Hammerhead Crane

Sydney’s Hammerhead Crane was constructed between 1944 and 1951 to service and maintain warships.

Located at the Garden Island naval base, the giant cantilever crane had been part of the Sydney skyline for more than 60 years.

It was progressively removed in 2014. As a significant element of Sydney Harbour’s industrial past, archival recording was a condition of consent.

Before and during the dismantling, GML coordinated detailed recording of the structure using a range of technologies, including innovative 3D scanning.

Recognising the potential of emerging technologies, GML worked with RPS Group to capture the crane using 3D laser scanning. Accurate to the millimetre, the resulting models can be viewed from multiple angles, allowing future researchers to understand the crane’s construction, operation and spatial qualities in ways traditional 2D mapping cannot.

As part of the project, GML also worked with Hyperion Design to undertake targeted photography, video and time-lapse recording before and during the crane’s removal.

service

Built Heritage
3D rendering of Hammerhead Crane showing hook trolley and block.

Partners

RPS Group
Hyperion Design

Deliverables
  • Archival Recording
Services
  • Built Heritage
Client
  • Brookfield Johnsons Control (Department of Defence)
Location
  • Sydney, NSW
Back to Projects