Gabion Wall Structure
N/A
New South Wales
N/A
N/A
N/A
Coalcliff Gabion Wall: 50 Years of Stability on the Illawarra Escarpment, New South Wales
Problem
Since 1974, the Coalcliff gabion wall has proven its resilience on the rugged slopes of the Illawarra escarpment, where steep terrain and frequent rockfalls pose challenges for infrastructure stability. In this dynamic environment, soil erosion, mass movement, and rockfalls are constant threats to the railway and surrounding developments. Additionally, decades of underground mining have intensified erosion, creating a high-risk area for roads, buildings, and essential services.
Solution
To address these challenges, a mass gravity gabion wall was constructed to protect the railway embankment near Coalcliff Station. This 60-meter-long wall, built with Maccaferri’s robust 80×100 hexagonally woven polymer coated mesh, offers unmatched strength. The wire is further reinforced with a polymer coating, designed to withstand corrosion, UV exposure, and the effects of the coastal climate.
Five decades later, recent inspections show the gabion wall remains in excellent condition with no visible corrosion, fatigue, or UV degradation. Built to adapt to the natural landscape, this structure exemplifies how Maccaferri’s engineering solutions counter environmental risks and ensure long-term resilience.
