Refinery Dr,
Pyrmont

Government painting

Project Value: $150K
Duration: 4 weeks
Status: Complete

Delivered in a four-week window to meet end-of-financial-year government requirements, this project involved extensive surface preparation and protective coating application across multiple public assets throughout the Pyrmont precinct.

Project Overview

This project involved extensive surface preparation and the application of protective industrial coating systems across multiple government-owned assets in the Pyrmont precinct. Approximately 700 metres of metal fencing surrounding public parks and pathways were treated after years of exposure to salt air from the harbour had caused visible rust and mill scale. The process required detailed sanding between coats, followed by primer, topcoat and a final protective layer to ensure a smooth, consistent and durable finish across every surface.

The objective was to deliver long-term durability under heavy use while meeting strict timelines and compliance requirements. By improving presentation and protection simultaneously, the works helped extend the service life of key government assets and maintain the standard expected in a high-profile public setting.

Access Methods

As all work was completed at ground level, no specialised access equipment was required for this project. However, sequencing was carefully planned to accommodate pedestrian movement and minimise public disruption.

Challenges

Working across a public precinct meant coordination was already a priority, but the scale and location added extra complexity. Assets were spread throughout busy pedestrian areas, requiring meticulous planning and constant coordination to keep everything moving safely.

With the project running to a strict deadline, progress checks were non-negotiable. Each stage had to meet government protocols, safety requirements and reporting expectations without compromising quality or public access.

“Meeting a strict government deadline while maintaining safety and quality was a challenge our team delivered on seamlessly.”

Project Sentiment

The client was pleased with both the outcome and delivery of the project, noting the significant improvement in presentation across the precinct. Feedback also highlighted the professionalism of the Dukes team in completing the works efficiently within the government’s tight timeframe.

Communication

While communication is the foundation of every project, it was especially important on this government job given how widely distributed the works were geographically. Weekly formal updates, supported by daily phone and email communication, kept our client informed and ensured alignment at every milestone.

Close coordination with government facility teams was also essential to sequence works in a way that prioritised and maintained safety.

Coating Systems & Materials

We applied Dulux Durebild STE applied as a high-performance primer to protect steel surfaces and finished with Dulux Weathermax MIO to provide maximum corrosion resistance and long-term durability.

This coating system was specifically selected as it will stand up to the harsh environmental exposure and protect the asset.

Outcome

The project was completed within the government’s tight end-of-financial-year timeframe, while also meeting all quality and compliance expectations. The successful delivery achieved all key objectives while extending the service life of critical public infrastructure. The result is a visibly improved, longer-lasting asset that reflects the standards expected in high-profile environments.

Project Gallery

Frequently Asked Questions

What did the CBRE, The Rocks project involve?

The project included full external cleaning, minor render repairs, and a complete repainting of the building’s façade. The work was carried out while the building remained fully occupied, so tenant and pedestrian impact was carefully managed.

How long did the project take and what was its value?

The project took about six weeks to complete and was valued at approximately AUD 100,000.

What methods did you use to access and paint the building exterior?

Because the property is in a heritage-constrained precinct with restricted access, rope access techniques were used instead of traditional scaffolding. This allowed for efficient coating and repairs with minimal disruption to surrounding businesses and pedestrians.

What coating system was used, and why?

The coating applied was the Dulux Acratex Acrashield Matt system. This was chosen for its durability, weather resistance, and suitability for high-end commercial façades—ideal for a prime CBD location exposed to coastal and urban environmental conditions.

What was the outcome of the project?

The building façade was refreshed with a high-quality, uniform finish. The work was delivered safely and efficiently, with minimal disruption to tenants and passers-by. The renewed appearance supports the building’s commercial appeal and helps attract new tenants in a post-COVID market.