Albion Park Rail Bypass Hydromulching Project
About Albion Park Rail Bypass hydromulching project
Our client Fulton Hogan specified and applied ecoDynamics’ specialist products to stabilise the steep soundwall batters and open drainage systems at Albion Park Rail Bypass. This critical work required reliable, high-performance solutions to address erosion risks, ensure rapid seed germination, and promote sustainable, long-term vegetation growth in highly variable soil conditions.
Soundwall challenges
The 1,850m soundwall presented unique challenges along its length:
- 760m section was heavily compacted with a wheel roller (as per geotechnical specifications) resulting in minimal organic matter and required tailored treatment.
- The remaining section was shaped with an excavator (that maintained higher organic content and less surface compaction) offering different growing conditions.
Our approach ensured consistent, effective erosion control and successful revegetation across these contrasting soil profiles. This ultimately supported the long-term stability and environmental integration of the bypass corridor.
Product application and results
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ProGanics®/ProMatrix® – Soundwall Application
Objective
Establish effective groundcover and prevent soil erosion on steep batters.Performance
Erosion resistance: EXCELLENT
- After significant rainfall events, treated surfaces maintained integrity with minimal soil or product loss, reducing the need for rework.
Germination results
- Uncompacted areas: Fast, dense coverage achieved within 4 weeks, thanks to higher organic content and uncompressed topsoil (top 200 mm).
- Compacted areas: Patchier germination with 40–50% groundcover. Native shrubs established successfully, but overall performance was limited by low organic content and soil compaction.
Key learnings
- ProGanics® delivers strong results on steep slopes when soil is properly cultivated and enriched with organic matter.
- Compacted, low-organic soils significantly reduce performance, underscoring the critical role of thorough soil preparation for optimal outcomes.
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Flexterra® – Open Drain Application
Objective
Achieve effective erosion control and establish vegetation in open channel drains.Performance
Erosion resistance: EXCELLENT
- Flexterra® delivered superior, reliable coverage. Minor scouring observed was attributed to challenging site conditions rather than product limitations.
- Outperformed traditional methods such as standard hydromulch and jute mesh.
Germination
- Highly dependent on appropriate seed mix and consistent moisture.
- Drainage and wetland seed blends required regular irrigation to establish well.
- Grassland mixes showed satisfactory results even with intermittent rainfall.
Key learnings
- Flexterra® offered improved application control and durability over traditional solutions.
- Careful seed mix selection and proactive moisture management are essential for successful establishment in drainage and channel environments.
Outcome
ecoDynamics’ used ProGanics®, ProMatrix®, and Flexterra® that contributed to the success of the Albion Park Rail Bypass project, achieving:
- Robust erosion control in high-risk zones
- Rapid vegetation establishment in properly prepared areas
- Reduced need for maintenance and rework post-installation.
