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Satori Resorts Secure $1.6 Billion Projects SATORI Resorts today announced it had purchased John Holland Pty Ltd’s interests in a number of Far North Queensland coastal projects with an end value of more than $1.6 billion.
sustainable developments in Australia. “John Holland decided it wanted to focus on its core role of construction engineering rather than property development,” Mr Sparshott said.
The projects include the $1.4 billion Ella Bay sustainable master-planned community project, one hour south of Cairns and just north of Innisfail; the $108 million Little Cove project, also at Ella Bay; and the $104 million Mission Beach development at Mission Beach, 30 minutes south of Innisfail and two hours north of Townsville.
“Having worked so closely on these projects, I could see the immense potential with sustainable communities so the decision was made to buy out John Holland’s project interests.“No other company in Australia will have sustainable communities of this scale as its sole focus.”
Both the Little Cove and Mission Beach projects have already received development approval. A decision on the DA for Ella Bay is expected shortly. Satori Resorts major shareholders include Warren Witt of the Queensland-based Witt Property Group - which had been a joint-venture partner with John Holland on the projects - and businessman Rod Lamb, who is an Executive Director with Sedgman Ltd. Former John Holland Executive Manager Project Development Paul Sparshott has been appointed Chief Executive of Satori Resorts. Mr Sparshott said Ella Bay, Little Cove and Mission Beach would set the benchmark for
Mr Sparshott said Satori’s experience with the Far North Queensland projects would see it positioned as Australia’s leading developer of sustainable communities. “We believe there are significant opportunities for similar sustainable communities across Australia. We will have the skills to take advantage of those opportunities,” he said. “Local councils and state governments, like all Australians, are increasingly environmentally aware and are expecting developers to reflect this in their projects. “This extends beyond just increasing water recycling, rainwater tanks, solar power and design covenants to innovative solutions to maximise sustainability which is what Satori can achieve.”
PROJECT DETAILS Ella Bay A master-planned community situated on 450ha bordered on three sides by national park and featuring an international golf course and country club, multiple luxury resorts with day spas, as well as a vibrant cosmopolitan community village with restaurants, cafes, retail precinct, serviced offices, public swimming lagoon, and international school as part of an education precinct. Just over one hours drive south of Cairns International Airport, the development has about 3km of frontage overlooking the Coral Sea and offers access to the Great Barrier Reef. Little Cove Set on about 65ha and comprises a luxury 30-villa boutique eco-resort with 12 beachfront villas, nine lagoon villas and nine rainforest villas, together with a day spa and restaurant. There are also 70 residential lots attached to the resort. Mission Beach An eco-resort set within about 20ha of protected rainforest. Stage one of the 135 apartment resort comprises a total of 64 apartments, set across a series of three-storey buildings.
Why You Need to Innovate
By Professor Keith Hampson CEO, CRC for Construction Innovation Innovation is about trying something new, that is, implementing new technologies and new practices in order to improve productivity or other project outcomes related to safety, quality and the environment, for example.
Gwelo Launches Litchfield Apartments Darwin’s CBD is set for further residential expansion with the launch of a major new apartment complex by locally based construction company, Gwelo Developments. The prestigious 10 level Litchfield Apartments building will provide a mix of commercial/ retail spaces and residential apartments. Gwelo Developments has purchased a site fronting Litchfield Street for the medium high rise development which will comprise three levels of parking, a ground level commercial/retail precinct and seven levels of residential units. The Litchfield Apartment building will accommodate 42 units, with six units on each level consisting of 5 x 2 bedrooms and 1 x 1 bedroom units. City and harbour views will be on offer from a majority of the units. All apartments will be luxuriously appointed and feature fully equiped kitchens with stone bench tops, quality appliances, air-conditioning, intercom, security parking and electronic key access. Three units on level four have enormous balconies, well suited for enjoying Darwin’s tropical climate while the two bedroom apartments will each feature an ensuite, all units feature walk-in-robe, open living and dining and large balconies. Gwelo Developments managing director Even Lynne said the Litchfield development, which backs onto the Pandanas project in Knuckey Street,
would compliment the Pandanas Apartments tower by offering extra residential accommodation, convenient access to cafes, restaurants and shopping. “The Litchfield Apartment project is the next instalment of a thriving new urban community,” Mr Lynne said. Litchfield Street will have a cosmopolitan atmosphere with retail, café and dining when both Pandanas Apartments and Litchfield Apartments are complete. The starting price for a one bedroom Litchfield Apartment is $330,000 and $409,000 for a two bedroom apartment. The Litchfield Apartments project is the next stage in Gwelo Developments’ vision for the re-development of the Darwin CBD and follows strong demand for apartments in the Pandanas development. Construction of the Litchfield Apartments development commenced last month and the project is set for completion next year. Gwelo Sales and Marketing manager, Mary Hamilton said she expected a high level of enquiry following the launch of the project. “Buying off the plan can save you money in a growing economy,” she said. Further information about the Litchfield Apartments release is available from Mary Hamilton at Gwelo’s Pandanas Sales office at 1/26 Knuckey Street, Darwin, Tel: 1300 766 090 or email pandanas@ gwelodevelopments.com.au
It does not have to be world-first innovation – simply moving from a business-as-usual mode of operating to adopting best practice, or even better practice, is innovative. While there have been significant improvements, the construction industry has one of the lowest innovation rates of any industry in Australia. It ranks third last across all Australian industries in terms of the proportion of business expenditure on innovation and second last in terms of the proportion of income generated from innovation (ABS 8158.0, 2006). The good news is that the situation is improving, with recent ABS statistics showing that the number of construction firms innovating rose 4% between 2002 and 2004. This is good news because the construction sector has strong multiplier linkages with important industries in the economy, particularly transport and mining. Using macroeconomic modelling techniques, the impact on GDP of increased productivity in different sectors can be forecast. For example, if a one-off sustained 10% improvement in productivity is assumed in each service sector in the Australian economy, and the impact on GDP is compared, the construction sector will have the biggest average annual impact, at 3% over 20 years (2000-2020). Taking a ‘sector’ view, to include the cluster of companies representing the construction sector such as architects, consultants and materials/components suppliers and facilities management, the industry’s contribution to GDP is up to 20%. That is, one in every five dollars generated in the Australian economy is generated by the construction sector. Construction Innovation research activities have played a key role in contributing to these rising innovation rates. See more information at: construction-innovation.info/index.php?id=1010
Seachange Needed in Cairns Construction Sector
By Wegland Lau Chief Operating Officer Capital Globe Australia Increased development activity, on-going repairs from the devastating tropical cyclone Cyclone Larry and lucrative employment opportunities in the booming mining sector have all contributed to a dire shortage of construction contractors in Far North Queensland – limiting both development and investment opportunities in the region. Building approvals in Cairns continue to increase as the region experiences a surge in development activity – yet as the demand for the building industry continues to escalate, the supply of tradespeople is dwindling. According to Herron Todd White, building approvals in Cairns are at their highest in more than 10 years, with more than 2,100 residential dwellings expected to be approved in 2006-2007 and some $163 million of commercial property expected to be approved in the same period. This represents an increase of almost 65 per cent when compared to the previous year. The Cairns market has always been considered counter-cyclical and did not experience the “GST boom” that other States in Australia did around 2000. At that time the Cairns property market was in a slump – leading many construction workers to relocate seeking greener pastures and capitalising on the property booms in other locations such as Sydney. Coupled with this, Australia’s mining sector is now at its peak with employment figures from the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations revealing growth of more than 68 per cent in the sector from 2002 to 2007. For further information contact: Karen Gampenov or Natalie Chisholm The PR Partnership t. 02 8249-8188 Karen Gampenov m. 0411-795-13
Construction Industry Moves on Safety Levels A voluntary Code of Practice (VCOP) developed by the Australian building and construction industry is to be adopted by the industry after a period of consultation and development. With on average one death per week, the construction industry has the highest death rate of any industry in Australia. Chairman of the Engineers of Australia Taskforce who commissioned the Safer Construction Project, Bill Wild (also Chief Operating Officer for Leighton Holdings) explained that the VCOP had been developed to reduce this high death rate. “It’s voluntary rather than mandatory,” Wild was quoted as saying, “designed to integrate with OH&S into strategic decision making by owners, clients, designers and constructions in order to reduce workplace injuries within the construction industry.” Funding for the project is coming from a variety of industry sources including; the
Australian Contractors Association, Property Council of Australia, Royal Australian Institute of Architects, Association of Consulting Engineers Australia, Australian Procurement and Construction Council, Master Builders Australia, and the Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner. Wild was keen to point out that the project requires the conviction of the industry to make it work. Currently the VCOP is being circulated to key groups within the industry as part of a three-month consultation project – the hope is that it will provide a guide for developing policy and initiatives in this area. The feedback obtained will, in the future shape everything to do with the industry from procurement, design, construction, and commissioning. More information is available on the Construction innovation website. www.construction-innovation.info.com.au
Is it a Case of One Step Forward and Two Steps Back? Safety is never cut and dried. In Victoria the Master Builders Association has sought an exemption from tough new OH&S regulations to be implemented by the Victorian Government which would bring the state up to national standards. The new laws will require all projects over $250,000 to adhere to the same set of rules with regards to OH&S, inductions, site safety, coordination plans, and safe work practices. The Executive Director of the MBA in Victoria, Brian Welch, has accused the State Government of ignoring proposed amendments to the new laws and suggests that the new laws could seriously damage small building businesses as they struggle to cope with the anticipated cost of compliance. Additionally, he suggests the affordability of housing in the state would be damaged by adding anything between $10,000 to nearly $40,000 per project. The Victorian Government has rejected these claims and points out that the new laws will be in line with other states in Australia. The Government also adds that developers are keen on the changes, saying that Bovis Lend Lease
and Mirvac have both shown strong support for the new laws. Following this, the Unions have called for stricter OH&S laws across the country. The ACTU recently launched a charter for minimum OH&S standards that places the onus of responsibility firmly on the employers. The new ACTU charter seeks to implement a number of aspects of the NSW OH&S laws, which reputedly are the toughest OH&S laws in the country. Meanwhile, NSW is in the process of reducing some of its hard line laws to cut red tape. All parties, it seems, have their hearts in the right place, and it is clear that a national approach to OH&S would be a significant benefit to businesses, unions, and workers. Perhaps it is simply a matter of everyone sitting down, realising what OH&S is all about, and thinking more of the safety of those who work in industry. Is it really acceptable to have the levels of death and injury that currently run in the construction industry? The confusion that currently exists will do no more than undermine the existing standards of work safety.
Deutsche Bank Place Gets the Gong The innovative Bovis Lend Lease building Deutsche Bank Place, featured in a previous issue of ANCR, has won the Property Council of Australia’s Rider hunt Award for 2007. The development, quoted by Robert Harley in the financial Review as introducing ‘a new level of design to the city’s towers’ won the award for overall success of the project, and not just its design.
project innovations within the industry. The new endeavour will be known as Lend Lease Ventures (LLV) and with $200 million in its start up kitty it is sure to make an impact. Focusing on two distinct areas, Corporate Ventures will attempt to promote innovations from within the company and its developments, and Venture Capital will look for advantageous positioning within current and emerging markets.
CONSTRUCTION INNOVATION Does Size Matter?
Dr Karen Manley Innovation Analyst, Leader of the BRITE Project of the CRC for Construction Innovation, Brisbane, Australia
Still with Lend Lease, the company plans to launch a new business based on the success of its recent
Bond and Mirvac Join Forces on Education Bond University and Mirvac have joined forces to create the first tertiary programme of study aimed at incorporating sustainable development initiatives into a modern curriculum. The ‘Bond University Mirvac School of Sustainable Development,’ which began its programmes at the beginning of the year, will fully integrate urban planning and architectural disciplines with practical issues of technology, financial viability and societal expectations.
The school is also the first in Australia to recognise that sustainable development issues are integral to the process of urban planning and design. Undergraduate and postgraduate courses are accredited by the Australian Institute of Builders. A number of other national and international courses cover subjects ranging from project management to property development, construction management, and quantity surveying.
Recently released data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics on construction innovation reveals high growth rates, but who is driving this growth? Chart 1 shows that business size affects innovation activity. Chart : Percentage of businesses innovating, by industry, by employment size, 00 and 00 . 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% 100 or more persons
OneSteel Magnetises China The imaginatively named ‘Project Magnet’ is a $385 Million plan by OneSteel to convert the Whyalla Steelworks from production of steel from haematite iron ore, to production from magnetite ore. In doing so, the plan will free an excess 30 million tonnes of haematite ore for sale over the next ten years. Already the project has achieved a significant milestone with
the confirmation of its first long term customer, Rizhao Steel - a Shandong (east China coastal province) based steel mill. Rizhao Steel has signed an agreement to take 6 million tonnes of iron ore. The CEO of Onesteel, Geoff Plumber, was delighted with the agreement and complimented BHP Billiton for their assistance as OneSteel’s ore export marketing managers.
Abigroup Goes Back to University and Wins Abigroup has been awarded the contract for the development of the University of Sydney’s new Campus 2010 Redevelopment Program. The $58 Million project is the largest infrastructure contract the 156 year old University has ever undertaken. Consisting of a library, admin and new student facilities, including a footbridge to connect the Darlington and Camperdown Campuses, the development will extend over seven levels and is designed by award-winning Melbourne architect John Wardle. Design work has been completed and construction is due to
start immediately. Abigroup has also won the prestigious Master Builder’s Association safety award for projects over $50 Million. The team working on the Mater Hospital in Newcastle won the award based on the site safety plan, safety record, auditing of subcontractors, and commitment to safety from all levels of the site organisation. Works included the redevelopment of the Mater Hospital, a 96 bed mental health facility, and an expansion to cancer radiation therapy facilities.
20-99 persons
Construction Industry
5-19 persons
All Industries
Source: Dr Karen Manley, CRC for Construction Innovation, based on ABS ( 00 ) Cat. 8 8.0 Note: The construction industry comprises general and trade contractors in the civil and building sectors.
For both the construction industry and all-industries, the data show that innovation rates increase with number of employees. This is due to larger businesses having more resources available for innovation, including employee ideas. The data also show that large contractors are more innovative than the average for all Australian large businesses. This is quite an achievement and suggests that large businesses can play a useful role in increasing innovation levels by sharing ideas and by helping to upskill subcontractors. Small contractors have a similar innovation rate to the Australian average. The most marked difference is for middle-sized businesses, where construction industry performance is markedly less than the Australian average. Medium-sized businesses lack the intimacy and flexibility of smaller businesses and the extensive resource-base of larger businesses, which makes effective relationship management more difficult.
Continuing Professional Development
Patrick Weaver Managing Director Mosaic Project Services Pty. Ltd. Industry in Australia has evolved to expect ‘experienced practitioners’ to be readily available in the job market without any real need for training or skills development. This contrasts with a conversation I had recently with the Director of a specialist Pakistani engineering business who talked of the 30 plus staff members his business sponsored each year to attend Universities in the USA and Europe to study for their Masters and PhD Degrees. If this represents trends generally, I suggest it will not be too long before we see firms from Malaysia, India and other major players in the international construction business setting up shop in Australia and competing based on the professional capabilities of their staff as much as price. This has already occurred in the IT and Telecommunication industries to name two; the construction industry is not immune from globalisation. An Australian skills development model needs to recognise our more flexible employment regime, focusing on two elements. The first is training that is immediately relevant to the workplace (ensuring a relatively quick pay-back); the second is the large number of mid-level managers in their 40s and 50s who have had little formal training since joining our industry. The solution is to develop a culture of ‘continuous professional development’ (CPD). The transition to a culture of CPD will not be easy but is essential. Some of the factors that will need to emerge include: - Employers making paid time available for short courses and skills development. - Employees developing a planned skills enhancement (career development) plan in conjunction with their employers.
