The Scenic Rim is an arc of mountainous terrain reaching altitudes of up to 1300 metres, situated south and west of Brisbane. This region experiences above-average lightning activity, with a Ground Flash Density of up to four ground strikes per square kilometre per year, compared to Queenslandโs average of approximately two. Binna Burra Lodge, located on the Lamington plateau section of the Scenic Rim, is on top of a prominent spur bordered by steep drop-offs on three sides, resulting in significant electric field intensification.
In the early 1990s, Professor Mat Darveniza, then Australiaโs leading lightning expert from the University of Queensland, assessed the site and noted inadequate lightning protection measures. He recommended improvements for: the tall trees, lodge building, and campsite shelters, with particular emphasis on the considerable risk posed by several large trees surrounding the lodge. When struck by lightning, these trees can channel current down their centres, vaporising internal moisture into steam and potentially causing explosive disintegration. Such incidents may project large pieces of timber at high velocity, creating hazards for people and structures; an example of this occurred south of Sydney in February 2025, resulting in a fatality.
The trees of concern surround the lodge and are positioned close to the escarpment edge. While lightning rods had previously been installed, all have since failed due to standard attachment methods being unable to accommodate the outward growth of tree trunks. A new attachment method has therefore been developed to address this challenge. It uses a galvanised steel pipe as the downconductor instead of copper, and a horizontal threaded rod, positioned radially to the tree, as the means of attachment. This design allows for indefinite trunk expansion without compromising the reliability of the attachment point.
This paper details the technical aspects of this innovative solution, which aims to provide robust and cost-effective lightning protection with the emphasis on long-term integrity. It also outlines key differences between this approach and the guidelines set forth in AS1768. Additionally, a practical industry case study is presented, highlighting the critical role of geology in achieving effective earth grounding for lightning protection systems.