a timber structure which served the border river crossing from 1878.

[4] The bridge was built at the expense of both states, at a cost of £12,325/5/-,[2] but on the responsibility of Queensland.

in the clear, and is carried above the highest known flood level.

[1] The historic Border Bridge is a landmark of Goondiwindi but it is not listed on the Queensland Heritage Register.