Catholic Schools Broken Bay

PROJECT INFORMATION

JetBlack Plumbers was engaged to rectify ongoing water pooling issues within a swale drain corridor by improving stormwater flow, upgrading pump-out systems, and waterproofing the surrounding void area. The works were designed to ensure reliable water movement away from critical pathways and eliminate the risk of flooding during heavy rainfall.

OBJECTIVES & PRIORITIES

Quality
Workmanship

Compliance

Safety
Management

Minimal
Disruption

SCOPE OF WORKS

Full on-site risk assessment and safety planning
Removal of existing 225mm half-moon swale pipework
Concrete cutting and jackhammering to install a new 450mm² pump-out pit at the low point of the corridor
Removal and replacement of the existing pit, with the installation of two new 450mm Qube X Mini pump-out pits discharging to the nearby stormwater system
Excavation and cleaning of the void area
Connection of new pump-out pits to existing stormwater infrastructure
Application of one coat of primer followed by three coats of waterproofing to the 50sqm void area
Supply and installation of 30m of 225mm pipework, laid on a custom-formed sand and cement bed to ensure adequate fall and flow to both pits
Waterproof sealing of all joints using soudagum
Coordination with an electrician to install a new power point for the additional pump system
Final system testing and commissioning

CHALLENGES

The primary challenge involved addressing poor drainage in a high-risk water collection zone where pooling had previously caused disruption and long-term moisture concerns. The existing system lacked adequate fall and had only one functioning pump-out pit, which caused backups during periods of high rainfall.

Additionally, the confined nature of the void area, combined with structural concrete and waterproofing needs, required careful sequencing of trades and strict adherence to safety and environmental protocols.

OUR SOLUTION

JetBlack Plumbers delivered a tailored drainage upgrade that balanced civil, plumbing, and waterproofing expertise. The solution involved re-engineering the fall of the swale pipework by adjusting bedding levels and positioning the midpoint between the new dual pump-out pits for optimal water flow.

Waterproofing was prioritised to preserve the longevity of the infrastructure and protect adjacent buildings from water ingress. Careful coordination with our electrical partner ensured the new pump-out pit was powered safely and efficiently.

RESULTS

The project was successfully delivered with a fully regraded swale system, dual pump-out functionality, and a fully sealed and waterproofed void area.

Key outcomes: