Client:        Maritime & Ports Authority of Fiji
Location:    Lautoka, Fiji
Contract:    Construct Only
Currency:    April 2005

Project Summary

The construction of a 154 m long, 48 m wide extension to an existing 35 year old wharf in Lautoka, Fiji. The project was one of the largest undertaken in Fiji and doubles the berthing capacity at this very busy port.

Construction consisted of steel piles and a cast insitu suspended concrete deck, cathodic protection and electrical services. The concrete deck was supported on 800 mm diameter piles some 38 m in length. Raker piles were installed to resist lateral loads and were 900 mm in diameter and over 45 m in length.

The Challenge

Many challenges were faced on the project from difficult pile driving conditions to a lack of a skilled local workforce and local suppliers. We were required to import large amounts of materials and machinery into Fiji.

The Solution

The MacDow project team adapted to these challenges by changing work methodologies. For example, the suspended deck was constructed utilising a bespoke “sliding formwork” designed by our own Structural Engineering department. We also put in place on-the-job training schemes to upskill staff.
The project team utilised local labour where available and also brought in specialist welders from our fabrication operation in Batam, Indonesia when project specifications demanded specialist skills not available on the island.

Key to Success

A skilled team supplemented by resources from our other projects overseas ensured we met programme demands and delivered the project to the client’s satisfaction.

Project Stats

• 154 m x 48 m extension of wharf
• 9,500 m of steel tube driven
• 6700 m3 of concrete poured
• 7 day cycle concrete pours
• 24 hour operation for periods