New columns for former reservoir
From the Spring/Summer 2009 edition of Bush Telegraph Magazine.
New columns were designed for this old reservoir and then inspected for compliance by Forests NSW timber inspectors. Photo by Richard Forrester
Forests NSW timber inspectors get called to some fascinating places, many of them with historical significance.
Recently the team was called upon to develop specifications for columns to be used in the refurbishment of a former reservoir in Sydney.
The reservoir was decommissioned some years ago and is now being refurbished for a new use.
Originally underground, timber columns supported brick arches that in turn supported soil and vegetation. On top of the reservoir was a park, frequented by many people who may not have known what lay below their feet.
There are still functioning reservoirs today with the same design.
The original columns were immersed in water to a level approximately 600mm from the top.
Forests NSW timber inspectors assisted engineers to draft an appropriate timber specification for new columns, in keeping with the original design.
We then inspected the selected timber, ironbark, at the mill where it was cut, to ensure it complied with the specifications, before the columns were placed in the reservoir.
Forests NSW has timber inspectors located in most parts of NSW where large hardwood structural timber products are produced.
Inspections can be arranged for both government and private customers to specifications agreed between buyer and seller.
Contact T: 02 9872 0179 or E: timberinspection@sf.nsw.gov.au for further information.
Richard Forrester Timber Inspection, Sydney
