During the devastating floods in early 2011, where the Brisbane River broke its bank in several locations, the foundation of a power line pylon was severely damaged at Karalee. Following repairs with boulders, the site needed urgent protection against future flood erosion.
Using the design developed by Veticon Consulting, Vetiver soil bioengineering technology was applied to protect the site against erosion. Vetiver System hedgerows were designed to address the needs to protect against future high velocity water flows and severe flooding from the Brisbane River.
Through the application of Vetiver hedgerows, the batters were fully stabilised after 2 summer growth periods. The Vetiver served to fortify and reinforce the soil shear strength, which ensured long-term protection, including against several successive floods over the following years.