By Dan Hadley – JLB Adelaide
Fitness lovers, long walkers and beach goers are once again able to take the journey along the scenic Hallett Cove Boardwalk after Metcalf Group (SA) completed sections of the SA Government’s $2.44 million revitalization project. With safety for the public as top priority, Metcalf sought about ensuring that this well-known SA treasure would return to its former glory.
The Boardwalk is one of South Australia's most outstanding geological and archaeological sites at the Hallett Cove Conservation Park area, where more than 1,500 Indigenous Australian artefacts have been discovered over time. Furthermore, the Boardwalk includes evidence of an Australian ice age some 280 million years ago. The outstanding glacial pavements along the northern cliff tops are recognized as some of the best records of Permian glaciation but more important to most is the Park’s beach which is a very popular swimming spot during spring and summer.
The sections of boardwalk which span the Grey Road and Kurnabinna Terrace gullies have now been entirely rebuilt. The iconic walking trail is hugely popular with the local community and offers some stunning views of Adelaide’s pristine beaches and coastline. The Hallett Cove Boardwalk is also a popular destination within the Glenthorne National Park precinct.
The State Government’s $2.44 million injection was jointly matched by the City of Marion, bringing the project to $4.88 million in total construction value. The project forms part of the SA Government’s $50 million stimulus measure to drive more local projects and stimulate support local jobs, businesses and supply in the wake of COVID-19. Upon completion, Metcalf Group’s Managing Director Gary Metcalf said; “it’s been a pleasure to undertake parts of this project and preserve an important part of local culture.”
Metcalf Group (SA) has a long and successful history of building high quality homes, commercial buildings, retirement villages and other applications in South Australia. The Company is also a leader in shop fit-outs and renovations to properties of any scale. With a 30-year-old family owned history, the Company has a strong focus on quality, safety and environmental care in everything it does.
With the Boardwalk extended and now revitalized it’s anticipated that around 30,000 people a year will walk the full length of the 8km walkway from Marino to Hallett Cove. The public can enjoy the integration of natural timber into the environment causing little impact and preserving the beautiful landscape thanks to some careful and considerate construction.
About the author: Dan Hadley (MBA, BCOMM, IMC) is a Senior Management Consultant and Economist for JLB based in Adelaide, South Australia and works regularly with Metcalf Group (SA) to assist in best practice outcomes. His services include specialties in Quality systems, risk, strategic advisory services and economic consultation.