A Coolum Classic from Koppers Arch - The new Tanacoat coating protecting Queensland

The Boardwalk residential development at Coolum on Queensland's Sunshine Coast is one of an increasing number of lifestyle projects in Australia where the environment and holistic planning take precedence.

Separated from beautiful Marcoola Beach by sand dunes and bush reserve and only minutes away from the exclusive Hyatt Regency Coolum Resort and Mt Coolum Golf Course, the Boardwalk has been developed with minimal impact on its beach ecosystem.

Created by the Stockland property development company, it is a fully planned community with a strong emphasis on its natural surroundings. Walking and cycling trails link nature reserves, parks, barbeque areas and playgrounds, and bushland boardwalks protect the coastal vegetation from damage by beach-goers.

All boardwalk systems and recycled timber for the project were supplied by Outdoor Structures Australia (OSA) and director Ted Stubbersfield says it is one of the Gattons company's biggest projects to date. "It included the boardwalks, shelters, recycled timber totems and bollards, and special timber features with solar lighting."

Timbers used were either recycled hardwoods or sustainable harvested spotted gum. OSA's patented Deckwood and Joistwood systems were CN-oiled and Tanalith E (non-arsenic)- treated for extra protection. The piles supporting the main beach access boardwalk across wetland and sensitive vegetation are H5 treated and the boardwalk handrails have been finished with Tanacoat, a new product from Koppers Arch.

Tanacoat is a solvent-based, clear coating that enhances timber grain and protects wood against the advances of sunlight and moisture. Special UV absorbers slow weathering effects and deep penetration inhibits mould growth. Koppers Arch says Tanacoat is an appropriate product for use in environmentally sensitive areas for surface protection of exterior timber structures.

(Note: Tanacoat is not recommended for use on treated pine timber unless the altered colour finish is desired.)