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Construction Costs Rise on the Back of Higher Wages Over the last five years construction workers have been able to secure the biggest pay increases of any sector. According to a new CostWeb report, labour costs rather than building material prices explain why construction costs have outstripped inflation this decade. Over five years, average weekly earnings of construction employees have risen by 32% to an average of $1158 per week. Wages have risen though a combination of skills shortages and strong unions, but this is not just confined to tradesmen and labourers. The extraordinary growth in the higher paid managerial, professional, and associate professional component of the workforce is also to blame. This spans both the construction firms themselves as well as the subcontracting sector where employment has grown by 50% since 2000. The report’s author, Gary Emmett of Turner & Townsend, examined the increase in average weekly wages of different sectors of the economy and showed that average weekly earnings have risen more in the construction sector than any other sector, including mining. Whilst the CPI increased by 13% over five years, construction workers managed to secure a 32% increase in average weekly earnings including overtime for men and women. Going back ten years the story is quite different, with construction wages rising much less quickly in the first half of that period. This recent 5 year increase in wages corresponds with a period of rapidly escalating construction costs in most Australian cities. The report goes on to examine why employees in the construction sector have been so successful at improving their weekly earnings. One factor is
the traditional strength of the union movement in the construction sector, where up to 37% of employees are in a union. The report examines days lost to industrial disputes and shows that during this decade the construction sector has had more days lost than in any other sector. In some periods, such as March 2003 and March 2005, construction accounted for 60% of days lost to industrial disputes across the entire economy. Says Emmett, “around 9% of Australia’s workforce is employed in construction. However, only since the appointment of the Australian Building and Construction Commission in October 2005 has the number of days lost fallen to a similar proportion.” However, perhaps most startling is the doubling of the number of employees in managerial, professional and associate professional categories working in construction since 2000. During this period, the number of tradespersons and labourers employed increased by only 25%. This group includes the foremen, project managers, engineers, architects, and cost managers, as well as environmental scientists, heritage consultants, and other new professionals. They generally earn twice the weekly earnings of people in the tradesmen and labourers group. They may also work for a subcontractor, another sector whose employment has grown by 50% since 2000. This group is highly paid and will earn what the market can bear. “When we talk about increases in the cost of labour in construction, it is important to understand where the increase in labour costs has come from”, says Emmett. The report can be read at: www.costweb.com.au/news/
Perth Airport Upsized Perth Airport has announced plans for a massive $275 Million investment in its future, with the aim of extending infrastructure and capacity. Passenger growth has been increasing by 10% each year and operating revenue since 2000/01 has risen from $76.8 Million to $136.4 Million. Westralia Airports Corporation completed an enormous $770 Million refinancing project late last year, and the corporation is now poised to make significant inroads into three key areas.
The first area is in Aeronautical Infrastructure, which includes extensions to taxiways, new aerobridges, upgraded baggage handling, and terminal facilities. Secondly is in property development - including the creation of a business park, warehouses, new roads and an electrical substation. The final area is in commercial development of new retail outlets, more parking facilities, and improved rental access. Utilising their unique position in the fast growing state, the corporation pointed towards the fact that they will be providing access to 700 hectares of land, ideal for new business development.
Hire It! And Save Time, Money and Effort The Hire and Rental Industry in Action
By Phil Newby Executive Director, Elevating Work Platform Association of Australia Incorporated When specialist equipment is required for dedicated jobs, meeting equipment demand quickly and easily without huge capital outlay is often a major concern. Equipment storage and maintenance or knowing whether that piece of equipment will ever be needed again is also an issue for the construction industry. Meeting this frequent and widely variable industry need professionally is the business of the rental industry in Australia. Represented by key industry body, the Hire and Rental Industry Association, (HRIA), the Australian rental industry operates across many industries, offering reliable, wellserviced and maintained equipment. The Smith Road Cable stay bridge that services students attending Griffith University on the Gold Coast. Above Gold Coast Psychology Student, Sarah Dormer, is one of many bridge users.
Cable-Stayed Bridge Takes Students to Higher Learning A steel cable-stayed pedestrian bridge has been installed over busy Smith Street between the north and south precincts of Griffith University’s Gold Coast campus because it was seen as more practical than a traditional concrete structure. Project Supervisor for Abigroup Constructions, Martyn Osborn, said it was fabricated by Beenleigh Steel with a $3.5M price tag and a total weight of around 260 tonnes. Excavation work was carried out by Newport, and concrete abutments were poured before a 350 tonne crane had to be brought in to erect the bridge in five sections. The first two segments were put into place while sections three and four were bolted together
on one side of Smith Street. A full night time road closure was required while the tower was lowered into place and the sections were bolted together. Abigroup’s Safety Officer, Duncan Davenport, kept an eye on proceedings. John Steel from SKM’s Sydney office was the designer. An Abigroup spokesman said a cablestayed bridge has advantages over a standard suspension bridge that included speed of construction and lower cost, since anchorages are not necessary. There are no massive cables, as with suspension bridges, making cable repair or replacement much easier.
Because business hiring is fully tax deductible, hiring offers a desirably cost-effective and beneficial option backed by guaranteed efficiency and reliability. Additionally, with no capital outlay, builders can have immediate access to a huge range of modern equipment. New equipment can be trialled, via hiring, on the job for days on end without any capital outlay. Peak demands can be met by the rental industry which can offer and supply more equipment when business is at its busiest. Hiring also offers savings on: • labour costs by supplying the right equipment for the right job; • problems with equipment/machinery registration; • insurance; • depreciation; and • repairs and maintenance. Hiring returns control to the construction industry by offering options and allowing builders to plan when equipment is required and when it’s not. To increase end user accessibility, the HRIA website Continued on page 12
More Proactive Approach to Cost Management Required in Australia: Australian versus UK Model
By David Kelly Managing Director Gleeds Australia The Australian property market could learn a lot from the UK’s grasp of the Quantity Surveying industry. One of the most undervalued attributes of the cost management profession is imagination. Yet in reality cost managers are required to plan for changing circumstances and predict various scenarios that may occur during a project’s lifecycle. The primary difference between the Australian and UK markets is that UK recognises this. Compared with UK, Australia’s Quantity Surveying industry is relatively small and unsophisticated. There are around 3,500 Quantity Surveyors in Australia compared with 30,000 in UK. The role of the Quantity Surveyor here is seen as very technical and Quantity Surveyors are engaged on an ad-hoc basis as ‘number crunchers’ rather than as commercial managers. The UK takes a more proactive approach to Quantity Surveying. UK developers and building owners recognise that finance and cost management forms the cornerstone of every project. They perceive Quantity Surveyors as commercial managers and consult them at every stage of a project - from inception to completion and beyond. UK Quantity Surveyors also offer a much broader level of services such as the preparation of business cases and other financial consulting services. There is a clear need for Australian Quantity Surveying firms to increase their service offering and take a more
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Cost Estimating a Risky Business Case Study of McKenzie & Anor v Miller 2006 NSWCA 377 The recent case of McKenzie & Anor v Miller [2006] NSWCA 377 has highlighted several issues associated with the provision of estimates and the management of construction contracts for architects, quantity surveyors and project managers - and their clients. The case involved an architect (McKenzie) who was engaged by Miller (the client) to provide refurbishment works to his home. McKenzie provided an estimate of $202,000 plus $5,000 for ‘unknowns’ and suggested works be procured on the basis of a ‘Cost-Plus’ contract. However, the final cost of works totalled $305,220 with a series of abandoned works which, if included, would have bought the total cost to $ 338,820. The court found the architect liable because he acted negligently and breeched s42 of the Fair Trading Act 1987 (NSW) as well as the contract of engagement. This leaves plenty of scope for future actions against design and management professionals and it is imperative that professionals fully understand their obligations – particularly under a ‘cost-plus’ contract arrangement which is unpredictable in nature. Lessons learned for the architects, quantity surveyors and project managers:
• A realistic budget needs to be established from the outset of a project and agreed to by all parties; • A project’s financial constraints are just as important as functional requirements. If a client is vague on his/her budget, it is the architect’s responsibility to set a limit that the client is happy with. The architect should take ownership of the budget and manage works to that limit; • The risks associated with different types of procurement need to be understood from an administrative and financial point of view – and these need to be clearly explained to clients in the same way a doctor would explain the implications of a surgical procedure; • Appropriate cost management measures need to be implemented to continually monitor the costs associated with a project. This should include the history of what has been committed/expended as well as a constant review of likely costs in the future whether actual or predicted; and • Adequate contingencies based on an assessment of the risks should be allowed for. Lessons learned for clients: • Be very clear about what the financial constraints on a project are from the outset and ensure the architect takes ownership of them; • Understand the risks associated with the delivery of a project; and • Don’t embark on a project if the risks and budgets have not been confirmed or explained.
Victoria Gives Green Light to Wind Farm and Reduces Black Balloons In a move that indicates the renewable snowball is well and truly rolling, the Victorian Government has given its blessing for a new 64-turbine wind farm to be located west of Melbourne. With an expected completed capacity of 160MW (enough energy to power 73,000 homes), the wind farm will be located at Mt Mercer, 30km south of Ballarat. The planning minister explained that the project was both economically and environmentally beneficial to Victoria. “The Mount Mercer wind farm will be a win for the environment, a win
for jobs, and a win for sustainable development in rural and regional Victoria,” he said. “We expect this project alone to save more than 390,000 tonnes of CO2 each year, that’s a million black balloons that would otherwise be floating in the atmosphere.” The “black balloons” refer to a VIV Government advertising campaign that depicts black green house gas emissions as black balloons. The wind farm is anticipated to be operational within eighteen months and would create 120 construction jobs during its creation.
Real Flame - The Heat is On Real Flame are leaders in gas fireplace technology and have been at the forefront of technical advancement in flue design for many years. This leading edge design was utilised in Bruce Henderson Architects prestigious Royal Domain Tower. The Real Flame Power Flue system was the answer to Principal Architect Graham Morrison’s desire to incorporate an open fronted gas fireplace concept throughout the Royal Domain Towers 133 apartments and penthouses at 368 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne. High rise construction renders standard flue applications totally impossible and Royal Domain was no exception. Wind shear, flue size and length, correct ventilation balance and aesthetics were all issues that had to be overcome to ensure correct operation of the fires and a finish that did not detract from the architectural integrity of the building. The development of the Power Flue by the Real Flame designers in Melbourne is the defining answer for all high rise gas fire place applications. The Power Flue enables fires to be installed in apartments and penthouses without the need to
terminate the flues at roof level. Each fire has a Power Flue interlocked with a mechanical fresh air intake system to ensure ventilation standards are met. The Power Flue also allows the flue to terminate horizontally on the face of a building up to 13 lineal meters from the actual fire, allowing designers more flexibility in locating fires within residential apartments and commercial spaces. The fires used in the Royal Domain project were primarily the Heatseeker, however the Simplicity, PureVision, Double Vision and Elegance were also incorporated in penthouse fit outs. Real Flame Pty Ltd t. 03 9428 4443
Caffeine Fix? Many companies across Australia, which constantly acquire the newest computer equipment or the latest communication technology, are often lacking a very simple thing: a decent cup of coffee. Sadly, the options specific to offices, seem limited: running backwards and forwards to the nearest café, or buy an expensive “automated” machine, that is onerous to clean, unreliable and does not produce a decent cup of coffee. Now, there is a solution – a commercial pod system, designed, built and supported for offices. Over 60% of European offices use commercial pod systems and now Executive Coffee Systems are promoting these systems for use in Australian offices. The systems use individually nitrogen-sealed espresso shots, for absolute freshness and flavour. The equipment uses the traditional café system process i.e. high temperature/high pressure/infusion/extraction. They make a café style coffee- but for a fraction of the price! Using the machine is simple- just place your choice of coffee pod (there are hundreds to choose from) in the machine, press a button and a fresh espresso steams into the cup. Hot foaming milk is just as
Measuring Industry Reform: The Next Big Challenge
By Neil Marshall Chairman Australian Construction Industry Forum The new industry reform agenda unveiled at the recent ACIF 2007 Industry Leaders Conference presents the Australian Construction Industry with significant challenges and opportunities. According to the ACIF Chair, Neil Marshall, industry must address these challenges if it is to continue as a world leader and improve its productivity and competitiveness. Delegates to the recent 2007 ACIF Industry Leaders Conference heard key-note speakers from the USA, UK, Canada and Australia outline industry benchmarking initiatives and Australia’s new industry reform agenda. • Stephen Ratcliffe, CEO of the UK Construction Federation outlined the status of the 2012 targets set by the Strategic Forum for Cooperation A key objective of these targets is to get clients and supply chain partners to behave in such a way as to showcase British construction at its very best. • Edd Gibson, Professor in the Department of Civic Construction and Environmental Engineering at the University of Alabama, reported on the use of front end planning benchmarking metrics by Construction Industry Institute members.
easy- just flip a switch and the machine steams/ heats the milk automatically producing café quality foam. For café quality coffee without the expense or problems associated with other office coffee systems, there is now a solution – commercial pod systems. Finally, there is an easy, fresh solution for in-office coffee. Executive Coffee Systems PO Box 292 Jannali NSW 2226 p. 02 9545 2455
• George Gritziotis, Director-General, Canadian Construction Sector Council, spoke about the Canadian Skills Forecasting model and how it was used by industry. • Max Smith, Deputy Director-General of the Queensland Department of Public Works and Peter Verwer, CEO of the Property Council of Australia outlined the philosophy behind a national initiative for joint public/private benchmarking KPI’s for the Australian industry and how the KPI’s are expected to work in practice Continued on page 12 11
Property Tops Global Risks
By Warren Cornor Advisory Services Senior Security Consultant DAVIS LANGDON As global threats have become serious at a local level, crime threats to property have become a serious business risk for Australian property owners. Many local authorities are now requiring crime prevention strategies to be part of all major project designs submitted for their approval, so it’s become imperative for companies to be proactive in incorporating safety and security at all stages of development. Security risk and threat assessments need to become standard in building design, so working with architects, designers, security system suppliers and the police, from design to completion, is critical. We all become familiar with where we work and the systems we use. What feels safe in the daylight may feel very different at night, so assessing different times of the day, in different lighting conditions, is imperative. We live in a world now where security issues make the news every day and we are affected in just about everything that we do. Safety and security is often about perception. It makes commercial sense: if you feel safe in a space then that’s good for business. The skill needed to make the connection between security strategies and design is fairly rare but increasingly in demand. Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) uses techniques to overlay normal security systems and services to reduce criminal opportunity and foster desirable social interaction in and around premises. Visit the Davis Langdon website at: www.davislangdon.com or contact Warren Cornor p.02 9956 8822 e.wcornor@davislangdon.com.au for more information.
