Lavender Bay Wharf – Timber Wharf Refurbishment

  • Government
  • Maintenance
  • Repairs
  • Wharf

Over-water rope access wharf restoration

Project Overview

Specialist Height Access revitalised a deteriorating timber wharf using advanced rope access techniques—restoring structural timber, repainting surfaces, and repairing roofing without the need for scaffolding. All works were completed under strict environmental controls, and minimal site impact.

Client
North Sydney Council
Duration
7 Days
A sunny harbor scene with a wooden pier, boats, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and city buildings in the background.

SOLUTION DELIVERED

Over-water refurbishment with environmental protection

North Sydney Council engaged our team to refurbish the Lavender Bay Wharf after significant timber deterioration, peeling paint, and general wear had compromised its appearance and condition. Traditional scaffolding was deemed impractical for the over-water location, so our technicians used rope access and creative rigging to reach all required areas safely. 

The works included sanding and repairing timber, replacing damaged screws, applying primer and topcoat paint, painting the corrugated metal roof, and cleaning the glass panels. A paint analysis revealed that lead was present in the existing coatings, requiring the use of specialist tools with integrated vacuum systems to capture debris during sanding. This ensured no contaminants entered the bay, meeting environmental protection requirements. 

Our methodology prioritised safety, precision, and environmental responsibility, combining skilled rope access techniques with detailed preparation and hazard control measures. The result was a restored wharf that met council’s expectations while safeguarding the marine environment. 

A construction worker wearing safety gear is working on a building with the Sydney Harbour Bridge in the background.

CLIENT TESTIMONIAL

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The team's capabilities used on this project

A construction worker hangs suspended from ropes while working on a building near the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
ROPE ACCESS
Over-water structural access
Using rope access techniques to safely perform restoration works in over-water environments without the need for scaffolding.
CLEVER RIGGING
Safe over-water positioning
Designing and implementing customised rigging systems to position workers and materials for safe access to hard-to-reach areas.
PAINTING & ENCAPSULATION
Lead paint removal and surface coating
Removing and encapsulating hazardous coatings using specialist tools with dust capture systems, followed by application of protective coatings to extend structure lifespan.
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION PROCEDURES
Contamination prevention during works
Implementing safety and environmental protocols to prevent hazardous material from entering waterways during restoration and maintenance projects.
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Talk to us about your project needs.

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The technical experts in high & hard-to-access areas

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