When you’re welcoming hundreds of thousands of passengers a year through a world-class international cruise terminal, first impressions matter. For the Port of Brisbane, this meant transforming a functional space close to its bustling Brisbane International Cruise Terminal into something far more visually pleasing.
Visual barrier with extras
Tasked with creating an attractive visual barrier along the site boundary, the project addressed a complex mix of challenges: high wind exposure, sensitive water tables, and constant noise from local industrial activity. That’s where ModularWalls ® stepped in.
While the brief called for visual screening, the custom-built solution delivered far more than expected including acoustic benefits, durability against wind loads, and a streamlined installation process that respected the site’s unique environmental constraints.
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Solution focused
Like so many of ModularWalls’ other commercial projects, designing and creating a customised walling solution to meet the needs of the client was paramount, especially given the tight completion timeframe of less than 60 days. With 660m of wall to design and install, the team worked closely with the Port’s project management team to create a solution that ticked every box.
Challenges overcome
Throughout the process, there were several considerations that need to be addressed.
Visual aesthetics: A modern cruise terminal demands a clean, welcoming environment. While the primary objective was to provide a visual screen along the site boundary, ModularWalls went several steps further. Working with the Port’s project team, the completed design complemented the existing architecture of the cruise terminal, ensuring a cohesive visual experience for visitors and staff alike. Custom finishes such as colour and a wire trellis system to support plants of several types along the wall, allowed the wall to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, creating a facade that significantly enhanced the Port’s curb appeal.
Noise pollution: Both the Port and neighbouring industrial surrounds posed a noise issue. The installation of the unique acoustic panel system helped to solve this issue. For a bustling terminal that thrives on passenger comfort and operational efficiency, this acoustic advantage helped create a quieter environment right from the car park.
High wind exposure: The wall had to withstand upgraded ultimate wind loads in the area. To help combat this, ModularWalls used Class C 50MPa MRTS70 compliant concrete for the footings.
Sensitive water tables: Due to the location of the wall being in a marine environment, the subsoil was a combination of sand and marine clays, and the footing close to the water table. The design was adjusted and extra footings installed to minimise ground disruption while respecting the environmental challenges.
Sustainability Plus
At ModularWalls, we are always conscious of the environmental footprint we leave. In this instance, our use of smaller steel posts, lightweight panels, efficient installation (less machinery use onsite), and a 50-year design life of our walls in a harsh, aggressive environment, helped us achieve a positive sustainable outcome.
A welcoming entry point
From reducing noise and withstanding high winds to preserving local ecosystems and enhancing aesthetics, the Port’s new wall installation is now a vital piece of its passenger experience infrastructure.
With a cleaner, quieter, and more visually appealing entry point, the world-class Brisbane International Cruise Terminal continues to support Queensland’s cruise tourism industry.
Looking to solve a complex boundary or screening challenge?
ModularWalls provides bespoke, high-performance walling solutions across Australia. Contact us today to discuss your project needs.