Is Wood that Good? A recent CSIRO study into the abilities of environmental assessment tools/models, and their input into construction material selection, has found that many limit the specifiers ability to select and judge the suitability of materials with regard to sustainable construction. The study, funded by the Forest and Wood Products Research and Development Corporation (FWPRDC), found that many assessment tools failed to incorporate or had marginal bearing that reflected environmental attributes of a variety of materials. This appeared to disadvantage many products and materials, including wood.
The research involved 27 different assessment models, and it was found that these models provided little reason for assessors to choose wood over other products that might have increased environmental impact in the long term. Wood is a renewable source material, its manufacture creates a low impact on the environment, it is easy to dispose of and recycle, and can be used for carbon storage in long term wooden structures. The FWPRDC, in its evaluation of the research, stated that the assessment tools surveyed did not take these factors into account and, as a result, provided a diminished choice to assessors.
New Underpass Unveiled Adelaide’s $550 Million Northern Expressway Project route was revealed late last year. one of the states’ largest infrastructure undertakings, the new link is designed to smooth transport from the Stuart Highway to Adelaide and Port Adelaide and is scheduled for completion in 2011. “There simply hasn’t been a road in South Australia like that built since World War II,” says state transport minister Patrick Conlon. Construction is due to commence in 2008, with the project jointly funded by the Federal and State Governments
under AusLink. Features of the project include: upgrading of signals at Waterloo Road corner, new traffic signals, a bridge over railway and Taylor Road, access to/exit from expressway, and overpasses at Angle Vale Road and Two Wells Road. The new expressway is expected to cut travel times from Gawler and Port Adelaide by 20 minutes, and will carry an expected load of 37,000 vehicles per day. Up to 79 privately held properties will be affected by the proposed route, including 39 houses.
Hire It! And save time, money and effort The Hire and Rental Industry in action Continued from page 9 features a comprehensive database and search engine capable of locating specific equipment to the nearest rental supplier location. With over 700 members and valued at $2.8bn annually (Australian Bureau of Statistics Survey 2004), the HRIA industry covers a range of
equipment, from general plant hire, DIY hire, portable buildings, construction, access and events. For more information about the HRIA, call 1800 01 5166 or visit: www.hireandrental.com.au
Measuring Industry Reform: The Next Big Challenge Continued from page 11
“The Australian construction industry leads the world in many areas”, said the Neil Marshall. “However productivity growth has lagged in recent decades and the industry also suffers from a high level of deaths and injuries.” “The KPIs have been developed as a joint public/ private sector initiative. They will be launched by the Australian Procurement and Construction
Council and the Australian Construction Industry Forum in Melbourne on 13 September. “In addition to safety and productivity the KPIs will address economic security and rewards, skills and training, and eco-efficiency.” “Progress towards the KPI’s will be reviewed at the 2008 ACIF Industry Leaders conference.”
Out of this world F
ounded in 1995, Planet Plumbing Pty Ltd is an Australian-owned private company with offices in Sydney, Brisbane, Perth & Victoria. Commencing as a one-man outfit the company now hosts many dedicated tradespeople that assist Planet in becoming one of the Australia’s most preferred plumbing contractors. With extensive experience in all aspects of plumbing, infrastructure, mechanical plumbing, fire services, maintenance, and asset management, Planet provides plumbing services to a range of clients including Grocon, Abigroup, Mirvac, Amalgamated, AW Edwards, Built, Hutchinson, St Hilliers and Probuild to name a few, on commercial, retail, industrial, and residential projects. The company is currently involved in the hydraulic design, development and construction of some of Australia’s most prestigious projects. Planet has gained an enviable reputation as a trusted expert and leader in the installation of hydraulic services. Priding themselves on being “not just tradesmen, but craftsmen”,
Planet Plumbing have responded to the demand from clients for innovation and effective construction. Offering design integrity the company deliver a high standard of customer service in order to bring projects to successful fruition according to budgets and tight schedules. In order to guarantee the standards for which they are known, Planet Plumbing are rigorous in maintaining quality assurance according to AS/ NZS ISO 9001:2000 certification and undergo an annual audit to ensure the standards remain (Certification No. 8303). Planet Plumbing seeks to develop long-term relationships with clients and focuses on providing services that exceed expectations. Planet’s team of professionals have years of plumbing experience gained from its employees working with different disciplines within Australia, Europe and Papua New Guinea, drawing on the experience gained from a simple house to military installations. In order to assist in the development of projects the company works closely with clients throughout
the construction process from initial consultation to completion. Using the latest software and inhouse printing station to facilitate the drawing and designing of plumbing schemes, Planet Plumbing are able to respond to the design challenges of any project, up-dating designs accordingly. The company maintains a further advantage by owning and operating their own plant and excavation equipment, which enables the construction budget to be carefully managed. The company’s achievements are not just measured by its extensive portfolio but also in its satisfied clients, and it is telling that many of Planet Plumbing’s customers are repeat clients or word of mouth recommendations. Please visit our website www.planetplumbing.com.au.
Planet Plumbing 6/252-254 West St Carlton NSW 8 p. 0 0033 f. 0 00 e. planet@planetplumbing.com.au
3
Inspiring Women Honoured by the Construction Industry
Hayley Bertram - Practical Tradesperson with Professor Jim Barber
In an industry still overwhelmingly dominated by men, the achievements of an eclectic and formidable group of women honoured tonight in the 12th annual National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Awards are particularly inspiring. On the 17th August, 2007, at Zinc in Federation Square, NAWIC celebrated the outstanding work of an impressive group of women whose skills and passions are helping to shape everything from the way we build houses and casinos our methods for delivering water to parched rural communities and reducing the environmental footprint of our freeways. NAWIC Victorian President Kristin Lynch of Johnstaff Projects said, “With women comprising only 13% of the construction industry, it’s important for them to be supported, mentored and recognised by people committed to increasing female representation.” “The NAWIC Awards recognise excellence across the industry and connect people facing similar
Heather Benbow - Young Achiever with Tania Or
challenges. Past winners have used their Awards as a catalyst for achieving bigger and better things in their careers. Many have gone on to start their own businesses, inspired by this highly regarded vote of confidence from their peers. “The prestigious 2007 NAWIC Awards recognised outstanding achievements in design, environmental sustainability, trades, study, development and delivery, young achievement and also includes a Crystal Vision Award which recognises outstanding contribution to the industry overall.” This year’s winners include an environmental engineer who convinced skeptics to introduce the world’s first solar powered stretch of freeway to Melbourne, a former political advisor to state Labor politicians who took up carpentry in her 30s with great success, and a highly successful interior designer with Bates Smart who led a team of architects and designers to create a stunning space within an unconventional Perth casino. The Crystal Vision Award for outstanding achievement overall is a quiet
14 NAWIC - AWARDS FOR WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION - Special Feature
achiever who created much of the infrastructure for the Sydney 2000 Olympics and rose to senior ranks in Cbus to manage a $1.3 billion development business, introduce family friendly policies and use her talent for mentoring to nurture a huge network of women and men within the construction industry. NAWIC was formed in 1995, not to pit women against men in the building and construction industry but to provide a forum to acknowledge, encourage and reward excellence amongst the trailblazing women carving out extraordinary careers in the industry. The NAWIC Awards offer women a forum for showcasing their work encourage other women to strive for extraordinary results in their chosen field. For more information on NAWIC visit the website www.nawic.com.au.
CITY OF MELBOURNE CRYSTAL VISION AWARD Fiona Dunster, Cbus BASSETT AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN DESIGN Jan Eastwood, Bates Smart
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RMIT UNIVERSITY AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT BY A PRACTISING TRADESPERSON Hayley Bertam, Holmesglen TAFE NAWIC AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT BY AN APPRENTICE TRADESPERSON Marcelle Bagu, Alphington Building Services NAWIC AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT BY A STUDENT Fiona Lloyd, Wycombe Group/Deakin University NAWIC AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN DELIVERY AND DEVELOPMENT Anthea Ross, BECA MAJOR PROJECTS VICTORIA AWARD TO A YOUNG ACHIEVER Heather Benbow, Connell Wagner
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NAWIC AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN CONSTRUCTION Michelle Zarb, Hansen Yuncken BAULDERSTONE HORNIBROOK AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY Sally Mitchell, Baulderstone Hornibrook
1. Jan Eastwood - Outstanding Acheivement in Design - with Mark Grieg 2. Michelle Zarb - Outstanding Acheivement in Construction - with Collette Burke
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3. Marcelle Bagu - Outstanding Acheivement by an Apprentice Tradeperson - with Tim Corney NAWIC - AWARDS FOR WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION - Special Feature 15
16 HASSELL - KEN MAHER - Special Feature Interview
With thirteen studios, and more than 800 employees, HASSELL is at the forefront of architecture, landscape architecture, design, and urban development in Australia and South East Asia. Responsible for numerous landmark structures, HASSELL has garnered more than 450 awards for their innovative approach to architectural design, urbanity, and the environment. Interview by Jack Sargeant. Ken Maher, chairman of HASSELL, spoke to Jack Sargeant from ANCR about the company’s history, philosophy, some of HASSELL’s signature Sydney projects, developments within the industry, and their ongoing commitment to quality, innovation and environmental awareness.
KEN MAHER Chairman of HASSELL
JS: HASSELL obviously has a link back to European modernism, and Bauhaus, I was wondering if you still see yourselves in that way. KM: In a way we do, but our application of the lessons of the Bauhaus are evolving over time, and the way it influences our work has also evolved quite a bit. The roots of the practice are in modernism, and that was a couple of generations ago. Jack McConnell and Colin Hassell formed the practice, and they were greatly influenced by European modernism of the 1930s. Then in the second generation of the practice John Morphett who had worked under Walter Gropius, carried that interest forward, and particularly focused on broadening the basis of the practice through a commitment to collaboration. Bauhaus had as its roots the idea of differing arts coming together to engage in some way, and with that influence he really broadened the base of the practice. Not only collaborating with artists, but also broad-
ening the basis of the practice into landscape architecture, urban planning, and interior design. So while we started as an architectural practice we now embrace a much wider design basis, and we are still very interested in that idea of creative collaboration, of people working together in the studio and exploring ideas. This is a dynamic thing, we still like to collaborate with artists, but the whole notion of environmental issues is starting to influence the way we’re thinking, and changing the way we might collaborate with different disciplines. We believe that the challenges of today are focused on making more sustainable cities. This means in the future we will collaborate more with environmental scientists or people with highly technical knowledge in the environmental field. I think those modernist roots are still relevant, but it’s not applied modernism as a style, it is a conceptual modernism as opposed to a stylistic modernism. That legacy is still quite strong and essential to our design thinking.
HASSELL - KEN MAHER - Special Feature Interview 17
JS: That synergy across areas appears to be the way forward. KM: It’s absolutely the way forward. It seems to me there are three interesting things happening now. One is that we are really becoming a globally much more urbanised society. It happened last year that more people were living in cities than not. The rate at which people are moving from rural areas to cities, cities are growing at about the size of London, every month. In China and India in particular and maybe even in the future South America so quite an interesting challenge is how to make good sustainable cities. Related to this is the second phenomenon, which is the rapidly emerging recognition of the impact we are having globally in the way we live on the future sustainability of our planet. Thirdly through technology, the shift in the way we are thinking about the world. The last time this happened in a significant way was probably during the Industrial Revolution. I believe the notion of the digital revolution is real. We are now thinking in new ways, we have access to new modelling tools, including predictive modelling. We can now analyse things in a way that just
wasn’t possible a generation ago. In addition to this, in our industry, the shift towards an integrated information management system is going to really change the way we do things. JS: Not just in the process of how you design and make buildings but also in terms of what you put in buildings, the notion of smart buildings. KM: Exactly. Digital technology is making possible the notion that a building is really responsive. Thirty years ago Nicholas Negroponte was talking about ‘The architecture machine’, the idea that architecture is almost a living, responsive thing. Now we are talking about the potential of bio-mimicry in buildings. I don’t know how far away we are from it but we’re actually getting much closer to it now than we have ever been. We have got the tools and also technology is changing. Materials are changing. And this brings us back to the idea of working with other creative people in other fields. Through this collaboration there’s more chance of developing our thinking in these other areas. JS: How do you think this makes your methodology different in terms of a company when designing a building,
8 HASSELL - KEN MAHER - Special Feature Interview
given the notion of collaboration and this awareness of the changes? KM: I think that if you go through a truly collaborative process of design, and this comes from a more open process, we do tend to start coming from questioning and analysing, and reacting and creating. It’s about trying to understand the basis of what we are doing. If you collaborate you are forced to do that a bit more, you’ve got to communicate, explore and engage in ideas. I think that potentially opens up the way you think about something. The shift often comes through the way people interact, an idea comes from something else, or you look at something from a different perspective, because somebody’s triggered a thought you wouldn’t otherwise have had. It can be quite hard at another level, we tend to be trained to think individually and work individually, so you have to adapt. But, at HASSELL we are absolutely committed to the view that it actually leads to interesting and unexpected results. JS: Certainly in terms of the amount of specialisation now, in designing a city, a city block, a building, there’s too much now for one person to take on.
Hassell Studio - Sydney
KM: Absolutely, I think any large building needs many minds and many hands. It’s just not possible, sometimes it is made by the creative drive of one individual or several individuals, and that’s necessary in some ways; it’s an enormously complex issue. I think what is most important is not whose idea it was but how it’s manifest. If you work towards that it can be exciting. JS: You designed the Olympic Park Railway Station, which was a radical design. KM: For this project we had a wonderful client and a great design team. In the beginning the brief envisaged an underground station, and we felt very strongly that you should feel in touch with the environment in this place of arrival at this great venue, that there should be a connection with the outside. So we explored these ideas with the client and challenged the brief, and the client saw the opportunity and the benefit of our responses. Bob Leece, the Deputy Director general of the OCA was a great advocate who had an interest in stations, and he also passionately believed that it should be something special for the site. That is an example to me that really good works don’t happen unless there’s a really good engagement and enthusiasm from the client.
