the limeburners boat launching facility is a significant launching facility in geelong, servicing corio bay. it oriignally comprised three ramps plus a small ramp intended for small craft. the limeburners boat launching facility was planned to be upgraded in two stages and was based upon a concept developed by cardno.

stage one designed in 2022 comrpised renewal of the site arrangement but excluded the ramps and pontoons. Sureside’s scope in stage one comprised a nonpowered boat launching structure only. this structure was functionally designed to provide ease of access for a team of people handling boats via a dolly and enabling the vessel to be handled into the water and then embarked from the side. the structure was arranged to meet dda requirements.

stage two comprised renewal of ramps and pontoons. the ramps required widening to comply with australian standards. safety and useability were enhanced through reducing the height of pontoons relative to the ramps and enabling deeper pontoons to be used that would enhance stability and comfort of users. an innovative design solution was utilised that comprised supports for pontoons on stiff rubber fenders to provide an even bearing surface and to allow silt and debris to be self cleansing.

project client: department of transport, victoria

sureside client: water technology

project manager: better boating victoria

services: existing asset renewal & functional design

Location: geelong, south-western victoria, port phillip, victoria, australia

time period: 2021-2025