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Building Flood-Resilient Infrastructure: Moddex Delivers Durable Solutions for Twentyfirst Street Bridge
- Client: ID Fab and BMD Group
- Location: South Australia
- Sector: Community/Road
- Architect/Engineer: Tonkin Consulting
- Products Used: Bridgerail BR20 and Tuffrail TR20
Project Overview
The Twentyfirst Street Bridge project marks a major milestone in the Renmark Paringa community’s recovery from the devastating 2022/23 floods. Inundated with floodwaters and closed to the public for safety reasons, the bridge’s condition highlighted the urgent need for more than just a temporary repair. A long-term, resilient solution was essential, one that would serve the community well into the future.
This priority shaped every aspect of the build, with products specifically selected for their corrosion resistance, long-term durability, and ease of installation. Consequently, Moddex was specified by Tonkin Consulting, to supply our Tuffrail Industrial Handrail System and our AS5100-compliant BridgeRail System. Engineered for performance in harsh environments, both systems offer long-lasting resilience. BridgeRail, in particular, is designed with a 100-year design life, making it an ideal choice for flood-prone areas.
A Project built by the Community, for the Community
The project also stands as a regionally significant project that placed the local community at its heart. Delivered through a strong partnership between Tonkin Consulting, BMD Group, and 12 direct local subcontractors, the project prioritised local engagement, employment, and resources wherever possible:
- 100% of Demolition Works completed by local subcontractors
- 100% of Earthworks completed using local materials and subcontractors
- 100% of Drainage Installation by local subcontractors
- 12 direct local subcontractors
- Over 20% of the Contract Value spend on local subcontractor and suppliers, valued at $1.1m
- 20,000 tonnes of materials sourced locally.
The Challenge
Once the floodwaters receded after the severe flooding in 2022, detailed engineering assessments confirmed the bridge required a full replacement. Renmark Paringa Council reviewed several design options and selected one that would improve traffic and pedestrian access, reduce water flow constraints, and offer a high level of flood resilience.
Flood events present serious challenges for infrastructure like handrails and balustrades. The sheer force of floodwaters can cause structural damage, dislodge fixings, and accelerate corrosion. Traditional materials such as timber and unprotected steel are especially vulnerable, often leading to long-term deterioration or even structural failure. A robust, durable solution was essential on the new build to ensure safety and longevity.
The Moddex Solution
Moddex supplied over 70 metres of our Tuffrail TR20 system and more than 35 metres of our AS5100-compliant BridgeRail system, both engineered to perform in harsh, high-risk environments.
The BridgeRail system, in particular, was specified by Tonkin for its proven reliability and compliance with AS5100 standards. Designed for durability in extreme conditions, it offers exceptional corrosion resistance, a 100-year design life, and a smart prefabricated design that allows for safer, faster installation on-site.
As Mayor Peter Hunter stated, it was, “extremely important to get the project right and ensure it would withstand future flooding”- a challenge perfectly aligned with Moddex’s expertise. Our systems are developed to maintain structural integrity in even the most challenging conditions.
The Outcome
The project was successfully completed by May 2025. Before the bridge officially opened to traffic, community members were invited to walk across the new structure, a gesture that reflected just how meaningful the project was for the community. “We thought it was really important to give people the opportunity to walk over the structure before it is open to traffic as it has been such a significant asset for so many within our community,” said Peter Hunter, Renmark Paringa Mayor. Moddex are proud to have been involved in such a significant project for the community.
