Rapid Response Road Rehabilitation at Woomera, South Australia

Severe rainfall in South Australia caused significant road failures, halting critical supply chains to the Roxby Downs community and BHP operations. In response, Red Mulga Australia (RMA) swiftly partnered with the RAAF and Roxby Downs Council to restore functionality to the Woomera Bypass Road within a two-week emergency construction window.

Scope of Works

The project involved complete road rehabilitation, culvert reinstatement, and surface resealing. Key tasks included:

1. Transporting 350 tonnes of Class 1 road base from Opal Road Quarry to the Woomera site.

2. Excavating and removing the damaged road base and culvert system.

3. Reconstructing the road foundation, including:

   Bench and batter works to 3 metres depth.

   Assessing and replacing unstable culvert base material.

   Layered backfilling and compaction using conditioned material in 300mm increments.

4. Spray sealing and aggregate application repeated in three layers.

5. Maintenance over an additional 3 kilometres of adjacent road, including:

   • Bitumen patching and pothole repairs with Easy Street Bitumen and spray seal.

   • Shoulder reconstruction using profiler and roller compaction.

   • Final line marking and road furniture installation.

Execution and Outcome

Despite the urgency and complexity of terrain conditions, Red Mulga delivered:

• Safe execution under pressure

• Reinstated full vehicular access within two weeks

• Enhanced surface durability using a hybrid approach to sealing

• Zero incidents or delays

Final Remarks

This emergency rehabilitation at Woomera highlights Red Mulga’s responsiveness and technical competence in critical infrastructure scenarios. Our team’s proactive engagement and skilled execution ensured restored access for vital community and industrial operations in record time.