Landscape Architect: Architects of Arcadia
Builder: Venari Projects
Location: Shellharbour, NSW
Partridge is proud to have contributed structural engineering services to Yirran Muru (Many Pathways), a culturally significant interpretive playspace located in Shellharbour City Centre. The project, led by landscape architect Fiona Robbé, draws inspiration from the journey of local Aboriginal people through the Illawarra region, from the escarpment to the sea. More than 300 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and local Elders collaborated with Shellharbour City Council to inform the concept and ensure cultural authenticity in the design.
Our involvement began with the initial review and sizing of the park’s structural elements, including the elevated treehouse and associated features. As the project developed, we finalised designs for tender and construction, undertook inspections of sandstone footings, cubby house supports, and base brackets, and provided ongoing liaison with the site team to support construction progress.
Throughout construction, our engineers assessed modifications arising from on-site conditions, such as reinforcement detailing within sandstone blocks, lintel strengthening, and the addition of sandstone steps. Each phase required careful coordination between design intent and site realities to maintain both structural integrity and visual alignment with the landscape design.
Our services concluded with a final walkaround inspection and certification, confirming compliance and structural adequacy. The playspace officially opened with a smoking ceremony and performances from local Aboriginal community members, an occasion that celebrated the collaboration, craftsmanship, and cultural significance embedded in every aspect of the project.
