Project Overview

After one of the existing campgrounds was removed at the site, the remaining ground required refurbishment and expansion to accommodate the increased number of visitors.

Originally engaged to install new stormwater drainage structures and construct access roads, the relatively broad scope and an increase in material costs created an opportunity for us to ensure these solutions provided the best outcome for our customer and the ongoing needs of this remote site.

The works included construction of unsealed roads, camp sites and group camp areas, installation of non-potable water lines, drainage, and bollards and railing. We also decommissioned the old campground site, including camp facilities, buildings, and roads.

We worked closely with our customer and their budgetary limitations to find a more suitable solution that met their requirements to build with wood in this natural environment.

Challenges

With 1,000 timber bollards and more than 100 posts and guardrails required, suppliers with adequate capacity were hard to locate and as such, there was a 16-week delivery delay. We adjusted our program to move the timber installation works towards the back end of the schedule, to ensure we could deliver the works on time.

The area holds significance to visitors and first nations people and so communication and consultation with the rangers was respectful and proactive. With multiple variations needed during the construction period, close and constant communication with the park rangers was required. Drainage was a persistent issue, and the project became challenging when roads would become periodically become unpassable. All works were meticulously planned and managed due to the project’s remote location and National Park status, with a black spot in communication that had to be considered

Outcomes

The upgrade increased 40 campsites to 60 and one amenity block to four, a significant achievement in a remote terrain subject to sub-zero temperatures. The local community and visitors will now enjoy designated tent and caravan areas with BBQ sites and new toilet and shower facilities. Meal preparation and picnic tables will enhance their experience and those with a disability have been considered. The Queensland Government has commented that this restoration has set the benchmark for future Queensland campground upgrades, and communication with rangers with flexibility and sensitivity during the project has demonstrated our commitment to working with a variety of stakeholders in diverse locations.