To me architecture above all is experiential. In the eye of the public it’s often thought of as aesthetic, often it is reduced to how something looks, but to me this is not the essence. JS: There’s such a sense of movement and space there. Again in the North Sydney Olympic Pool there’s that sense of space. KM: Well there’s this notion of a connection or ambiguity between inside and outside. I suspect it’s an Asian notion that has been there for quite a long time. In our climate, and in the traditions of South East Asian architecture there tends to be an architecture of roofs where as, in a cold climate, in European architecture it tends to be an architecture of walls. While this has not necessarily been a conscious position in these works I think it is an influence, and this idea of the ambiguity of space between the inside and outside, and the idea of structure and light interplaying with each other
leads to interesting outcomes that are responsive to our climate and landscape. The station and the pool are very different forms of expression in a way, but each responding particularly to the site. Again those very simple, almost contextual and function observations, that are consistent with the idea of modernism as a way of thinking rather than modernism as a style - stripping back, trying to understand things, and trying to build-up from that essential understanding that arrives out of a particular set of circumstances. That’s what I find very exciting about architecture, you start at a point and you aren’t quite sure where you are going to end, it’s a journey that you navigate your way through yet guided by values and enriched by collaboration. JS: How do you view the relationship between architecture and the urban environment, the relationship between an individual building and the urban environment, because quite clearly we are in a city where parts of the urban environment are beautiful and parts haven’t been thought about that much? KM: That’s a good question, because generally speaking in the architectural thinking many of the modernist works were somewhat devoid of
HASSELL - KEN MAHER - Special Feature Interview 19
20 HASSELL - KEN MAHER - Special Feature Interview
HASSELL Studio Reception - Sydney
response to an urban context. In a sense, as a practice, at HASSELL we are interested in the idea of making the experience of urban places a more powerful and interesting one through a contextual response. Stitching together and enriching the place, rather than creating isolated objects. There’s a place for icons, for wonderful individual buildings that have nothing to do with the structure of the city, but often to me the most successful design provides some interpretation of the nature of our lives and the experience of place. The fact that at HASSELL we cross over between the disciplines of architecture and landscape architecture influences the way we seek to make a building enrich the city, go beyond the things around it, but not deny the things around it. For example at NIDA, where we sought to dramatise the relationship with Anzac Parade, bring the building out, bring its insides to reveal itself to the passing traffic while respecting the form of the street. It’s not just the obvious response, clearly there are issues of scale, and it’s also about the spirit of a place, the character that exists and can be made more powerful. To me architecture above all is experiential. In the eye of the public it’s often thought of as aesthetic, often it is reduced to how something looks, but to me this is not the essence. It is the way you experience things - public space, streets in the city, parks, gardens, or interior space - in different ways, but they are all part of a continuum of experience, so fundamentally for us, architecture is about stimulating the senses. It’s a human centred activity, hopefully about rewarding the experience of things, and you think about it in those terms, then it is equally about the design of a city or a chair. This is all part of a continuum. Architecture has all sorts of dimensions to it. The notions of space and light are pretty fundamental. With the Olympic Park Station we were trying to make the parts of it around the
platform on the ground floor solid, heavy and grounded, and the canopy light and reflective, so then you shifted from this low space up into this higher space, and you felt the transition. It seems to me this sense of experience you get as you move through it makes it successful. One of the interesting things for us in practicing now is the value of digital technology. When we explore ideas and engage in a debate about our work, we can demonstrate the ideas we are exploring very quickly using digital models. You can explain it to clients much more readily when you can look at a screen, you can help them imagine all sorts of things. That combined with the fact that you can analyse lighting levels, environmental impact, with all sorts of incredible tools makes the communication so much more effective. JS: The environmental impact of architectural design is becoming an increasingly significant consideration. How attuned to this consideration is HASSELL? KM: We are learning, and we are very committed to understanding more. As a demonstration of this HASSELL is a founding member of the Green Building Council and I sit on the board of directors. We are currently collaborating with Bovis Lend Lease on the design of the largest office building in Australia for ANZ at Docklands in Melbourne, aiming to achieve the highest current Green Star rating which has got some really significant initiatives associated with it. We are also working directly with ANZ on the workplace interior design, so we have got this wonderful opportunity to make a fusion between the design of the building and the experience of the workplace. It will be at the cutting edge of the technology with energy generation, passive design, water management, and employing solar collectors and wind turbines. The building has very large floor areas, with narrow floor plates and linear voids to allow penetration of natural
light, and will also be an interesting building in the way it sits in the city as well as in the experience within. It will be incredibly light filled and again hopefully create a sense of ambiguity between internal and external. It’s all quite exciting and I think it will be an exemplar, particularly for its scale, in Australia. I think it’s threading together ideas of how you deal with the city and how you deal with the workplace, as an integrated experience. We’re also working on a project in our Adelaide studio for SA Water, which will have a high degree of environmental innovation. So we’ve now got the opportunity of these quite large projects that will become demonstration projects, and lead the way, and attract others who are interested. This for us is the way of the future, and we are delighted to have clients with whom we can share this vision.
HASSELL Australia PR China Honk Kong SAR Thailand www.hassell.com.au
HASSELL - KEN MAHER - Special Feature Interview 21
Special Feature | Sydney
Wharf
22 NSW Special Feature - Sydney Wharf
Sydney Wharf
Luxury Apartment Living
NSW Special Feature - Sydney Wharf 23
Special Feature | Sydney Wharf
Multiplex Constructions Level , Kent Street Sydney 000 NSW p. 0 000 f. 0 00 e. media@multiplex.biz www.multiplex.biz.au
Charter Hall Group PO Box 3 North Sydney 0 NSW p. 0 8 08 000 f. 0 8 08 0 0 e. michaelw@charterhall.com.au www.charterhall.com.au
NSW Special Feature - Sydney Wharf
Stylish new addition
S
The sea water surrounding Wharves and 0 has played an innovative role in the functioning of the apartment complex, with sea water cooling being used by Multiplex for the project’s mechanical systems
Since August 2006 Multiplex Constructions has been working on the $300 million Sydney Wharf project. The development is a joint venture between an investment syndicate managed by Babcock & Brown and a wholesale development fund jointly managed by AMP Capital Investors and Charter Hall. Before construction could begin, the existing buildings, which used to house the Foxtel studios required demolition. Sheet steel piling was placed around the site and a grout wall
ydney’s Pyrmont Bay is getting a stylish new addition with the construction of 104 luxury apartments on Wharves 8 and 9. The prestigious Sydney Wharf project consists of a private marina, an 8000sqm car park and a boardwalk surrounding the apartment complex. The breathtaking view of Sydney City can be enjoyed from the apartments on Wharf 8, while Wharf 9 receives uninterrupted views across the marina.
was built to form a temporary coffer dam. Water was then pumped out of the dam and excavation of the site began. Two tower cranes were constructed to assist with the excavation and movement of materials around the site. 290 concrete piles have been installed to the columns in the basement to support and reinforce the structure, while 100 steel driven piles were installed for the new boardwalk. The development posed many challenges, due to the structure being situated over water. As Sydney Harbour is tidal and the basement is situated under the water level, the construction and development team conducted vast amounts of research to ensure the structure would endure all of the harbour’s conditions. As a consequence basement, which has space for 201 cars, was constructed as a hydro static structure. NSW Special Feature - Sydney Wharf
Sydney Wharf - under construction
The sea water surrounding Wharves 9 and 10 has played an innovative role in the functioning of the apartment complex, with sea water cooling being used by Multiplex for the project’s mechanical systems. Multiplex has over 40 years of experience in the construction industry and has been responsible for many major Australian and international projects. It has developed a reputation for quality and innovation through the ongoing success of it’s many endeavours. Sydney Wharf was no exception and Multiplex has applied it’s skill and knowledge to construct the structure. Some recent projects completed by Multiplex include the Walsh Bay Project in Sydney and the Wharf in Woolloomooloo, for which it received several awards, and the Centrelink National Support Office in the ACT. NSW Special Feature - Sydney Wharf
The design of the Sydney Wharf project has been created to pay tribute to the wharves’ rich history, while delivering a luxury living experience and positively contributing to the life of the area with public access available right around the boardwalk of the harbour front address. The development team in it’s management of the project has worked hard to ensure the vitality of the area is sustained and strengthened with the development of Sydney Wharf. As part of the project’s development, the existing marina branching off Wharves 9 & 10 was demolished to allow for the construction of the new 54-berth marina. It consists of pontoons, which are accessed by fixed gangway landings and service bollards for all vessels. A fully glazed facade, 10 metre lap pool and gymnasium will also form part of the complex. The
project is due for completion by April 2008, with the first apartment due to be finished by October 2007, which will be available for inspection by prospective residents. The superb management skills of the development team and Multiplex’s unique focus on large scale constructions, has ensured the Sydney Wharf project is running on schedule and on budget. As the development team for the joint venture, Charter Hall has driven and managed the acquisition, cost planning, programming, design and construction management processes for the project. Their highly dedicated and qualified team has deep market knowledge and risk assessment capabilities which has guaranteed that the Sydney Wharf project will be something of a landmark in one of Sydney’s most prominent areas.
Commercial divers W
hile family owned business Hope Diving Services is a relatively new company, having operated since 2004, their exceptional experience, skill, and commitment to safety has seen them thrive in their short time in action. Completing work predominantly in diving operations and marine construction, Hope Diving have 11 employees and provide services nationwide. As the majority of work completed is underwater, it requires the expertise of highly skilled professionals that work together to ensure that not only is the job done right, but the safety of all involved is never compromised. Hope Diving Services were engaged by major contractors Waterways Constructions and Multiplex to carry out detailed surveys and site assessments for the $300 million Sydney Wharf
project prior to construction. During the major construction they were contracted for underwater demolition, Brocco cutting or underwater cutting of steel, dredging and the removal of rubble and piles from the seabed. The Sydney Wharf project presented some unusual challenges, as the divers were required to work closely with the crane operators above water, some 200 metres away for the removal of underwater material. It was essential both parties had constant communication and cooperation to ensure the task was completed safely and effectively. Hope Diving has been involved in many projects around Sydney including Manly Ferry Wharf, Luna Park and most recently the Cremorne Wharf which was destroyed during the recent Syndey storms. A major part of their business
is involved in repairing wharves and jetties, and underwater welding. They have completed repair work on almost every wharf in Sydney. Hope Diving Services are running well above schedule on this high profile project, and have proved that a focus on experience, knowledge, professionalism and above all safety are important characteristics in getting the job done properly and efficiently.
Hope Diving Services Pty Ltd PO Box 3 Narellan NSW p. 0 f. 0 8 e. contact@hopediving.com.au
NSW Special Feature - Sydney Wharf
Pioneering project management S
ydney Wharf will be the final residential finger wharf development on Sydney Harbour. With one - and only one - opportunity to get it right, the aspirations for the development were very high. Due to the project’s location, the requirements of several authorities had to be met in addition to the exacting standards of the client. Ensuring that the promise to the market was delivered was a critical issue for development partners Charter Hall and Babcock and Brown. A key question for this premier development was: what constitutes quality? As part of our role as Project Director and Superintendent, McLachlan Lister’s innovative answer to achieving improved quality control was the creation of the Display Protoype Apartment Level of Completion, or DPALC. DPALC on each apartment is achieved when it has been completed to the same standard as the Prototype benchmark. Over and above a standard Practical Completion regime, this more onerous, collaborative defects minimisation process addresses all defects, not just ‘major’ ones, proactively including the ‘minor defects and omissions’ that normally create so many issues for the purchaser. Three aspects to this process were special: the PC 8 NSW Special Feature - Sydney Wharf
sequence, the ‘no compounding errors’ clause, and the Prototype Apartment. In a typical PC process, fitout is done floor by floor, locking off floors horizontally as they are completed. Due to their elongated shape, the Sydney Wharf buildings have a total of eleven lift cores. To ensure the control of access to completed areas, the project delivery team devised a sequence such that apartments were completed by lift core (vertically), and that once part of a floor was locked off, no subsequent re-entry by subcontractors was allowed unless explicitly required as part of the defects management process. The DPALC process also stipulated that defects would be managed on a progressive basis and not allowed to accumulate. This would ensure that the finishing trades were not left to mask the compounding errors of previous trades and be put in a position where they could not complete their own work to an appropriate standard of craftsmanship. Finally, prior to commencement of construction, to establish an appropriate quality benchmark and to facilitate the sales and marketing campaign, an on-site Display Gallery was constructed.
In order to manage quality control in the completed development, two of the apartments are being fast-tracked and will function as Prototypes, reflecting all the subtle design changes that have been made over the course of design development and documentation. The Contractor will retain the keys of one for the purposes of using it as a benchmark for his subcontractors, and the Client will control the other for marketing purposes. These Display Prototype Apartments will be used to establish the quality standards for all other apartments in the development. This is just one example of the practical outcomes which help clients develop and refine their business and investment strategies. McLachlan Lister has best practice procedures, methodologies and systems that are specifically designed for each project to ensure our clients see results that are technically superior and cost effective. McLachlan Lister Level Hickson Rd The Rocks NSW 000 p. 0 3 8 f. 0 3 e. maryc@mclachlanlister.com www.mclachlanlister.com
A way with Water
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stablished in 1993, Waterway Constructions have made a lasting impression along Australia’s eastern seaboard through a portfolio of construction and maintenance projects. With offices in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, Waterway Constructions specialise in the construction maintenance and restoration of maritime structures including the 6/7 Walsh Bay submerged car park in Sydney, Brisbane’s Portside Wharf and Melbourne’s Station Pier upgrade. Waterway Constructions also undertake ongoing maintenance works on behalf of the NSW Maritime Authority, Sydney Ports Corporation, Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, Port of Melbourne Corporation and VicUrban.
Waterway Constructions Level , 0 Victoria Road Rozelle NSW 03 PO Box 0 Annandale NSW 038 p. 0 f. 0 m. 0 00 e. m.hiley@waterway.com.au
Waterway Constructions employ almost 100 staff and are committed to training across the organisation including four current apprentices and two construction/engineering cadets. Significantly, Waterway Constructions are one of few companies certified to Australian and international standards for quality, safety and environmental management.
Over the past eight years Waterway Constructions has received 8 awards for a variety of construction and restoration projects in due recognition of the company’s commitment to excellence. At Sydney Wharf, Pyrmont, the company are constructing 12,000 sq metres of public boardwalk supported on 75 pre-cast concrete headstocks and 251 steel tube piles protected with HDPE sleeves. The work also included the installation of a 370m sheetpile cofferdam to enable the construction of a basement carpark using a piling rig with telescopic leader capable of handling the 19m AZ sheetpiles. Imported from Germany the Bauer RTG enabled rapid and accurate installation of the temporary sheet piling and was the first of its size to be used in Australia. The work scope also included the extraction of over 1500 timber and steel piles together with the removal of the entire timber substructure and 2,500m3 of reinforced concrete deck all of which was recycled. The Sydney Wharf project is an excellent example of Waterway Constructions innovative approach to maritime construction and attainment of tight program objectives. NSW Special Feature - Sydney Wharf
Mark Jacobs, Charter Hall and John Wynne, Urbis.
Expert advisors
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or a project as complicated and intricate as the $300 million Sydney Wharf project, detailed planning is required to guarantee the development runs smoothly with little fuss. Urbis were engaged by Charter Hall to take on the planning services for Wharves 8 & 9, including reviewing the master plan and providing management of all the expert consultants to gain the approval for development. Urbis started on the project in early 2004, collaborating with agencies to determine potential construction, structural and environmental issues , then relaying this to the architects to respond. The fact that the Sydney Wharf project is completed over water, and the nature of the development meant that in depth negotiations with authorities were required.
Urbis Level 3 Kent Street Sydney NSW 000 p. 0 8 33 00 f. 0 8 33 e. info@urbis.com.au
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The prestige and expense of this high profile development indicates the high level of expectation that comes from the Sydney Wharf project. John Wynne, Director at Urbis and his team had to ensure that quality and design was the best it could possibly be due to the high level of scrutiny placed on it. The result is the transformation of Wharves 8 & 9 to a state of the art residential and commercial development in one of Sydney city’s premier locations.
