by John Mooney
This is an update on the attenuator repairs currently underway.
The attenuator at RBYC was installed to protect the new floating Marina approx 25 years ago. By 2025 it was evident that it had reached its “end of design life” and despite ongoing maintenance and repairs it was apparent that the structure was in danger of failure, which would leave the Marina exposed to the elements.
A firm of consulting engineers was appointed by the Club to advise on the extent of the risk and to evaluate the options available. This led to a wide range of options being explored. Upon confirmation of the risk a contractor was appointed to sleeve 5 piles which were in danger of failure. New and larger piles were driven into the seabed over the old piles and the gap filled with epoxy grout. This provided a new pile to support the structure.
Of course, as the wise man said “ for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction”, and the bearing housings would now not fit in the space available.
The advisory panel led by Brenton Smith designed, manufactured ( in the local Men’s Shed ) and are currently installing new bearings as we go to press.
It is great that the short term danger has been averted, and that there is a well-qualified team in place to address structural issues, in order to further extend the life of the attenuator.
I should personally like to thank the members of the Advisory Panel who have not only spent many hours in discussions but have also physically contributed to works on extending the life of the Attenuator.
- Andrew McCowan
- Brenton Smith
- Bryan Drummond
- Peter Strain
- Andrew Poulton.
We have also had the help of additional volunteers (thanks David Stripp) and are looking for more volunteers to assist with the ongoing maintenance.
As previously advised to members, replacement of the Attenuator is a high priority, and the Advisory Panel will soon recommence exploring various options and well as funding.
