CHALLENGE

The Anzac Memorial was built and funded by the people of NSW, opening in 1934 to honour those who served in the Great War. Today it stands proudly as one of the state’s most significant cultural and commemorative institutions. Since its last re-waterproofing in 2009, substantial water penetration had occurred into the heritage building. Previous waterproofing measures had failed to halt the leaks resulting in visible penetrations to wall membrane on the monument podium. The first section of this heritage works would have to be completed in time for Anzac Day memorial celebrations and the final section completed by June, while allowing public access to enjoy the monument during the whole construction project.

SOLUTION

As a national monument with a huge amount of foot traffic, PCB undertook several site inspections to ascertain safety aspects to the public. Works on the North side commenced first allowing public access to walk along the South side of the monument. To mitigate pressure to the new waterproofing membrane PCB’s innovative solution was to utilise compatible shock mats within the flooring structure, with paver pedestals supporting the stone pavers on top. Due to a lingering musty atmosphere within the undercroft, a new ventilation system was also required. The challenge was where to discharge the bad air. Two solutions were presented – utilising existing ducting or bypassing through occupied personnel space, of which the latter was chosen. This added complexity was expertly handled by the project team to make sure that all interior and exterior works were completed in tandem. Pointing and repointing joints was executed with three different types of mortar mix, with one mix specifically formulated to prevent local Cockatoos from destroying the mortar. Aesthetic upgrades to the building included custom copper capping to external lighting and paint remediation to water damaged areas to breathe new life into this iconic heritage landmark.