Urbis have over 40 years of experience behind them. They are also currently involved in the new Star City development in Sydney, and advise on many major projects throughout Australia. Urbis work closely with local and federal Government departments, evaluating the success of Government programmes, and the development of cities. Founded in 1965, they now have over 280 employees and provide specialist consulting services to Australia, the Middle East, and Asia. Urbis worked very closely with developers Charter Hall on The Sydney Wharf project. As a result the task is running perfectly on schedule and is a shining example of the efficiency and professionalism of Urbis in providing accurate, detailed planning solutions
Exciting excavation
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t’s hard to keep your mind on the job with the spectacular Sydney city skyline and harbour as your workplace, but the Delta Group team have managed it! These views set the backdrop for Delta Group’s recent demolition and excavation works, as part of the multimillion dollar redevelopment of Sydney Wharf into luxury residential apartments. Delta Group’s expertise in the demolition and excavation of major developments were invaluable for this technically challenging project, especially as the demolition site was suspended above water. The team approached the intricate project in stages, first removing the former Foxtel Studios from the wharf and using excavators to take away debris. This cleared the way for the careful and detailed demolition of the wharf itself, from which aged and beautifully weathered timbers were removed for recycling.
Delta Group Plummer St Port Melbourne VIC 3 0 800 33 8 www.deltagroup.com.au Offices also in NSW, QLD, ACT and WA
wall to form a coffer dam, from which water was pumped prior to excavation. Despite the on-site challenges, Delta Group once again cemented their dominance in the demolition and civil works industry by delivering their part of the project to schedule. Since 1974 Delta Group has forged a reputation for delivering all client requirements on time and budget, on major projects such as the landmark Melbourne Cricket Ground redevelopment, and Stadium Australia in Sydney. With the latest equipment and quality and OH&S accreditation, Delta Group can offer clients a complete works package, from demolition through to civil works and commercial landscaping. Delta Group also actively recycles 95% of materials from demolition sites and can supply salvaged metal, steel, beautiful old timbers in a variety of species, and Envirocrete.
A planned underground car park for the luxury apartments then had to be excavated, again made challenging due to its proximity to the harbour. The highly experienced Delta Group team overcame this problem by constructing a grout NSW Special Feature - Sydney Wharf
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Special Feature | Taronga
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NSW Special Feature - Taronga Zoo
Zoo
Taronga Zoo Great Southern Oceans Exhibit
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Special Feature | Taronga Zoo
Home away from home The success of the works undertaken by Reed Constructions Australia is indicative of the company’s dedication to positive enduring solutions. 34
NSW Special Feature - Taronga Zoo
Reed Constructions Level 3, McLaren Street North Sydney NSW 0 0 p. 0 03 f. 0 88 www.reedgroup.com.au
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ydney’s Taronga Zoo Great Southern Oceans exhibit is an ambitious $41 million project to provide a state of the art home for the zoo’s penguins, seals and the Australian Marine Mammal Research Centre. Spread over 1 hectare of south facing harbour foreshore within the existing zoo grounds – the project consists of a 900 seat theatre (replacing the old 1970’s seal theatre) and six separate aquatic areas divided into the shoreline pool, performance pool, a habitat pool, encounter pool, leopard seal pool, and a pool for the zoo’s resident penguins. Also located within the area, but on a level below the pools are a research facility, offices for marine biologists, and the heart of the exhibit – the six plant rooms that house the ‘Life Support Systems’. Hidden from the public’s view these plant rooms contain a complex array of filters, pumps, ventilation, protein skimmers, ozone generators, and water chemistry control systems – designed to ensure that the sea mammals and humans working in the exhibit remain healthy, visible, and clean. Reed Constructions were well equipped to undertake a challenging project of this size. They have successfully completed refurbishment works for Taronga’s Koala Habitat a number of years previously, and the company’s extensive experience in the construction of waste treatment, reservoirs and water treatment facilities across Australia provided the ideal background for the creation of the pools and the associated highly complex infrastructure. The project was challenging not only due to its technical nature and the creation of the habitat areas –consideration for nearby residents was also taken into account during demolition of the existing structures, and the continued operations of the Zoo itself required careful coordination to ensure there were no disruptions. Other issues that impacted on the project included the preservation of the heritage listed old seal theatre façade (which now forms the entrance to the new theatre) and the conservation of the historic Port Jackson Fig trees within the site area.
Access for all machinery was via a 300m single track road with no room for trucks to turn. Reed Constructions went to great lengths regarding the appropriate selection of machinery for the project to ensure the most efficient use of space and time. They also created a suspended concrete slab to provide manoeuvring room for the trucks, which facilitated the effective excavation of 13,000m³ of soil and completion of stage 1 six weeks ahead of schedule. The size, variety, and nature of the pools provided additional challenges for the team from Reed Constructions. The Leopard Seal pool is 5m deep and 30m long and clever engineering has allowed the incorporation of walkways over the pool as well as extensive underwater viewing areas – the penguin pool includes a 100m long sandy beach that mimics their natural habitat. Special care was taken during both the design and construction phases of the pools to ensure a design with minimum joints and therefore minimum points from which leakage could occur. To ensure the longevity of performance of water-retaining structures, Reed Constructions engaged concrete technology specialists Mahaffey & Associates, and in conjunction with Boral Concrete, developed a specific ‘autogenous healing concrete’. Characteristics of this concrete, along with the benefit of controlled curing of the in situ concrete, should see these structures performing well beyond their original design life. The success of the works undertaken by Reed Constructions Australia is indicative of the company’s dedication to positive enduring solutions. Future generations of Australian and overseas visitors will benefit immeasurably from the enquiring and inventive approach adopted by Reed Constructions Australia to their work. The completed exhibit has ensured that learning about the fascinating wildlife that abounds in the Great Southern Oceans can now be undertaken in a facility that is quite simply one of the best in the world – both for the residents and the visitors. NSW Special Feature - Taronga Zoo
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Leopard Seal Pool - Taronga Zoo
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NSW Special Feature - Taronga Zoo
All the right steps
Nextep Miyama 3 Hobart St Riverstone NSW p. 0 838 3 f. 0 838 3 3 e. candrews@nextep.net.au www.nextep.net.au
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extep are specialists in Fibre Reinforced Plastic (FRP) structural products, and represent the leading edge in construction materials. Users of FRP products benefit, as they are light weight, durable, and extremely corrosion resistant. This was especially important for the Taronga Zoo project, due to its close proximity to salt water.
The position of Taronga Zoo leaves it open to a vast array of climates and conditions. Nextep’s FRP products were used because of their superior advantages over climate change and their minimal deformation. The products are also maintenance free and exceptionally strong, which was of important due to the frequent use the structures will receive after the projects completion.
The Taronga Zoo Project includes the construction of a Marine life exhibit for the accommodation and viewing of various marine animals and birds. Nextep manufactured and installed the access covers and ladders for these wet areas, and also completed the elevated platforms and access bridge.
Nextep designed the products for the Taronga Zoo Project over an 8 month period, and then installed them over a 4 month period. The expertise and in depth planning by Nextep ensured there were no issues when installing the structures.
The ladders and platforms used on the project were assembled from FRP pultruded sections, polypropylene brackets, and polyamide resin bolts and nuts. The advantage FRP ladders and platforms have over traditional metallic products is their significantly lighter weight, which makes for easier manoeuvrability and access to the site which is positioned on the side of a hill. The rungs of the ladders were specifically designed for safety and to offer maximum slip resistance.
Nextep has been providing FRP services to Australia since 2000. Their enormous success during this short time has seen them expand to provide products internationally. They regularly provide structural services to Sydney Water. Nextep designs and supplies the next generation in structural products, with a strong resistance to the harshest of chemicals. In many environments the anti corrosion qualities of their FRP products exceed those of stainless steel.
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The icing on the cake
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he Taronga Zoo project is a themed exhibit showcasing various marine animals and birds of the Southern Ocean. To bring the exhibit to life, Reed Constructions Australia engaged art design company Mothers Art to design and build an interactive immersion environment for the new site. Mothers Art created up to 40 different components across the site, including interpretive signage, environments for animal habitats, intricate sculptures, environmental graphics, sound chambers, scenic walkways, and interactive environments.
Mothers Art 7 Raleigh St Spotswood VIC 3015 p. 03 9399 1444 f. 03 9399 1396 e. ianb@mothersart.com.au www.mothersart.com.au
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NSW Special Feature - Taronga Zoo
In order to ensure the designs not only looked great, but were safe, Mothers Art followed a comprehensive design process. Visual concepts were put forward and documented to establish the most visually enhancing designs. Samples were then taken and discussed with Taronga zoo before construction of the components began. A detailed planning and design system was essential in establishing the most immersive and interesting environment for each location on site. Mothers Art has stringent measures in place to guarantee their work is of the highest quality
and safety for not only the public, but also for the animals inside the exhibit, who have a tendency to chew things. In keeping with world benchmarks, Mothers Art has completed thorough research into using polymers in marine environments, and actively employs the use of anti corrosion materials Mothers Art has been excelling in art design for 25 years. Starting in television special effects, the company’s continued success saw them expand into museums, zoos, aquariums, and almost anything that requires an exciting, thriving environment. They are the premiere art design company in Australia and one of the most important in the industry, due to their ability to turn even the most unusual of ideas into a living attraction. Just a few of their many completed projects include the The Australian National Museum in Canberra, Australian War Memorial, Werribee Zoo, and Melbourne Aquarium. They created the sculptures and sound & lighting shows for the Melbourne Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony, which was the largest sculptural project in the southern hemisphere. Mothers Art operates nationwide and employs 45 staff.
Masters of fibreglass M
aster Glass Industries Pty Ltd (MGI) has been the leading manufacturer and designer of moulded fibreglass products since 1968. The Company established and maintains its reputation by providing consistent high quality results for their clients. The company’s customer base is varied and includes the hospitality industry, major fast food outlets, hotels, motels, schools, sporting venues, and petrol stations. MGI also manufactures components for the mining, building and refrigeration industries. The diverse customer range is reflected in the equally diverse range of products the company produces – from furniture to refuse bins, air conditioning panels, fire hose enclosures, train components and capsules for theme park rides to name a few. MGI were the suppliers of all fibreglass products for the Taronga Zoo Project. This included the internal walls of the themed viewing area, steel framing, viewing panels and bulkhead framing. Working with the developers and architects, MGI
used a combination of expertise, advanced CAD design, and engineering knowledge to help create the one-off specific pattern and moulding required for the new exhibit. In house manufacturing and quality control enabled MGI to produce the required product efficiently and within cost and time constraints. As MGI customers’ needs have changed so has the company’s range. In addition to a vast assortment of fibreglass products, MGI also fabricate a wide range of products in steel, timber veneers, laminated plastics and most natural stones. Additionally MGI also provide expert shop fitting services. Master Glass Industries were founding members of the Plastics Institute of Australia (Fiberglass division) and are proud members of the Composites Australia Institute. The company’s association with these institutes and others allows them to keep up with advancements and changes within the industry. This involvement and a willingness to embrace new technologies, combined with the company’s considerable experience, enable
MGI to offer customers their expertise and advice with complete confidence. For nearly 40 years, MGI has consistently achieved high levels of customer satisfaction –a source of great pride for the management and staff. The Taronga Zoo project provided an ideal opportunity to demonstrate how this satisfaction is achieved – through the quality of the company’s products, service, communication and dedication to the ideal result for their clients. Naturally Master Glass Industries is delighted to have been involved with the successful project. Master Glass Industries Wordie Place Padstow NSW 300 p. 0 0 0 f. 0 08 e. glenn@masterglass.com.au
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Fasten your seat bolts
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ll structures require fastening of some form and WDS are experts in the field. Established in 1983, WDS has a long record servicing the Australian construction industry. A supplier of quality fixing systems from manufacturers both locally and abroad, WDS assists its clients with installation processes and helps solve the many connection challenges. Their experience and expertise has seen WDS provide product solutions for many civil and commercial projects including the Airport Link Tunnel, Lismore Pipeline Project, Parramatta Rail Link, Lane Cove Tunnel, Sydney Olympic Stadium, World Square, Sydney GPO and Acer Arena. WDS stocks a broad range of construction anchoring, bolting, drilling and fastening products. They pride themselves on their ability to source specified products even if it means having them specially manufactured – like the specialised stainless steel and structural high tensile bolt product required by Reed Constructions for the Lismore Pipeline Project. As fastener specialists their team of field representatives work closely with their clients through the various stages of planning and construction.
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NSW Special Feature - Taronga Zoo
Not willing to remain complacent WDS are constantly seeking new and innovative products and systems to assist clients in achieving greater on-site productivity. Recent additions to their product portfolio include a range of stainless steel security fixings, stainless steel hand rail and glass mounting systems; unique hydraulic expanding cement for patching, anchoring and repairing concrete and masonry; and a new product for remedial wall tying. WDS’s ability to respond quickly to their clients’ needs has been a major contributor to their success and led specifically to the supply of various fastening solutions for the Great Southern Ocean Exhibit including the bolts for anchoring the spectator seating. WDS are proud to be associated with Reed Constructions and the Great Southern Ocean Exhibit at Taronga Park Zoo. The WDS Group 3 The Horsley Drive Wetheril Park NSW p. 0 8 88 8000 f. 0 e. sales@wds.com.au
People power
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onstructing the new Great Southern Ocean Exhibit at Taronga Zoo was no easy feat, and the project required skilled professionals available at short notice who were able to complete the difficult tasks efficiently and safely. Christies People were engaged by Reed Constructions to provide short term labour hire for the project. Their flexible nature gave them the ability to quickly provide skilled workers during peak periods and decrease the amount of workers when demand for labourers dropped. Christies People worked with Reed Constructions during the entire development period.
Christies People Unit F5, 1-15 Barr St Balmain NSW 0 p. 0 8 0 0 f. 0 8 0 0 e. info@christiespeople.com.au www.christiespeople.com.au
Christies People’s strict selection processes for candidates, and their extensive industry knowledge, has given them the cutting edge over many other recruitment agencies. The company attributes it’s success to their ongoing support of all their candidates, and to their commitment to constantly improve their quality of service and business practices, which has in turn given them dominance in labour hire for the construction industry.
The organisation has been providing labour hire services since 1997 and has actively sought out and developed long term working relationships with many of the construction industry’s leading companies. One of the strongest relationships developed has been with Reed Constructions, with whom Christies People has worked with on many projects, including Manly Wharf and Concord Hospital. The high reputation both companies have gained through their time working together created a huge demand from contractors to work on the Taronga Zoo Project and forced Christies People to turn eager professionals away. Christies People works extensively throughout NSW with offices in Sydney, Brisbane, and Townsville. The organisation continues to adopt innovative and creative ideas to update services and evolve with the ever changing construction industry. They consistently strive to be the best in providing labour solutions for clients and a great working environment for candidates.
NSW Special Feature - Taronga Zoo
Sika Australia Elizabeth St Wetherill Park NSW p. 300 33 8 f. 0 0 e. au.marketing@au.sika.com
Sealing the deal Sika Australia is one of the leading providers of specialist construction chemicals and chemical technology – including sealants and industrial adhesives in Australia
NSW Special Feature - Taronga Zoo
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significant aspect of Sydney’s Taronga Zoo Great Southern Oceans Exhibit was quite naturally the reliable and effective construction of containment areas for the 2500m³ of water required to create the six unique habitats and viewing areas. Sika Australia was engaged by Reed Constructions to provide consultation and appropriate sealants from their product range for both this and other aspects of the project.
the provision of suitable sealants for the seal pool that were easy to apply, durable, and importantly able to withstand the high concentration of chlorine required during super-chlorination of the pool associated with general maintenance cleaning and flushing processes.
