Located at Westport Park in Port Macquarie, NSW, the project forms part of the Westport Park Link Pathway & Wharf upgrade by Port Macquarie-Hastings Council. The new launching structure replaces an ageing concrete staircase, connecting the upgraded shared pathway directly to the Hastings River and improving access for kayaking, canoeing and other non-motorised water activities.
CHALLENGES AND Solutions
Download the full case study covering scope, delivery approach, and outcomes.
View Full Case StudyThe project required a specialised marine access structure capable of withstanding frequent saltwater exposure, fluctuating tides and significant flood forces while providing safe access for both pedestrians and watercraft. The design also needed to minimise disturbance to the foreshore and integrate seamlessly with the new shared pathway.
Changing tidal conditions
An approximately 8.8-metre sloping structure was designed with separate pedestrian stairs and a kayak ramp, allowing users to access the water across varying tidal levels.
Marine corrosion resistance
DMBEAM™ structural profiles, DMGRATE™ decking and marine-grade stainless steel components provide a durable, low-maintenance system suited to repeated saltwater exposure and partial submersion.
Flood and hydraulic loading
The structure was engineered to withstand a 1-in-50-year flood event, accounting for flow velocity, buoyancy, hydraulic forces and debris loading.
Low-impact foundations
FRP CHS piles were designed to support the structure while minimising excavation and disturbance to the surrounding foreshore environment.
Safe pedestrian and kayak access
Slip-resistant pedestrian grating was paired with a smooth, concave-finish kayak ramp to provide secure footing while reducing the risk of damage to watercraft during launching and retrieval.
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