Located at Edithburgh Jetty on South Australia’s Yorke Peninsula, the site is one of the state’s most iconic and heavily used shore-diving destinations, attracting snorkellers and scuba divers from across the region and interstate. The dive stairs form part of a broader upgrade to the jetty precinct led by Yorke Peninsula Council, enhancing safety, accessibility, and the overall visitor experience while reinforcing Edithburgh’s role as a key marine tourism and community destination.
Installation of a prefabricated marine dive stair system delivering safe, tide-flexible water access.
CHALLENGES AND Solutions
The project required a safe and durable dive access solution capable of performing in a high-energy marine environment, while being installed under severe access constraints with no heavy plant permitted on the jetty.
Restricted access conditions
With no plant allowed on the jetty deck, the stair system was preassembled onshore and installed using a single controlled lift to minimise over-water works.
Marine and wave exposure
A combined steel and FRP system was adopted to withstand constant wave action, splash-zone exposure, and long-term marine conditions.
Tidal variability
Multiple intermediate platforms were incorporated into the stair design, allowing safe entry and exit across a wide range of tide levels.
Foundation and stability requirements
Driven piles installed through grouted sleeves provided precise alignment, structural capacity, and long-term stability, while a rock cage system delivered toe protection in the tidal zone.
Construction risk and safety
A staged installation methodology reduced exposure time in the splash zone, improved sequencing control, and enhanced overall safety during construction.
