Duratec is undertaking remediation works to Brisbane’s Clem Jones Promenade, shoring up its presence as a central element to the city’s waterfront.
About the promenade
Located on the southern banks of the Brisbane River, South Bank is home to art galleries and museums, a burgeoning bar and dining scene, CBD skyline views and parklands. It also contains the Clem Jones Promenade, a paved walkway that stretches along the river. Named after the city’s longest serving Lord Mayor (1961-75), the Clem Jones Promenade opened in 1992 and hosts millions of visitors each year.
The structure itself
The structure of the promenade varies along its length but consists mainly of concrete elements – its sub-structure is supported by in-river concrete piles and decking units, while other precast concrete elements include a retaining wall, decking slab units, headstock, fascia and piles. The lower promenade is made of timber decking and incorporates several pontoons, which are used for recreational water activities.
Mission: Inspection
Pre- 2024
In 2021, an inspection of the promenade structure revealed varying levels of deterioration. While some structural elements exhibited acceptable performance, others displayed more significant damage – all to be expected, however, of a 30-year-old marine structure.
Additional inspections in 2022 and 2023 reaffirmed the original findings, which included the following:
- Vertical cracking in piers
- Corrosion marks/staining to deck slab units
- Cracking and concrete spalling to deck slab units, including soffits
- Corrosion marks/staining to headstocks and corrosion to headstock joints
- Concrete spalling and corrosion to skirting
- Corrosion to steel fixing brackets
By the end of 2023, South Bank Corporation – which oversees the development, activation and management of the promenade – decided remediation works were necessary to maintain both the charm and functionality of the promenade, and ensure its continued presence as a beloved and central part of the city’s riverfront pedestrian network. The organisation went out to tender in early 2024.
Duratec Investigates
As part of the tender process, Duratec undertook its own condition assessment. The team wanted to make sure it had a good understanding of the Clem Jones Promenade structure, including its defects, as this would inform the construction methodology.
It was clear from the outset that this was not going to be your stock-standard inspection. The structure was a unique beast that threw equally unique challenges at those wanting to take a closer look. In order to complete a thorough investigation, the team implemented innovative access methods and employed out-of-the-ordinary equipment – think kayaks, a team of divers and helmet-mounted underwater cameras.
The inspection was conducted over a two-week period and involved a visual survey of the timber decking and core sampling of concrete piles for laboratory testing. The team also built a 3D model of the structure, which was then populated with data as defects were discovered. This digital representation serves as a central point of truth for the project and can be used to facilitate asset management and maintenance planning in the future.
Upon completion of the condition assessment, Duratec compiled a report with recommendations regarding the remediation of the structure. The proposed scope of works was included in the tender and the project was awarded to Duratec mid-2024.
The task(s) ahead
Project objective
The overall objective of this project is to extend the life of the existing promenade structure, including the timber decking and pontoons B & C, while minimising impact to users of the South Bank precinct during construction. In order to do this, the structure was divided into five work zones, with the majority of works to take place in zone 3 in front of the manmade beach.
Scope of works
Promenade structural repairs
- Remediation of existing promenade piles and pre-stressed deck units
- Application of protective coatings to existing deck slab and deck unit soffits
- Remediation of defects on existing headstocks, retaining walls, fascia walls and deck slabs
- Recoating/replacement of steelwork
- New access hatch for maintenance access to zone 4 below deck
Timber deck replacement
- Replacement of existing timber decking and timber joists
- Repair/replacement of steel support brackets
- Refurbishment of timber bench seating
Pontoons B & C
- Demolition and replacement of existing pontoons B and C with like-for-like pontoons
- Remediation of associated elements, including concrete piles and steel pile protective wraps
- Replacement of worn fender panels and gangway rollers
- Recoating or replacement of fender support brackets
Not your average job
There are many aspects of this project that set it apart from others, not the least of which is its high visibility in the vibrant cultural and lifestyle hub of Brisbane. As with any undertaking, though, challenges inevitably arise, encouraging project teams to remain alert and adaptable.
Duratec has mastered the art of flexibility over time, embracing an agile approach to problem-solving. When issues emerge – as they inevitably do – the team works collaboratively to devise innovative solutions. With extensive experience in the marine sector, repairing all kinds of operational wharf infrastructure, Duratec was able to pre-empt many of these challenges and come up with solutions prior to mobilising on site.
Maintaining a ‘live’ promenade
Clem Jones Promenade is accessible by foot, vehicle and other means of non-vehicle transport, and experiences a high volume of visitors daily. Part of Duratec’s job, therefore, is to ensure the structure remains operational, especially during key events. To assist with this endeavour, the works have been staged across five zones, ensuring the structure is able to accommodate visitors year-round.
Traffic and pedestrian management resources have also been deployed, and include spotters, barriers, directional signage, fencing and gantries. To delineate work areas, exclusion zones are installed using appropriate fencing and signage, thereby eliminating and allowing for safe and continuous pedestrian traffic.
Working in a confined space
Part of the works are to be carried out to the underside of the promenade walkway, which is classed as a confined space. To ensure safety during works in this area, Duratec has implemented a confined space procedure, compliant with AS 2865, and requires team members to use entry permits. The continuous testing of air quality, appropriate forced ventilation during coating application and careful management of exhaust air are other measures implemented to mitigate risks.
Navigating tides
Access to certain areas of the worksite, e.g. underneath the boardwalk, has been greatly affected by tide levels. While Duratec had taken this into account from the outset, the team adopts a flexible approach to access methods, largely due to frequently changing conditions. Various marine vessels and temporary access systems have allowed the team to choose the method best suited to each situation on a case-by-case basis.
Looking ahead
Works to the Clem Jones Promenade are progressing at a steady pace and milestones are being reached on a regular basis. Upon completion in late 2026, this rejuvenated piece of infrastructure will play a strong part in improving the practical and aesthetic appeal of South Bank, while simultaneously supporting Brisbane’s reputation as a vibrant destination for locals and tourists alike.
