An Australian icon of exceptional historical and cultural significance, the bridge is an immediately recognised landmark in a spectacular location.

A key part of Sydney's transport infrastructure, the bridge is the gateway between the City of Sydney and northern Sydney and is used by pedestrians, cyclists, rail commuters, bus commuters, and motorists.

Over 57.3 million vehicles cross the bridge each year. It is a focus of national and local celebrations and is strongly linked to its harbour setting and to the Sydney Opera House.

Mr Williamson constructed a matchstick model of the Sydney Harbour Bridge before he passed away in Marrickville around 1950 - 1955.

The model took1500 hours to build - using 200,000 matches, 15 pints of glue and two dozen sheets of glass paper.

It is 42 inches long, 24 inches wide and 27 inches high.

Mr Williamson's niece, Nerong resident Helen Amendolia, told the NOTA that to her knowledge, the actual matchstick model is still located in the south pylon of the bridge.

"Uncle Bill was in the Boar War, WW1 and WW2.

"He also made a model of the Notre Damn Cathedral and tried to enter it in the Royal Easter Show but it was not accepted because the matches could not be guaranteed to be Australian Wood," she said.

The Sydney Harbour Bridge will be closed to traffic in both directions on Sunday, March 18, from 4:30am until 11pm for the 75th Anniversary celebrations. Times given are approximate and may change on the day.

Patrons attending the celebrations are advised to use public transport.

You can register for the Sydney Harbour Bridge 75th Anniversary walk at the official website: www.ourbridge.com.au or phone 1300 884 899.