Riverina Western Line of Lode Miner’s Memorial redevelopment
Contact point
NSW Public Works (NSWPW) provided project management for the comprehensive revitalisation of the Line of Lode Café, a project that breathes new life into one of Broken Hill's most iconic landmarks. Set on an active mining lease and perched atop a historic mullock heap, the initiative aimed to modernise and enhance the café's infrastructure, functionality, and environmental integration.
Background
The Line of Lode café is built on an active mining lease and old mullock heap (50m high pile of mining waste material) in the centre of Broken Hill.
The original building was constructed in 2000 and is an architecturally stunning building. However, the floor plan was inefficient, the building thermal performance was poor and the surrounding area looked like a mullock heap.
The project involved:
- detailed lead remediation both inside and outside the building
- significant structural alterations to open the floor plan and improve functionality
- construction of a new 800m long water infrastructure upgrade and pump station
- a new commercial kitchen and public amenities
- an extension sympathetic with the original architecture to increase dining room space
- new furniture throughout
- appealing external hard and soft landscaping suitable for the harsh Broken Hill environment.
Our role
NSWPW provided complete project management for the project from inception, design procurement/management, tendering and contract administration.
A key project success was the strict implementation of a lead remedial action plan (RAP). NSWPW developed a project specific checklist to ensure the implementation of the RAP recommendations was adhered to. This resulted in no elevated lead dust readings in the atmosphere and no elevated blood lead levels in onsite workers.
Key statistics
- Lead remediation: removal and containment of over 2,000m³ of lead-contaminated soil, ensuring a safe environment.
- Support for local economy: allocation of more than 50% of the construction contract value to local subcontractors and suppliers, bolstering the local economy.
- Infrastructure upgrades: introduction of a new air-conditioning system equipped with HEPA filters to reduce lead dust infiltration, alongside significant structural alterations to enhance the building's functionality and thermal performance.
- Water infrastructure: construction of an 800m long water infrastructure upgrade and pump station to ensure sustainable operations.
- Architectural and landscaping enhancements: an extension designed to complement the original architecture, along with new furniture and landscaping tailored to the harsh Broken Hill environment.
Outcomes
The main works were completed in March 2023. A separate commercial kitchen fit out and furniture contract is currently forecast to be completed in early 2024. It is hoped a tenant will take occupancy of the building early in 2024.
This is the first stage of a master plan for the Line of Lode precinct. Possible future stages include a replica underground mining experience, improved pedestrian connections to the Broken Hill CBD and sunrise/sunset viewing platforms.
This project ensures the ongoing viability of one of the most iconic and well-known buildings in Broken Hill.
Images courtesy of North Construction & Building, and Crown Lands