Reaching the worksite was one of the project’s biggest challenges. Located 13km off the coast of Mallacoota and more than 500km from Melbourne, Gabo Island demanded extensive planning before remediation works could begin.
Kennedys Group delivered the project for Parks Victoria. A team of seven lived and worked on the island for extended periods while completing asbestos remediation across several buildings within the Gabo Island Lighthouse Reserve. Limited access and changing weather conditions often dictated transport schedules. The team carefully coordinated every stage of the program.
Mobilisation required a dedicated barge to transport equipment, materials and supplies from Lakes Entrance to Gabo Island. The team planned accommodation, safety requirements, work sequencing and logistics around changing marine conditions, high winds and restricted access.
The scope included removing asbestos roofing and surface contamination from the Head Keepers Quarters, Assistant Keepers Quarters, Signalman’s Quarters, Jetty Shed and Pump House. Following asbestos removal, the team cleaned roof cavities, completed structural repairs, installed insulation and replaced roofing with stainless steel corrugated iron.
Waste management formed a critical component of the works. The team safely bagged asbestos materials, secured them within transport crates and transported them by barge to Eden, NSW. An approved facility then received and disposed of the waste.
The heritage-listed precinct added another layer of complexity. The team retained and repaired existing structural elements wherever possible. They also maintained strict safety, air monitoring and clearance requirements throughout the works.
Despite the challenges of a remote marine environment, Kennedys Group removed hazardous materials and restored critical infrastructure. The works also helped preserve one of Victoria’s most significant lighthouse reserves.
