South East QLD experienced extreme rainfall from the 22nd to 23rd of September 2022 (Event 23C). Event 23C caused extensive flooding and landslips adjacent to Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) assets, resulting in damage across two LGAs, namely Gold Coast City Council and Scenic Rim Regional Council. This damage included major landslips, widespread pavement issues, and erosion around bridges and culverts.

The aim of the project project was to secure eligible funding under the DRFA program led by the Queensland Reconstruction Authority.

BG&E played a crucial role in aiding TMR with funding submissions and preliminary and detailed design following Event 23C across 43 separate site locations.

BG&E’s engagement included

• Conducting thorough site inspections to assess the extent of damage because of Event 23C.
• Determining eligibility for recovery assistance using DRFA guidelines.
•  Analysing treatment options with civil, hydraulic, and geotechnical engineers.
• Assessing any environmental impacts to ensure minimal disturbance to known flora and fauna species.
• Preparing and submitting the necessary documentation for endorsement and cost estimation.
• Developing the Issue for Construction (IFC) documentation.

Each of the 43 damage sites went through multiple gates of assessment starting from designation of a geotechnical or civil site. For geotechnical sites they’re based on the Slope Risk Assessment (SRA) and Assessed Risk Level (ARL) undertaken by the geotechnical team. The civil sites are assessed in accordance with the DRFA Eligibility Guidelines as well as the functionality of the site.

The project involved 43 sites in total including 17 major sites, 12 minor sites and 14 road maintenance sites. Major sites are complex and typically involve an engineered solution that is non-standard and site specific. Minor sites and road maintenance sites are relatively standard in nature and vary from pothole repairs to silt and debris cleaning around culverts, scaling and revegetation of scoured batters.

The technical quality, high degree of damage assessment and treatment optioneering was able to achieve value for money and full eligibility. BG&E’s proactive approach has been pivotal in aiding recovery efforts in these affected regions.