Great Collaboration
A Brisbane City Council project with BESIX Watpac as the principal, BESIX Watpac brought together specialist delivery partners as well as hand-selected subcontractors to deliver this landmark infrastructure. This included architects and designers including Blight Rayner Architecture, Dissing+Weitling, ASPECT Studios, Right Angle Studio, and Blaklash. Engineering was handled by WSP and RWDI, with embedded specialists Rizzani de Eccher and Tensa. Communication and stakeholder engagement were managed by Rowland, and the concept and reference design were developed by Brisbane City Council in collaboration with Arup and COX Architecture. BESIX Watpac selected Beenleigh Steel Fabrications for the steel fabrication and Tranzblast Coating Services for the coatings application – a partnership that has spanned many projects.
Protecting the Bridge's Structural Steel
Through the partnership between BESIX Watpac, Beenleigh Steel and Tranzblast, Dulux® Protective Coatings has been entrusted with the task of providing a three-coat PUR5 system to protect its structural steel. This system was carefully selected to deliver maximum durability and an extended maintenance cycle, offering an exceptional level of protection for the bridge's steel components.
The Chosen PUR5 System
The approved PUR5 system for the Kangaroo Point Bridge comprises three essential coats. The first coat is Dulux® Zincanode® 402, a two-pack epoxy zinc-rich primer that provides sacrificial protection to the steel substrate. The second coat consists of Dulux® Duremax® GPE, a high-performance two-pack epoxy formulated for severe environments, making it suitable for fresh and salt-water immersion. The final coat is Dulux® Weathermax® HBR, a high-build recoatable polyurethane topcoat that excels in marine environments and can withstand extreme UV exposure.
Each product in the PUR5 system offers distinct advantages. Zincanode 402 provides critical atmospheric exposure protection with efficient maintenance. Duremax GPE facilitates fast turnaround and workshop throughput. Weathermax HBR ensures long-term color and gloss retention in a durable, glossy off-white finish. With its proven track record on other high-profile projects nationwide the PUR5 system was the perfect coating system to meet an extended maintenance cycle of up to 25 years to first maintenance in accordance with AS 2312.1 Table 6.3.
Specification Support and Ongoing Assistance
Dulux® Protective Coatings Brendan Lichtendonk has been actively involved in supporting diverse stakeholders throughout the Kangaroo Point Bridge project, providing valuable coatings advice during the construction tender process, assisting builders in interpreting and costing the specifications. The specification was included in the reference design developed by COX Architecture, ensuring compliance with the TN144 standard set by the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads.
Outlining the Program of Works
At every stage of the project, Dulux® Protective Coatings Queensland team has added value by working closely with Beenleigh Steel Fabrications (BSF) and applicators at Tranzblast under the guidance of BESIX Watpac. They have provided guidance on the necessary steps and processes for workshop applications, dockside applications, over-water applications, and maintenance applications. Their dedication to detail ensures the bridge's protective coatings painting works are executed flawlessly.
The completion of the Kangaroo Point Bridge marks a great achievement for Brisbane, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits to the city. As cyclists and pedestrians enjoy the convenience of this bridge, its striking features and exceptional protection will continue to captivate residents and visitors alike for years to come.
Get in touch with our coatings experts if you need specification, tender or application support.
Video footage courtesy of Nathanael Weir of Phyd Media Solutions.
