24 April 2024
Flood restoration work on Urliup Road is presenting a number of unique challenges for contractors Hazell Brothers.
The road was severely damaged after the 2022 floods in several locations but restoration work has been progressing well, when weather permits.
To stabilise the slopes, drilling crews – who are IRATA-trained and specialised in rope access works – use a purpose-built Marini Drill Rig to install soil nails and rock anchors, then either hydromulch and tecco mesh or shotcrete the stabilised slope.
The rig is specifically designed for use in unique and difficult-to-reach locations and is moved into position by the crew using a chain block system that is attached to a combination of concrete blocks, temporary anchors and trees.
Drilling is done pneumatically and controlled from the drill rig. It is conducted in a diamond pattern across the slope face for stability. Usually, drilling will be done in an up/down pattern working from one side of the slope to the other.
Immediately following drilling, the crew will install the soil nail and grout the same day, via a small hole down the centre of the 30mm diameter nail to minimise the risk of the hole collapsing.
Following completion of drilling, the slope is then stabilised with a hand-sprayed concrete mix by the Rope Access Crew progressively in a single day.
Find out more about the Urliup Road restoration project and other flood restoration work across the Tweed on Council's Flood Recovery page.