Cunninghams Gap is one of Queensland’s most important mountain passes – a lifeline linking the Darling Downs to the Scenic Rim. When the 2019 bushfires severely destabilised, the steep volcanic terrain surrounding the Cunningham Highway, the Queensland Government initiated one of the state’s most complex reconstruction programs.
The restoration project combines large-scale slope stabilisation, rockfall protection systems and road safety measures, and carefully managed environmental works to protect the World Heritage–listed rainforest surrounding the corridor.
PCA’s Role: Delivering Geotechnical Works in Extreme Terrain
As part of this program, PCA Ground Engineering was contracted to undertake critical stabilisation across several of the corridor’s most geotechnically demanding sections. Working within steep, narrow terrain and highly variable ground conditions, the company delivered substantial upslope and downslope retaining structures to secure the highway for the long term.
PCA’s works included the construction of downslope retaining walls and upslope walls which required shotcrete, soil nails and micropiles.
Delivering Certainty in Complex Environments
PCA Ground Engineering’s involvement at Cunninghams Gap reinforces their capability in delivering technically demanding stabilisation works in environmentally sensitive, geologically complex locations.
The recovery works are jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
