The iconic Penguin Parade at Phillip Island, a beloved natural attraction and vital habitat for our fairy penguins, recently underwent a significant boardwalk expansion. This project utilised Surefoot's Concrete-Free Footings to prioritise and protect the delicate habitat of the resident little penguins throughout the entire process.
Our footings made this project viable through no excavation and minimal ground disturbance, cost and energy efficient transport of footings, and decreased hours of labour on site. This choice was not only a construction decision, but a commitment to minimising environmental impact, crucial in a habitat where every burrow matters.
This project exemplifies how forward-thinking and sustainable construction practices can seamlessly support both Australia's increasing eco-tourism infrastructure and unwavering commitment to environmental preservation, as is becoming more and more important. Read more to learn the full extent of the detailed construction process and collaborative effort behind this Surefoot success.
The primary objective was to expand the boardwalk and improve visitor access without compromising the sensitive penguin habitat.
Simpson Construction, Terroir Architects, and more collaborated closely, conducting thorough site mapping to plan around the penguin burrows.
This meticulous planning ensured the boardwalk's development was safe and non-destructive to the island.
Surefoot offered a significant environmental advantage, unlike traditional concrete footings necessitating large volumes, heavy transport, and extensive digging.
We bypassed the client's concerns whilst also substantially reducing the project’s carbon footprint.
The micro piles and clever design keep the volume of construction materials required for heavy load bearing to a minimum.
Our precise method was crucial to avoid interference with penguin burrows.
PROJECT DETAILS:
Qty: 180 footings
Size: S400 12P with only 8 Piles required / used to support
Load: 85kn or 8.5mt Bearing Load
Soils: Medium-dense sands
S400 - Versatile, Heavy Duty, Quick to Install - The Best of All Worlds
The selection of Surefoot's S400 model footings employed a strategy we often use when underground avoidance is a required.
With the loads only requiring 8 piles a footing and the S400’s 12 pile sleeves, it gave us more options to place the piles favourably to avoid the burrows underground.
This, along with our integral footing design, significantly reduced the ground disturbance.
Out of the 1,440 piles installed, only two burrows were affected, and no penguins were harmed.
The upgraded boardwalk and viewing platforms provide improved access, enhanced educational opportunities, and increased visitor capacity, all while safeguarding the fairy penguin habitat. This project serves as a model for how sustainable construction practices are advancing through Surefoot Footings and responsible planning.
Completed with a focus on environment conservation, this expansion ensures the Penguin Parade remains a world-class destination. We are proud to have contributed to the protection of this beautiful and historical site, and we look forward to all future projects where we can innovate creative solutions and employ sustainable practices.
