Currumbin Creek Link Gabion Retaining Wall

Problem

Landslips that occurred during the extreme flooding in SE Qld in 2011 and 2013 caused extensive damage to the infrastructure in the area. Currumbin Creek Rd services many houses in Currumbin Valley and was majorly impacted by the downpour. The slip had failed right up to the edge of the road and had the potential to undermine the road if no action was taken to protect the road embankment. The Gold Coast Council City Council had no other option than to devise a plan of attack.

Solution

Gold Coast City Council undertook feasibility studies as to the best method to reinstate this landslip. It was determined that a mass gravity gabion wall would be the most appropriate due to the tight constraints posed by Currumbin Creek Rd and Currumbin Creek.

The proven performance of gabions in retaining unstable soils and also having to deal the hydraulics of rapidly rising and falling water levels of Currumbin creek during flash flooding, made a gabion wall the most feasible option.

The contractor selected by the Council had previously successfully completed other major gabion and rock mattress projects for council. The contractor choose Link® Galfan/PVC gabions due to their proven performance characteristics which are vital in providing a long term durability required for this design. Link® PVC Galfan Gabions carry a BBA certificate (a test of durability). This certificate is recognised throughout the world as one of the highest tests that a gabion can be subjected to and states that Link®PVC/Galfan coated product have a design life of up to 120 years.

The project proceeded with some small delays due to access issues, as it proved challenging getting material across the creek during rain events. This project commenced in August 2014 and was completed September 2014.