At more than 150 years of age, the Point Gellibrand seawall had seen better days. Duratec was able to restore the historic structure and extend its lifespan.
Point Gellibrand Coastal Heritage Park, situated on Bunurong Country (Williamstown, Victoria) is rich in both Indigenous and non-Indigenous history. The park was established to protect both the heritage values, as well as the coastal character of the area, while providing visitor facilities and passive open-space opportunities.
The park is the playground of not only locals but also those from further afield who use the area for recreation, fitness and social activities year-round. Arguably the jewel in the crown of the heritage park is the Point Gellibrand seawall, originally constructed in the 1850s.
While repairs to the seawall had taken place intermittently over the years, by 2021, years of wind and wave-erosion had resulted in damage to sections of the seawall and the dislodgement of bluestone blocks. Following geotechnical and structural investigations, a scope of works was developed and like-for-like repairs were given the green light as part of the Victorian Government’s $21 million Urban Parks Active Wellbeing Program.
In 2022, Duratec was appointed by Parks Victoria to undertake the repairs and restore the historic seawall, simultaneously preserving the structure for the enjoyment of generations to come.
There were two sections of the seawall requiring repair – section A, which is bound by the car park and extends approximately 110 metres; and section B, which runs along Battery Road and is about 80 metres in length. Section A is 2.5 metres high while section B is 1.5 metres in height.
Scope of works
Like-for-like seawall repair works included:
- Re-grouting across both sections of the seawall
- Removal and replacement of precast concrete capping to section A
- Re-installation (where possible) and/or replacement of existing bluestone blocks
- Sectional installation of geotextile, concrete foundation, scour protection and shotcrete capping to provide added structural support
A successful and rewarding outcome
The project team consulted various bodies, including the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), Heritage Victoria, Hobsons Bay City Council and Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation.
The project was completed and delivered before its programmed completion date. The successful restoration of the Point Gellibrand seawall means this unique piece of Victoria’s history will continue to play a part in the lives of locals and visitors for years to come.
