Visitor safety at iconic tourist locations is an understandable priority for Parks Victoria. As is their preference for products that are sustainable and kind on the natural environment. Unique, decorative skid and slip-resistant surfaces were needed at their new iconic Saddle Lookout.
Client problems
Parks Victoria needed a superior surface treatment that could perform reliably in both dry and wet conditions while offering superior slip resistance.
Parks Victoria faced the challenge of replacing the outdated viewing areas at the 12 Apostles, which could no longer safely accommodate the increasing number of visitors year-round.
The coastal environment of Port Campbell National Park, while breathtaking, is also incredibly fragile, requiring a design that would not only cater to visitor access but also protect the delicate landscape.
The project’s design had to be meticulously planned to ensure minimal impact on this sensitive environment. The two long steel rectangular sections—one resting on the terrain’s ‘saddle’ and the other cantilevered towards the horizon—addressed the need for a ‘light touch’ on this unique location.
These sections provided a visually striking yet environmentally considerate solution that harmonized with the natural surroundings.
Given the constant influx of visitors, the client required surface treatments that could perform reliably in both dry and wet conditions while offering superior slip resistance. OmniGrip ReSurface is also easily cleaned with water. These features are essential to preserve the appearance of this key destination for domestic and international tourists, and to keep people safe in all weather conditions.
Our solution
Following close liaison with the client on hazard identification and risk assessment, OmniGrip Direct proposed several safe and sustainable OmniGrip Resurface products to meet the unique requirements of the ‘clapstick’ design.
The choice of these solutions was also guided by the design priorities of the Eastern Maar peoples, the Traditional Owners of the land.
The chosen products, 3mm Black Pepper Granite OmniGrip Resurface, were selected for their slips, trips and falls prevention qualities and their superior performance and10-year Service Life.
OmniGrip Resurface is suitable for a variety of substrates, including concrete, asphalt, steel, and timber.
This versatility allowed for the efficient installation of 488m² of OmniGrip’s Resurface, enabling Simpson Construction Co to complete their work on time for the grand opening of the new $9.2 million Saddle Lookout.
This rapid installation process was critical for adhering to the project’s tight schedule and ensuring visitor safety upon opening.
Detailed results and impact
By selecting OmniGrip Resurface for the Saddle Lookout as part of the Shipwreck Coast Master Plan, Parks Victoria successfully avoided the excessive liquid waste and repeat site visits typically associated with exposed aggregate concrete. This is in keeping with Parks Victoria’s commitment to sustainable waste management.
This was particularly important for the constrained and environmentally sensitive site of the 12 Apostles.
The use of durable OmniGrip Resurface also means significantly lower maintenance and replacement costs to improve financial sustainability over time, effectively future-proofing the Saddle Lookout.
This not only ensures long-term savings, it also demonstrates how to reduce the environmental impact of construction, frequent repairs and replacements common with other non-slip surface coatings.
OmniGrip ReSurface is the perfect safety solution to increase product life cycles which means it will contribute to the sustainability of nature tourism within Port Campbell National Park for many years to come.
By ensuring safe and reliable access to the 12 Apostles and focusing on slips, trips and falls prevention, these products help maintain the area as a significant attraction, supporting local businesses and the regional economy. The continued influx of tourists translates to job creation and substantial economic benefits for the region, underlining the importance of thoughtful, sustainable infrastructure solutions.
In summary, the use of innovative OmniGrip Resurface provides a robust, eco-friendly construction solution that enhances visitor safety, reduces the environmental impact of construction, and supports the local economy.
This project exemplifies how sustainable design and strategic product selection can achieve remarkable results, balancing the needs for safe tourism and ensuring people get home safely every day, with the imperative of environmental stewardship.
Benefits for Park Victoria
- Avoiding environmental damage: Using OmniGrip Resurface reduces the runoff of cement, sand, chemical surface retardants and detergents commonly used when installing and maintaining exposed aggregate concrete. This protects adjacent and nearby flora and fauna in delicate natural settings.
- Accommodating more visitors safely: This advanced surface treatment guarantees exceptional safety across all weather conditions, ensuring that visitors remain secure whether the surface is wet or dry. It provides a robust and reliable solution that effectively minimizes risks, making it ideal for the heavily trafficked area frequented by tourists year-round.
“This is an exciting period at the Port Campbell National Park, with projects underway that recognise the area’s cultural heritage, help protect the coastal environment and improve the visitor experience.”
– Jason Borg, Regional Director, Parks Victoria
Images thanks to Parks Victoria.