Sika is an independent Swiss company founded almost 100 years ago. Today Sika has subsidiaries operating around the world including Australia. The Australian operations began in the 1970’s and the company has grown over the ensuing years. Sika Australia is one of the leading providers of specialist construction chemicals and chemical technology – including sealants and industrial adhesives in Australia.
Sika Australia provided the architects and engineers with a number of options. However due to the predicted levels of chlorination it was decided that Sikasil® WS-305 would provide the solution for sealing underwater joints. The product is a chlorine resistant 1component silicone sealant that can withstand levels of 2ppm chlorine. The pool surfaces were treated with Sikagard®-62 a chemically resistant 2-component epoxy coating that once again was deemed resistant to the predicted chlorine levels.
Sika Australia was involved with a number of different areas within the project. One area was
The solution to the seal pool sealant was the result of close collaboration between Sika
Australia, Reed Constructions and the project architects, Jackson Teece Chesterman & Willis. This form of consultative communication is considered by Sika Australia to be integral to their operations. Clear and informative discussion and expert technical advice are one of the hallmarks of Sika Australia’s approach to their work. Another area of the project that Sika Australia was able to provide assistance with was the provision of a suitable foot-trafficable sealant for the expansion joints situated within the sandstone coloured concrete walkways that leads around the exhibit and surrounds. Sikaflex®PRO is a sandstone pigmented sealant that was colour matched perfectly to the colour of the concrete paths. However Sika Australia suggested it was not durable enough to be used in a high traffic area such as the walkways. A solution was the minimisation of the walkway expansion joints to approx 5mm. This reduced
width, with the inclusion of a recession enabled the effective use of Sikaflex®-PRO by shielding it from high foot-traffic volume. Sika Australia’s areas of operation are as diverse as its product range. Currently the company is involved in numerous repair & construction projects in the water industry such as Sewerage Treatment Plants and Water Treatment Plants. They are also heavily involved in construction/ remediation of various commercial apartment projects and the carbon fibre structural strengthening of concrete slabs and elements on building projects along with any number of other endeavours. However, their involvement of the Taronga Zoo Great Southern Oceans Exhibit will surely stand out as a significant highlight that demonstrates not only the versatility of their products, but also the adaptability of their team in seeking solutions. NSW Special Feature - Taronga Zoo
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Performance Pool - Taronga Zoo
NSW Special Feature - Taronga Zoo
NSW Special Feature - Taronga Zoo
Special Feature |
Palermo
World class charm Consisting of luxury residential apartments, and 3 retail suites the development will also include a 14-metre outdoor pool, gymnasium, and extensive landscaping.
NSW Special Feature - Palermo
Southern Cross Constructions 135 - 153 New South Head Rd Edgecliff NSW 0 p. 0 3 3 f. 0 3 3 00 e. scc@southerncrossgroup.net www.southerncrossgroup.net
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outhern Cross Constructions (SCC) has once again excelled in their desire to achieve the very highest of standards within the construction industry. The innovative Palermo Apartments project located in the Homebush Waterfront precinct (one of Sydney’s most progressive growth areas) is an illustrative example of what can be achieved through consultation, coordination, and collaboration. The company’s core ethos of providing a happy, safe, and productive environment for its employees, sub contractors, and on site trades has resulted once more in the quality of project that their reputation has been built upon. Designed and constructed with the future in mind, the Palermo incorporates the very latest in ‘Green’ technology, including rainwater harvesting, passive solar enhancements, and the use of low emission and environmentally sound construction methods and materials. The project has been committed to safety and responsible development since the outset and this has resulted in exceptional levels of communication between SCC, stakeholders, and contractors. Being their largest project to date, SCC have demonstrated that their unique work ethic and passion for high quality construction and development can easily translate to any scale of project, and it is perhaps this passion that has seen the development due for completion in mid 2007, well ahead of schedule.
Consisting of 245 luxury residential apartments, and 3 retail suites the development will also include a 14-metre outdoor pool, gymnasium, and extensive landscaping. Founded on driven concrete piles, with the transfer at the level 3 podium the structure supports four individual buildings. Buildings height ranges from five to eight stories. Bearing in mind Sydney’s (and most of the countries) issues with water supply, the surrounds have been designed with Australian natives and drought resistant flora. In addition, the balcony taps, WC’s and washing machines are connected to the WRAMS recycled water system in Homebush alongwith irrigation being connected to a 20,000 litre rainwater tank with run-off collected from the roofs. Southern Cross Constructions are dedicated to quality in all aspects of their operations. Since 1986, they have built their reputation on over 200 projects with a combined value of over $700 million. Extensive attention has been payed to ensuring rigorous industry best practice at all levels of their company from management right through to product selection and trades. Being the flagship company of Southern Cross Project Group, which also includes SX Projects and Southern Cross Constructions Pty Ltd; SCC has set industry benchmarks with their OH&S protocols and training.
NSW Special Feature - Palermo
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The guiding light T
he Palermo project has been designed with the quality, elegance, and comfort befitting a premier residential address in one of Sydney’s most progressive suburbs. Integral to the desired vision of the development, and often overlooked when successfully completed, is the choice, selection and installation of the many thousands of light fittings and fixtures within the complex. To this end, Southern Cross Constructions (SCC) engaged the services of Project Lighting Australia (PLA) to ensure this facet of the development was undertaken professionally and efficiently.
PLA are specialists in the area of large-scale project lighting supply. Comprehensive industry experience enables them to provide consultation, product selection, competitive pricing, and a transparent, thorough, and safe schedule
for their works. On the Palermo project, they delivered over 2000 fixtures, experience gained on similar large-scale projects, including the adjacent Breakfast Point Precinct, ensured they were able to do this well within specified time and budget requirements. Involved on site for 12-months, Project Lighting provided an extensive variety of fixtures from incandescent oyster wall lights, to fluoro, back lighting, and exterior lighting. Using quality products sourced at very competitive prices they fitted out all 245 apartments and the required common areas. Extensive collaboration with their suppliers, the developers, and the relevant trades ensured that the project progressed smoothly without undue delays, careful scheduling of delivery was an integral aspect of this process.
Project Lighting Australia pride themselves on thier customer service and over the years they have made a name for themselves by meeting, and more often than not exceeding, their clients expectations. They are dedicated to excellence and their involvement on Palermo is a clear illustration of this dedication in action. Project Lighting Australia Unit 28/17-21 Henderson St Turrella NSW 0 p. 0 f. 0 8 e. info@projectlightingaustralia.com.au www.projectlightingaustralia.com.au
P R O J E C T L I G H T I N G AUSTRALIA
NSW Special Feature - Palermo
Future cool Being a flagship project for Southern Cross Constructions it was imperative that every aspect of the project met with the developer’s stringent requirements for safety, cost competitiveness, and environmental footprint
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he prestigious Palermo Development in the progressive Sydney suburb of Homebush is a good example of how modern development coexists with sound principles in environmental management, cost effective operations, and high quality results. Due for completion in mid 2007, the project has already set many benchmarks within the construction industry for excellence. Being a flagship project for Southern Cross Constructions it was imperative that every aspect of the project met with the developer’s stringent requirements for safety, cost competitiveness, and environmental footprint. A company with equally high expectations, Advanced Air Conditioning Australia Pty Ltd were engaged by the developers after a thorough and comprehensive tender. More than simply an air conditioning company, Advanced Air
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Conditioning set their own very high standards with regards to safety, social responsibility, and excellence in service and product. “Although we operate a wide range of services, from private and domestic right through to large scale commercial projects such as this,” Andrew Souvaliotis from Advanced Air Conditioning said, “The principles are still the same, dedication to quality and excellence, without detracting from cost effective and reliable operation.” Advanced Air Conditioning operates a comprehensive service from initial consultation and design, right through to completion turnover and on going maintenance. Their advanced in-house design facilities enable them to produce mechanical ventilation systems for a broad range of applications, from home, office or factory, through to commercial applications such as car parks, cold rooms, evaporative cooling and dehumidifiers. Using the very
latest CAD and heat-loading software, they are able to produce reliable and effective solutions to almost any heating or ventilation circumstance. As always their aim is to produce the most suitable package for their client. The scope of works for Advanced Air Conditioning included the supply and installation of the selected air condition system for the development. “With projects of this scale,” Souvaliotis said, “Clear communication is essential. We need to understand what our client’s requirements are and then fulfil those requirements without impacting on the overall works. As always our installation was on time and within budget and we liaised closely with the other trades to ensure the minimum of disruption to all parties.”
and in keeping with this, comprehensive OH&S protocols and training were incorporated into the company’s operations from a very early stage. A respect for the team and the individual within the company is an ethos that has served Advanced Air Conditioning well in their business and this respect is also extended to the client.“It’s critical to our success.” Souvaliotis explained. “Respect creates the atmosphere of excellence we strive to achieve; its respect for the client, the job, your work mates, and the company.”
Advanced Air Conditioning Australia Pty Ltd Shop 2/164-166 Parramatta Rd Granville NSW PO Box 3 Strathfield NSW 3 p. 0 0 03 f. 0 0 0 e. aaca@bigpond.net.au www.advancedairconditioning.com.au
Advanced Air Conditioning’s enlightened attitude is certainly achieving great results, and their involvement in the Palermo project has certainly earned them respect for the effective and successful completion of their works.
Advanced Air Conditioning have always had a clear vision of their employees as their greatest asset NSW Special Feature - Palermo
In their Prime P
rime Marble and Granite is a company that has been involved in almost every facet of development during the 12 years they have been in operation. The company was established by Alan Teo in the early nineties to import, supply, and manufacture high quality natural stone products to the residential and construction industries. Prime Marble and Granite now offers a wide range of products including travertine, marble, granite and sandstone. Their impressive specialist product range includes SmartStone, SileStone, Assaystone, Quarella, Stoneitaliana. Caesar Stone and Quantum Quartz. Over the years, operations have expanded and the company now operates in Queensland, NSW and the ACT. Always maintaining the simple but important principles of efficiency, service, safety, and the desire to provide excellent solutions for their clients, Prime Marble has generated a strong and loyal customer base. Operating out of their factory and showroom in Sydney, Prime Marble & Granite has access to the most advanced computer aided cutting, polishing and edging systems. The technology allows the NSW Special Feature - Palermo
company to produce products of the highest quality, within strict time requirements. The production of superior product is backed up by a team of skilled tradesmen and staff who assist with the installation and coordination of their services. Every project Prime Marble & Granite undertakes involves extensive staff training in OH&S, to ensure that on-site operations are conducted with all the required protocols in place. Of equal importance, these procedures are supervised to guarantee understanding and compliance. Prime Marble & Granite has worked on a wide variety of projects, including shop frontage, staircases, fireplaces, wall cladding, paving, corporate fit-outs, bar tops, coffee tables, and custom furniture. However, their predominant trade is in the provision of kitchen and vanity bench tops. On the Palermo project, Prime Marble & Granite designed, cut, polished, and installed approximately 240 Caesar Stone kitchen bench tops and 400 vanities. The colours chosen were snow and raw silk, in keeping with the vision of the architects.
The company prides itself on its customer focus and considers clear communication essential in coordinating with clients and assisting in design, product selection, delivery, and installation. In addition to this, Prime Marble & Granite is a company dedicated to fast, efficient service, and can provide accurate quotes at short notice. The professional completion of their work on the Palermo project is another indication of their dedication to timely, high quality work, and one of the major reasons behind their success.
Prime Marble & Granite 40-42 Rosedale Ave Greenacre NSW 0 p. 0 08 88 f. 0 08 88 e. info@primemarble.com.au www.primemarble.com.au
The mark of Quality
Quality Building Inspections PO Box 30 Narallan DC NSW p. 0 f. 0 08 f. 0 8 3 e. info@qualbuild.com www.qualbuild.com
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he desire alone is not necessarily all that is required to create a premier residential address. Nor are the vast sums of money that are often involved. The creation of a state of the art development of excellence relies on the quality of the trades involved, the processes that are undertaken, the materials used, and most importantly, the controls and checks set in place by the developers to ensure the eventual result matches the architect’s vision in both design and function. Quality Building Inspections Pty Ltd (QBI) are an integral part of this process and over the eighteen years they have been in business of providing building inspection services they have developed a strong reputation for (as their name suggests) providing the very highest standards of quality and integrity in their operations. Wayne Flynn, the company principal, has nearly 27 years of experience within the building industry and remains a licensed builder. He is also secretary of the Institute of Building Consultants and an accredited Building Consultant with the Master Builders Association, Building Consultants Council. Engaged by Southern Cross Constructions, QBI undertook the quality assurance aspects of the
waterproofing in the 245 apartments at Palermo. Acting on behalf of their clients, this process involved providing work method statements and assessment of materials used, material specific training of supervisors and establishing an inspection process and schedule, undertaking random inspections and providing reports. A key aspect of QBI’s involvement in the development was the establishment of clear lines of communication between themselves, the trades involved, and their clients. To this end QBI facilitated a process of cooperation and accountability and from this they were able to ensure that their involvement proceeded smoothly without disruption to the overall process of construction. QBI provides general building consultancy and a wide variety of technical reports, their expertise in the management of specialised waterproofing trades on Palermo was an ideal opportunity for the company to demonstrate its many and varied abilities. Importantly, QBI’s on-going dedication to training of its own staff and others for the Master Builders Association is a clear investment in the future that reflects their genuine interest in the industry and its standards of quality.
NSW Special Feature - Palermo
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Special Feature | Centrelink
ACT Special Feature - Centrelink
Multiplex Constructions Pty Ltd Level Kent Street Sydney NSW 000 p. 0 000 f. 0 00
State of the art Established in Western Australia over 0 years ago, Multiplex has continually expanded and thrived in its industry and the Centrelink project is no exception
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he $130 million Centrelink project is a state of the art commercial office built on a 5 hectare site in the heart of Tuggeranong in the ACT. It consists of 40,000 sqm of Net Lettable Area and boasts an ABGR rating of 4.5 stars. The building has two main low-rise strcutures stretching for 180 metres that are joined together by a 6 level glass atrium in the centre, the centrepiece of the design. The whole building will be home to the Centrelink National Support Office, and will house over 2500 employees, while also incorporating 1100 car parking spaces. Diversified property business Multiplex led the design and construction of the project. They have a reputation for quality, innovation, and the successful delivery of major projects including large scale commercial, retail, residential and specialist construction projects. Established in Western Australia over 40 years ago, Multiplex has continually expanded and thrived in its industry. It conducts business operations in Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East, and the United Kingdom. Today it employs more than 2000 people across four divisions. Work recently completed by Multiplex includes the Village Park Redevelopment in the ACT, Southern Cross Building in Melbourne, and World Square in Sydney. Multiplex has won multiple awards for its outstanding work on the Centrelink project. They include the Master Builders Awards for excellence in occupational health and safety, excellence in environment management and eco efficiency, and project exhibiting technical difficulty and innovation. It has also received numerous awards for another recent project, the Urban Workshop in Melbourne.
