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McGENNAN’S BEACH BOARDWALK AND ACCESS RAMP
Accessible coastal infrastructure designed for durability, user safety and long-term performance in demanding Southern Ocean conditions.
All-Abilities Beach Access in Warrnambool, Victoria
The redevelopment of McGennan’s Beach transformed a previously closed and unsafe beach entry into an inclusive access ramp and stairway for the wider community.
Located beside the McGennan’s Beach car park along Warrnambool’s southern coastline, the original timber stairs had been closed for several years after becoming unsafe. As part of Warrnambool City Council’s Beach Access Strategy, the site was rebuilt as an all-abilities access point and officially opened in September 2025.
Project Challenges
The access structure needed to provide inclusive public use while responding to difficult site, environmental and durability requirements.
- Inclusive Access: Providing all-abilities access in a high-use coastal location was essential to support people with mobility challenges and improve community access to the beach.
- Harsh Marine Exposure: Materials needed to withstand salt, moisture, wind, UV exposure and rough Southern Ocean conditions while maintaining long-term safety and performance.
- Changing Sand Levels: The design needed to accommodate large fluctuations in sand levels around the dunes. Structural footings extend up to six metres below the beach surface.
The Treadwell Solution
Treadwell supplied FRP balustrades, mini mesh grating and structural profiles for the upgraded beach access structure. The selected systems combine corrosion resistance, low weight, slip resistance and long-term outdoor performance.
The FRP products use premium resin systems with fire-retardant additives, UV inhibitors and integrated colour pigments, helping provide consistent performance and appearance in exposed coastal conditions.
Corrosion-Resistant Resin Systems
Suitable for salt-laden, wet and exposed coastal environments.
Durable Anti-Slip Surface
Impregnated grit provides a long-lasting walking surface and reduces delamination risk.
Lightweight Installation
Lower component weight helps reduce heavy machinery requirements and site disruption.
Long-Term Design Life
Treadwell FRP structures are designed for reliable, durable structural performance over the long term.
Products Used
A coordinated FRP system was selected to support structural performance, public safety and reduced maintenance requirements.
NatureTREAD™ FRP Balustrades
A coordinated FRP system was selected to support structural performance, public safety and reduced maintenance requirements.
- Corrosion resistant
- Lightweight and strong
- Low maintenance
- Suitable for coastal applications
EX-Series® GratEX® FRP Mini Mesh Grating
A secure walking surface with an impregnated grit finish for dependable slip resistance in wet and sandy conditions.
- Durable anti-slip finish
- Smaller mesh configuration
- Corrosion resistant
- Easy to handle on site
ArchitEX® FRP Structural Profiles
Strong, lightweight structural members that support long-term performance without the rust and rot associated with many conventional materials.
- High strength-to-weight ratio
- Resistant to rust and rot
- Reduced coating requirements
- Efficient installation
Project Outcome
The completed upgrade has created a safer, more inclusive and durable connection between the McGennan’s Beach car park and the coastline.
- Improved all-abilities beach access
- Long-lasting slip resistance
- Lower installation impact
- Reliable coastal performance
- Reduced maintenance requirements
- Support for accessible beach events