Phillip Island Boardwalk
Phillip Island Boardwalk - NatureTREAD™
Phillip Island, Victoria – Well-known for its natural beauty and environmental values, it is also home to the largest Little Penguin colony in the world. In the 1920s, there were plans to plans begin to develop Phillip Island into a commercial area. By the 1980s, it was decided to return the area to its natural habitat. This included a series of projects geared towards conservation and protecting the wildlife habitat and change the way the community and visitors interacted with the landscape. An improved visitor centre, viewing platforms and boardwalks were part of these projects.
Treadwell was engaged to supply the FRP grating for a section of the boardwalk leading to the coastline.
Project Challenges
- Being in an environmentally delicate location meant that the selected material had to present minimal impact to the surroundings.
- The grating and structural profiles had to remain robust while being permanently exposed to coastal conditions as well as the outdoor elements.
- The grating had to allow the existing vegetation and wildlife to thrive.
- Corrosion resistance, long lifespan and minimal maintenance were also key considerations.
Project Information
Project Category: Recreational Public Infrastructure
Scope of Work: Supply FRP Grating and Structural Profiles
Treadwell Products :
- NatureTREAD™ FRP Solution
- EX-Series® GratEX® FRP Mini Mesh Grating
NatureTREAD™
- Being lightweight, this FRP structure minimises the weight loading impact on its surroundings. Heavy machinery is not required, and any variance on task is easily managed with hand tools, eliminating the need for any hot works permit.
- Treadwell’s FRP products are constructed from premium resin systems that include corrosion resistant properties and UV inhibitors, making it ideal for this outdoor application.
- The grit on the surface met anti-slip requirements, while the aperture in the grating allows for the natural habitat to thrive.
- GratEX® FRP Grating is constructed as a large single piece panel, creating a seamless and uniform surface, without large gaps between panels.
- Given the nature of FRP, any system utilising it is virtually maintenance free, keeping maintenance costs to a minimum.