The Centrelink project incorporated many innovative features. For example, the temperature control in the building is achieved via the use of a low temperature VAV system which is enhanced with the use of environmentally efficient, heated flooring and chilled beam technology. To minimise the energy lost in the voluminous atrium, these passive systems were assisted by the creation of microclimates throughout the occupied areas. The temperature control is carefully monitored and controlled by a state of the art, highly intelligent, building management system (BMS). This BMS interfaces with all other systems in the building, including lighting, generator and lift control, and smart metering. A cutting edge lighting control system combining Dali and Dynalite technology reduces energy consumption from electric lights, while the building makes extensive use of daylight harvesting. A sophisticated generator system controlled by SCADA has also been incorporated giving operators the flexibility to shift power around the building to where it is needed most. To monitor power consumption - which is essential for buildings such as the Centrelink project, which are aiming to achieve high environmental standards - a smart metering system developed by Edge has been widely incorporated in to the building. The Centrelink project also boasts the largest solar power farm in the ACT, which is used to generate the heating requirements for the building’s water supply. Cutting edge water recycling technology has also been incorporated to allow the collection and re-use of both stormwater and grey water. ACT Special Feature - Centrelink
Exterior view of the Centrelink project
As a result of Canberra’s highly variable climate conditions, extensive detailing and attention to quality was required to ensure careful control of both structural movement and thermal transfer from outside to inside the building. The Centrelink project was designed with total flexibility in mind. Additional space within ceilings, flexible grid and tile ceilings and access floor were used throughout the building to allow easy reconfiguration of the office spaces All services connected within these areas were also provided with flexible connections so that relocation, rather than disconnection and reconnection, is all that is required during alterations. The high level of “churn” required by Centrelink necessitated an innovative approach to the floor plan, so sections of floor space up to 500 sqm could be completely reconfigured overnight. Multiplex Facilities Management has been engaged for the maintenance of the Centrelink National Support office for the entire lease period. Multiplex Construction and Facilities Management worked together closely during the development to get a full understanding of the building and the most crucial areas for maintenance. The biggest difficulty encountered by Multiplex was the construction of the 6 level Atrium, purely due to its size. It was the most expensive feature of the Centrelink project, and thorough planning was required to ensure the temperature and lighting was constant throughout the whole of the atrium. A further feature of the project was the construction of an access tunnel underneath the building, which provides access to all lifts and service risers without the need to interrupt workers during churn or reconfiguration. Multiplex constantly demonstrates that they are leaders in designing, constructing and maintaining innovative and efficient projects, and the Centrelink project exemplifies their leadership qualities.
ACT Special Feature - Centrelink
Star Electrical Harley Crescent Condell Park NSW 00 p. 0 08 f. 0 0 Heyday Group Waterloo Road North Ryde NSW 3 p. 0 8 f. 0 8
Current partners T
ogether, Star Electrical and Heyday Group have over 80 years of experience and more than 1000 experienced, dedicated employees. When they joined forces to provide electrical services for the Centrelink project, the result was an organised, cohesive team that completed the job thoroughly and efficiently. Established in 1956 as a family owned company by the late John Andrews, Star Electrical has grown in size over the years, but has remained a privately owned company. Star Electrical’s dedication to quality service has been the main contributing factor to it’s successful growth. With a focus on electrical installation and data communications, Star Electrical also designs and implements lighting control systems in house.
This defining characteristic sets them apart from the majority of electrical contractors.
company’s commitment to delivering excellence on every project.
Heyday Group, created in 1978 in the back of a small garage, has grown to a $185 million company with nearly 850 employees.
Working together, the two companies created electrical systems that complied with the “4.5 Star ABGR” energy rating of the building, a challenge that, though difficult, was nonetheless achieved through the teamwork between the companies and other groups working on the project.
The company provides electrical contracting and communications installation that cover a range of building utility services such as electrical infrastructure, energy management systems, fire detection, and voice and data networking systems. The company aims to deliver quality work, within budget and on time. Their simple philosophy has led to more than 20 NECA awards for electrical and communications excellence, an achievement that demonstrates the
Though they come from different backgrounds, Star Electrical and Heyday Group have one thing in common: the dedication and skill to create effective, efficient electrical and data communications systems. When the two companies come together, they create a force to be reckoned with.
ACT Special Feature - Centrelink
Green with envy
Group GSA Pty Ltd Level , 80 William Street East Sydney NSW 0 p. 0 3 f. 0 33 3 8 www.groupgsa.com
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ACT Special Feature - Centrelink
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roup GSA’s approach to Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD) responds to the interests of diverse clients providing quality architecture reflecting contemporary environmental and social concerns. It is now broadly acknowledged that ‘green buildings‘ can deliver financial benefits through direct operational savings, increased productivity and marketing opportunities. Over its 25 year history, the practice has delivered many environmentally responsive projects in diverse sectors. These include the Sydney International Shooting Centre (for the 2000 Green Olympic Games), the Beijing Shooting Centre, Office of Sustainable Futures, Gladesville Office development and many multi-unit residential projects. The design & development of the national headquarters building for Centrelink by Group GSA & Multiplex establishes a new benchmark in workplace design, driven
by environmental and social sustainability initiatives. The 6 storey, $120 million building, with a 50,000m2 GFA accommodates 2,800 employees. Constructed on a 5.4 hectare greenfield site, the development is designed to sit within and reflect the landscape. The plan comprises two major volumes and is joined by an atrium (main street). The atrium provides a high level of social and environmental amenity. The office floor plate width maximises daylight penetration from external windows and the atrium.The atrium is activated by breakout spaces, meeting rooms and cafes. The louvre-protected atrium facing north, maximises daylight penetration. Landscaping of the site with local species promotes biodiversity. The flexible floor plate and building services design to accommodate Centrelink’s high churn level of 110 per cent annually. Overnight (4pm to 7am) re-configuration of large office areas (1,000m2 +) is achieved by a flexible
service grid, modular workstations and access flooring. A 250mm-deep ceiling service zone accommodates supplementary mechanical equipment, fire sprinklers with flexible connections, and light fittings with flexible leads enabling repositioning of services without modification to supply lines.
Careful selection of finishes contributes to a high level of internal environmental quality. Low VOC Onterra carpet tiles are used throughout, which facilitate re-use and local replacement. Timber veneers from sustainable sources are used in the breakout areas to denote the informal socialisation zones.
As a Commonwealth Government facility, the building targeted and achieved a 4.5 star ABGR rating. The design of the building envelope achieves this performance and addressed related sustainability issues of longevity, minimal maintenance and resource efficiency. Precast concrete structural panels, shaded double-glazed (low-E) windows to the north, east and west elevations and insulated cladding panels are the major wall elements. Thermal performance is achieved via air spaces, bulk insulation and specialised double-sided insulation material. Floor slabs are insulated for two metres inside the external walls to minimise thermal bridging.
Building system design and management contributes to the ABGR rating. Low temperature VAV air conditioning is provided to the office area. Highlevel chilled ceiling panels, low-level heated slabs, and displacement systems, maintain comfort in the nonconditioned atrium space. Hot water is provided by roof-mounted gas-boosted solar water heaters. General lighting to supplement daylight is provided by T5 fluorescent fittings (dimmable) controlled by proximity switching devices (photoelectric cells and motion detectors). External fire stairs are largely daylit. Total building energy consumption is managed by a sophisticated BMS, which alerts facilities personnel by alarm when consumption exceeds design levels.
All greywater (kitchen, handbasins, showers) is collected, treated and re-used for toilet flushing. All sanitary fixtures and tapware are water efficient. Roof water is collected to supplement the greywater system, the remainder is detained onsite and released into the Murrumbidgee River system to assist in environmental flows. Carpark runoff is collected in landscaped deep swales which filter out pollutants before detention and release into the river system. The Centrelink National Support Office will deliver a number of key ESD objectives – low environmental impact at both global and local scale, high occupant amenity and substantially reduced wastage usually associated with high churn tenancies. The building continues the evolution of good workplace design capturing the synergistic benefits of environmental, social and economic sustainability.
ACT Special Feature - Centrelink
Supawood PO Box 0 Bathurst NSW p. 0 333 8000 f. 0 33 888 e. sales@supawood.com.au
The warmth of wood E
stablished eight years ago, Supawood are at the forefront of the architectural panel lining industry. Supawood’s portfolio includes many high profile projects such as prestigious government buildings, cultural and heritage landmarks, and premium office fit-outs for banking institutes and other large corporations. The company works across NSW, ACT, Queensland, Western Australia and Northern Territories. As specialists in the industry Supawood design and construct timber-based acoustic, solid and slatted panels to client specifications. The company works closely with architects, designers, and contractors to ensure realization of the design concept and desired result. Maintaining this close working relationship enables Supawood to produce whatever is demanded by a specific project, including shaped and curved panels, special substrates and finishes.
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ACT Special Feature - Centrelink
For this prestigious government development Supawood supplied panels for the building’s atrium, the lift lobbies on each floor, the ceilings and the balconies. The panels used were designed specifically for aesthetic impact. As the appearance of an atrium or lobby is often the client’s first impression of a company, these fixtures are fundamental for creating the right mood and atmosphere. The modular panels used in the building were designed to allow easy access for any service panels, while maintaining high aesthetic standards. Each panel is fully demountable and re-usable. The project necessitated specific colour consistency of the timber throughout the development, with the panels designed to complement the floor colour. This required Supawood staff to take exceptional care in the timber and veneer selection to achieve the correct colour tone on each modular panel. The size of the project meant colour-matching panels for an area of 800m2.
The company employs a team of 22 persons, and have long established relationships with dedicated subcontractors who install their bespoke panel linings. In-house and on-site training of subcontractors and staff ensures Supawood can guarantee the quality of their product and installation. The scale of this project meant that numerous trades were operating simultaneously on the development; with the client’s own consultancy and support team also on site. This meant careful planning and ongoing negotiation to enable the smooth and successful installation of the panels to the project requirements From start to finish Supawood were involved in this project – right from the architect’s design and specification through to the final installation.
ACT Special Feature - Centrelink
Cool and green
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n innovative and energy efficient air conditioning system is imperative for a building to receive an ABGR rating of 4.5 and a green star rating. The $130 million Centrelink project did just that, and Hastie Air Conditioning was on site to design a cutting edge air conditioning solution. The company was committed to the project, from the early conceptual stage to testing, commissioning, and hand over. Because the company was responsible for the system from beginning to end, any issues that arose could be easily fixed during the construction stages. The project was successfully completed by Hastie with a site based team and specialist mechanical and controls sub-contractors for the installation, testing and commissioning works.
Hastie Australia Pike St Rydalmere NSW p. 0 8 f. 0 8 080
ACT Special Feature - Centrelink
For the project to receive such an efficient rating, a number of new materials were used for the project, including Radiant Chilled Ceilings and Swirl Diffuser. The buildings ductwork design was based on a low temperature VAV system. Hastie Air Conditioning is Australia’s leading air conditioning installation, maintenance, and electrical company, and has been providing services in Australia since 1970 as a subsidiary of Hastie in the UK, from offices across Australia and New Zealand. Their experience and knowledge
of the industry gives Hastie a distinct advantage, and ensured there were no major issues on the Centrelink project. Projects previously completed by Hastie include the Parramatta Justice Precinct, and Regent Place and Latitude in Sydney. They are currently finishing the Latitude East Project. The Centrelink National Support Office was a challenging but successful project. The 6- level glass atrium, the projects centre piece, required a constant temperature throughout, which Hastie’s expertise and immaculate air conditioning design allowed to happen. Client handover was achieved on schedule by Multiplex in June 2007.
Easy access floors T
asman Access Floors boasts more than 25 years experience in the design, manufacture, supply, and installation of access floors across Australasia. With direct representation in all states & territories of Australia, the company has positioned themselves as market leaders. Their impressive project portfolio of over 1.5 million m² includes numerous installations for leading IT, financial, banking, government, & private business sectors. Tasman’s current major projects include Commonwealth Bank - ‘The Zone’ @ Sydney Olympic Park & Norwest Data Centre, Macquarie Bank - 135 King Street, Suncorp - 259 George St, Council House 2 (CH2) Melbourne & Centrelink NSO at Tuggeranong, Canberra.
Tasman’s in-house installer training enables the company to maintain their high quality service.
the rapid churning of the office environment and enables users to re-route under floor services with ease.
For the Centrelink project, Tasman’s Design & Construct contract included supply & installation of 33,000m² of the Tasman Tascor® Unifix access floor system.
This modular system designed by Tasman Access Floors facilitates re-use at the end of a tenancy. Furthermore, the raw materials used in the construction of the modular panels & understructure enable easy recycling and contribute to the environmental advantages of access floors.
This system consists of a 600mm x 600mm corner-locked steel/ concrete composite panel on a Unifix pedestal under structure installed 200mm above the structural slab level. These panels also incorporate OnGrid™ locating holes for the location of the on-grid carpet system without carpet adhesives. Designed for easy access, the access floor system in conjunction with on-grid carpet tile allows for
Tasman Access Floors 8 Biloela Street Villawood NSW 3 p. 0 8 f. 0 8 3088 m. 0 00 e. w.brown@tasmanfloors.com.au www.tasmanaccessfloors.com.au
ACT Special Feature - Centrelink
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Thinking outside the box
Redbox Design Group PO Box Kingston ACT 0 p. 0 80 f. 0 80 3 3
ACT Special Feature - Centrelink
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edbox Design Group specializes in urban design, town planning, landscape architecture, and site planning. Based in Canberra with an office also in Melbourne, they are dedicated to providing quality, relevant, practical, and innovative solutions. For the Centrelink project Redbox was responsible for the landscape design. There were a number of environmental factors affecting the Centrelink project’s development, and Redbox came up with a design that conformed to stringent environmental codes for dealing with issues such as the effect on native fauna, the location of the development which is adjacent to the Murrumbidgee River Corridor, and the effect the 2003 Canberra bush fires had on the local area. To minimise any future fire risk several measures were taken. Tree placement in relation to the buildings was thoroughly planned, and recycled concrete mulch was used on all gardens. In response to the devastating effects of the drought on the Canberra region, Redbox imposed many innovative and energy efficient designs to ensure only minimum water usage including extensive use of local flora and native grasses.
A detailed assessment of water use versus rainfall was set up. Because water for irrigation was restricted due to its scarcity, the grey water system, which recycles most of the water on site, was used. The irrigation system was also programmed to adjust water use based on the season and availability of the water. Redbox Design Group is the amalgamation of 2 leading Canberra companies, and has been operating since 2004. They have won numerous planning and design awards from the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects and have been involved in many major projects around Canberra including Parliament House and the Brindabella Business Park for which they received a design award Redbox has been involved with the Centrelink project over a 12-month period. Their commitment to quality design has been shown through the high profile projects they are involved in, and further cements their position as one of Australia’s leading landscape architects.
