Shorebird Reserve

“Helping nature lovers enjoy a pristine local ecosystem without disturbing or damaging it”

Executive Summary

Following a detailed proposal process, Fleetwood was engaged to design, construct and install a spectacular new viewing platform at Taren Point Shorebird Reserve, at the edge of Woolooware Bay in Sydney’s south. Together with a new hardwood boardwalk and bespoke bird hide, the completed project allows nature lovers to get up close and observe the migratory birds that regularly visit the area during low tide - without disturbing either the birds or their sensitive local habitat.

Client

Sutherland Shire Council

Completed

2009

State

NSW

Scope of Work

Deliver, Detail, Develop, Discover

Pillar

Access

Fleetwood Involvement

Fleetwood Urban was awarded the project by Sutherland Shire Council following a detailed proposal process that included a 3D visualisation and walk through. We worked closely with the Council’s planners from concept and design to manufacture and installation, ensuring every aspect met their strict guidelines. We then delivered each element with the utmost of efficiency and consideration for the native Shorebird Reserve habitat. The centrepiece structure was the new viewing platform, constructed and assembled on site using timber driven piles, Class 1 Australian Hardwood superstructure, decking and posts. All cables and fixings are from stainless steel.

More Project Information

1

It was essential the new viewing deck was created in harmony with the pristine local environment at Woolooware Bay. This necessitated a design that blended in with the natural surroundings and used natural materials wherever possible.

2

The primary challenge was to protect the abundant local flora and fauna. From groundwork and construction to final installation, it was especially important to minimise disturbances to the existing ground conditions.

3

The footings were innovative and required some clever engineering, especially given the very narrow corridor of works. The final design utilised a low-impact pin system to ensure very little disturbance to the local ecology while still being able to withstand sand erosion which was typical in the area.

4

  • Viewing deck
  • Boardwalk
  • Bird hide
5

  • Hardwood piles
  • Unseasoned hardwood
  • Stainless steel
6

Being a sensitive bird environment, the Council was very particular about not disturbing or endangering the local flora. This required extra care to be taken during the construction stage – including a very narrow construction corridor, and also a fast install before the migratory birds came!

7

With the bulk of construction and assembling taking place at Shorebird Reserve, particular care was taken to limit any penetration and disturbance of existing ground conditions. This sensitive work has helped to preserve this precious section of Sydney for future generations.

8

The additions to Shorebird Reserve play a crucial role in enhancing the social fabric of the Taren Point community. Local residents and visitors can now share in the area’s unique ecosystem and native birdlife, which provides a stunning natural backdrop for gatherings with family or friends, or simply escaping the city bustle.

9

The new walkway and viewing deck have significantly improved public access, making it easier and safer for Taren Point residents and visitors to experience the reserve and its natural delights – without damaging the environment. It’s one of the area’s most popular destinations for walkers and joggers.