Hyne Timber supplied timber beams to build a platform at Sealy Lookout, Coffs Harbour in NSW.
The design brief from Forests NSW required a platform to be built to provide improved views to the north and south. The timber platform also needed to showcase the use of Australian hardwoods.
Durability and acceptance in a bushfire prone area with the ability to handle live loads of 4kPa and 4.5kN were key requirements for the timber. Hyne worked closely with the engineer, John Tozer to advise on the type of connections that would allow the beams to be considered continuous, thus reducing the size of the beams required.
It was decided to combine steel and timber to give a dramatic structure that was generous in length while the twin tall steel columns provided a visual gateway to the viewing area at the end, offering views along the entire coast from Coffs Harbour in the east down to Nambucca Heads in the south.
Projecting a total of 21.6 metres from the promenade edge, the platform comprises of large section laminated beams made from SE Queensland hardwood and supported by an innovative stainless steel cable structure. The decking is turpentine while the handrails are grey gum.
Charcoal coloured steel, natural timber and stainless steel cables have been integrated into a single structure for a striking appearance. The timber platform also showcases the use of engineered timber in large spans.
Hynebeam 21S large section 485 x 85mm timber beams were used for the project.