Pumping it up
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he new Centrelink National Support Office being constructed by Multiplex in Tuggeranong ACT is a state of the art design that incorporates many innovative features. It consists of 2 low rise buildings stretching for 180 metres that are joined together by a 6-level glass atrium. The large scale project required the involvement of a concreting company that had the expertise and professionalism to complete the project on time and on budget. CPS Concretors Pty Ltd was the ideal candidate for the task. CPS Concretors have more than 36 years experience in the concreting industry, specializing in concrete placing and finishing. It also includes another company, CPS Concrete Pumping, which specialises in shotcreting and concrete pumping. CPS has built a solid reputation for providing high quality, professional service to all their clients in the Canberra region and surrounding area. 22 of their employees were involved in the Centrelink project, completing all concreting and concrete pumping. CPS has 6 mobile concrete pumps and two tower pumps. Five of the mobile pumps work in the Canberra region and one permanently based at Batemans Bay NSW. The concrete pumped by CPS was used for most of the base and for structural support on the Centrelink project. Though
the construction consisted of many new designs and innovative features, it was business as usual for CPS and no major issues ensued for them. Its passion for large commercial projects, and unquestionable commitment to excellence, was proven in their dedication to the project. The team at CPS has taken on many large-scale projects, all of which have been undertaken within the parameters set for time, cost and guaranteed quality. These factors have earned them many awards including ‘Excellence in Building’ awards for various projects such as Radford College, National Memorial to the Australian Vietnam Veterans, and CCEGGS Indoor Swimming Complex. CPS’ involvement with the Centrelink project has lasted for approximately 18 months and is running right on schedule. They have recently completed projects at 7 London Cct Canberra and 18 Marcus Clarke St Canberra, both for Thiess Pty Ltd.
CPS Concretors Pty Ltd PO Box 0 Kambah ACT 0 p. 0 3 83 f. 0 3 cpsconcretors@netspeed.com.au
Customised fire safety T
he $120 million Centrelink project constructed in the heart of Tuggeranong, ACT was designed with safety in mind. This was the perfect opportunity for the fire safety consultancy service Defire to use their expertise and knowledge to design a fire safety strategy that met their clients objectives whilst maintaining the required level of safety. The building is amazingly efficient with a 4.5 ABGR rating Defire worked with the construction company Multiplex and the projects architects, Group GSA, during the design process to develop a specialized concept for the fire safety design. Four of Defire’s 15 staff members were involved in the design, which included performance based alternative solutions such as active fire suppression with smoke separation and natural buoyancy driven ventilation for smoke control within the atrium. The design was then analysed using the latest computer simulation technology, the Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS), to predict the possible scenarios and conditions of a real building fire. Simulex evacuation modelling th analysed the evacuation time of different areas
Sydney office Suite 3, L , 83 Kippax St Surry Hills NSW 0 0 p. 0 333 f. 0 3 micael@defire.com.au Canberra office Unit 2, 11 Murray Crescent Manuka ACT 03 p. 0 0 8 88 f. 0 0 8 stephen@defire.com.au
of the building. An issue encountered by Defire during the design of the Centrelink project was the need to develop a fire safety strategy that would meet the clients objectives and still conform to modern office design features like large, open floors, visual connections, and circulation spaces inside an atrium. The expertise and attention to detail of Defire, coupled with their ability to work closely with the construction company Multiplex and architects Group GSA, meant they were able to provide a strategy that perfectly suited the clients needs.
Defire is a specialised consultancy service in performance based fire safety design that provides a customised package of alternate fire safety measures for every design. Beginning in Sydney in January 2002, Defire has experienced significant growth in demand due to their high quality and innovative fire safety services. In July 2007 Defire merged with Canberra based company Stephen Wise & Associates to further strengthen their ability to provide timely and quality fire safety design.
ACT Special Feature - Centrelink
Special Feature | Royal Women’s Hospital
The Royal treatment
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Baulderstone Hornibrook’s team has added value to all stages, finding the most creative and cost-effective solutions for every challenge faced
aulderstone Hornibrook has a proud history of creating world-class facilities and landmarks for the Australian community. Its well-established reputation for excellence has been earned through its delivery of building, civil engineering, and capital solutions to a broad range of clients across Australia. With over 50 years of industry experience, and an extensive and prolific portfolio under its belt, Baulderstone Hornibrook continues to be at the forefront of the Australian construction industry.
Baulderstone & Hornibrook Level / South Bank Boulevard South Bank VIC 3000 p. 03 8 f. 03 8 www.bh.com.au
Its extensive portfolio spans commercial premises, cultural and health facilities, road and rail projects, and other special purpose buildings throughout Australia and Asia. Examples of some of the major projects Baulderstone Hornibrook has been involved with include the Cross City Tunnel in Sydney, the Telstra
VIC Special Feature - Royal Women’s Hospital
Dome at Docklands in Victoria, and the Biotechnology Research Facility at the University of Melbourne. In 1993, Baulderstone Hornibrook’s strength within the industry increased when it was acquired by international construction leader, Bilfinger Berger. Baulderstone Hornibrook can now draw upon the resources, expertise, and knowledge of one of the world’s largest construction companies, while continuing to deliver outstanding services to clients in Australia. With project operations expanding overseas to China, New Zealand, Taiwan, Malaysia, and Singapore, Baulderstone Hornibrook’s aim is to build profits as well as enhance their client’s prestige. With design and construction contracts becoming a mainstay of the Baulderstone
Hornibrook business in recent years, it was little wonder it was part of the Bilfinger Berger winning consortium, the ‘Royal Women’s Health Partnership’ (RWHP). The RWHP’s goal was to redevelop Melbourne’s Royal Women’s Hospital under the Victorian Government’s Public Private Partnership model, Partnerships Victoria. Under this model, RWHP is responsible for the design, construction and maintenance of the facility for the next 25 years. The hospital, opening in mid-2008, will showcase outstanding contemporary hospital design and will offer a welcoming, reassuring atmosphere for all women. With its many departments, including gynecology, obstetrics, cancer and sexual health care, the finished project will incorporate a 9 level above ground hospital with 160 beds, 60 cots, 17 birthing suites, 5 operating theatres, 2 procedure
rooms, 14 consulting suites, and a 960 space underground car park. The 88-bed Frances Perry House private hospital will be located on the top two floors of the Women’s hospital. The hospital will move from its existing site in Carlton to the corner of Grattan Street and Flemington Road in Parkville, less than five minutes north of the Melbourne CBD. Baulderstone Hornibrook has been responsible for both the design and construction of the hospital. Work commenced on site in April 2005, and with around 450 professional and motivated employees on-site, the project has proceeded smoothly. This has largely been a result of RWHP and Baulderstone Hornibrook’s extensive knowledge of the development process - a process that will allow the Royal Women’s Hospital to enjoy a smooth transition to its new home.
It is this dedication and professionalism of the project team that has seen the new Royal Women’s Hospital project progress on time and on budget. Excavation work for the 5 level underground car park has been rapidly completed, and the use of 3 tower cranes has helped to ensure a safe and fast working environment. Construction of the hospital’s concrete structure has been completed and the external façade and fit-out of internal services, walls, and windows is now taking place. Throughout the project, Baulderstone Hornibrook’s team has added value to all stages, finding the most creative and cost-effective solutions for every challenge faced and providing efficient, practical results.
VIC Special Feature - Royal Women’s Hospital
United Group Services Level 30 Casselden Place Lonsdale Street Melbourne VIC 3000 p. 03 3 00 f. 03 3 0 e. servicesinfo@unitedgroupltd.com www.unitedgroupltd.com
United on all fronts U
nited Group Limited has grown from a small engineering construction company in Perth, Western Australia, to a publicly listed and highly respected infrastructure and industrial services company. Its five operating businesses, United Group Rail, Resources, Services, Transport & Systems and Water & Energy, aim to deliver tailored solutions and services to a variety of clients, including both Government and blue-chip customers. Since United Group’s founding in the 1970’s, it has grown into a flourishing and prosperous business, with approximately 30,000 professional and highly skilled employees. As part of its growth strategy United Group has also acquired a number of businesses including Kilpatrick Green (1998), the Australian rail icon, Goninan in 1999, CRE business KFPW in 2002, and Thames Water Projects Asia in 2004. In addition, it has also acquired Singaporean real-estate company PREMAS, ALSTOM’s 8
VIC Special Feature - Royal Women’s Hospital
Australian and New Zealand transport and rail businesses in 2005, Chicago-based Equis Corporation in 2006, and Boston-based UNICCO earlier this year. As a result of these partnerships, United Group is able to lead the industry in the delivery of cutting-edge technologies and expert service provision. Having been involved in a number of highprofile projects, such as its instrumental role in the NSW rail system for over 100 years, the delivery of the North West shelf project over the last 20 years, and assisting the development of Australia’s alumnium industry over the past 40 years, as well as its emerging success within the healthcare sector, it was only fitting that United Group’s property management arm, along with its recently launched healthcare services arm, were invited into the consortium to manage the hard and soft services for the Royal Women’s’ Hospital development in Melbourne.
United Group Services specialises in property outsourcing services, including Corporate Real Estate and Facilities Management services. United Group Services - Healthcare is an established, standalone healthcare business that aims to provide industry specific solutions in supply chain management, facilities management, outsourcing and managed equipment services, to benefit the client over the long term. The business boasts unique skills that drive positive healthcare outcomes, reinforced by its experienced and dedicated resources who are committed to working in partnership on projects such as the Royal Women’s Hospital and other public and private hospitals and healthcare facilities. The eleven employees directly involved in the Royal Women’s Hospital re-development are the long-term Facility Management Providers (FMP) for the project, aiming to ensure a successful long-term project result.
Initially commencing work on the hospital in 2005, United Group Services has a 25- year contract to develop an integrated control centre for both hard and soft services that are essential for communication and the coordination of all the hospital services. Examples of these include the management of BMS, Helpdesk, Computerised Maintenance Management System, access and lighting control, lift control and maintenance, communications, hospital equipment (medical gases, pressure systems and hydraulics) cleaning, food services and security. As a result of this centralised delivery of approach, United Group Services and its Healthcare team have been able to ensure a coordinated, cost-effective delivery of services and asset management to the client. The conditions of the Public Private Partnership project mean that, over the next 25 years, United Group Services will be responsible for the maintenance of the hospital’s services
and facilities, as well as the replacement, refurbishment and replenishment of equipment through both its FM business and the United Group Services - Healthcare business. Whilst working on the Royal Women’s Hospital, United Group has been carefully monitoring the design development of the facility, to ensure that the maximum benefits of the design process are being optimised. An example of some of its innovative changes has been the use of PDA technology and the integration of BMS and performance management systems into its Computerised Management Maintenance System. This will ensure that its response and performance meets the many key performance indicators that form part of the contractual obligation in the delivery of both hard and soft services. The inclusion of RFID technology into the security system also provides state of the art security monitoring capability. This outcome ensures a fully integrated systems
approach through high end technology and supports United Group’s service delivery model. Relocation of the Royal Women’s Hospital has required significant change management practices. The United Group team has developed a solution specifically tailored to meet the needs of the Royal Women’s Hospital and other key stakeholders. United Group Services and its Healthcare team have played an integral role in the development of the new Royal Women’s’ Hospital. The organisation’s specialised understanding and long-term experience in regards to the healthcare industry has played an integral role in providing effective, innovative and time-saving solutions to meet both client and customer demands. United Group Services - Healthcare is excited by this successful and productive partnership and is looking forward to further developing relations with key healthcare sector providers. VIC Special Feature - Royal Women’s Hospital
Tip top shape Woodhead Level 0, Little Bourke Street Melbourne VIC 3000 p. 03 0 f. 03 0 e. jlewit@woodhead.com.au DesignInc Melbourne Level , Melbourne Central Tower 3 0 Elizabeth Street Melbourne VIC 3000 p. 03 f. 03 3 e. jwilliams@melb.designinc.com.au
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VIC Special Feature - Royal Women’s Hospital
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he architectural vision for the Royal Women’s Hospital redevelopment project was the result of a joint venture between DesignInc and Woodhead (DWI). Both companies are respected within the industry and both companies have been recipients of many awards on numerous occasions. However, what both companies had never been able to deliver before was their combined vision for a project. The JV provided an opportunity for this to occur. Each company’s skills and attributes were combined into one holistic approach to the project. The successful results are clearly evident in the iconic and inventive development. The philosophical intention of the design process from the outset was to create a dedicated women’s facility that maintains its own identity without jarring the context of the neighbouring buildings. In effect the Women’s Hospital must be modern and technically supportive, but still part of the community. It needs to be a place that is sensitive and respectful to the needs of its patients, but also a place with a capacity for relaxed family interaction and healing.
The development is perhaps unique in its aspirations and has been designed to accommodate women from a broad range of ethnic and cultural backgrounds. This not only reflects modern Melbourne and its cosmopolitan society, but also the integrated mix of a modern country in the 21st century. Muslim architectural consultancy was sought and incorporated as were the principles of Feng Shui and indigenous Koori women’s cultural needs. Consultation with community groups, and focus groups representing patients, families and clinical staff provided an insight into their hopes for the new Women’s Hospital and these desires and aspirations have been incorporated into the design. Public spaces have been created with the intention of providing a bright, light-filled, welcoming space. The four story atrium affords reception for both the public and private hospitals and vehicular access and drop off on a lower level remains separate, yet connected through a two story void into the foyer. Atop the atrium
a healing garden has been designed with access for all patients and visitors. Careful attention has been paid to the choice of sustainable materials that enhance the contemporary aesthetic without becoming dated. The intention was to create a ‘hotel style’ atmosphere that was both welcoming and comfortable with a touch of luxury. Honey toned wood panelling, decorative glass linings around the atrium space and rich carpets help to create a warm feeling and sense of arrival. The theme is continued through the hospital’s patient care areas. Careful selection of colours, lighting, furnishings and finishes has created areas that provide privacy, comfort and support whilst maintaining the professional edge of a leading hospital.
A nodal design for the ward layout creates close contact with care staff stations for all patients. Disability requirements and access are incorporated into the development, and child friendly access and play areas have been established throughout.
Naturally the requirements of a modern hospital are as diverse as its patient needs. Extensive research and the application of innovative design principles have ensured that all care facilities meet with stringent protocols and design regulations. Attention has been paid to the creation of wards that assist in providing patient comfort and the efficient delivery of care.
The development makes use of passive initiatives such as the north south building orientation to take advantage of the sun’s light. Floor plate depth also maximises natural lighting. The displacement air conditioning system provides 100% clean air to the in-patient wards and minimises stale air and possible cross-contamination. Low energy lighting and advanced controls
As with all modern development, environmental initiatives have been carefully considered. Incorporating sustainable attributes into the development not only recognised the Victorian Governments desire for sustainability but also created significant cost and health benefits. The JV chose to treat these aspects of the project in a holistic sense, rather than add-ons to specific and separate areas.
incorporated into the BMS also assist in reduced energy consumption. Due for completion in 2008 the new Royal Women’s Hospital has been created with significant care and attention to the diverse needs and requirements of a modern society. It will also house the most advanced world class medical systems and research facilities available. However, perhaps the greatest innovation of the project is the integration of humanity into an institutional setting that is sure to provide enhanced levels of health promotion and respect for its patients for many generations to come. DWI, through both DesignInc and Woodhead, operates major offices throughout Australia as well as Asia. The practice is second to none in its ability to assemble and deploy its specialist design and project resources in response to health facility projects in any location. It also has experience in a wide range of project delivery methods from traditional through to Public Private Partnerships.
VIC Special Feature - Royal Women’s Hospital
Cool operators E
stablished in 1898, AE Smith has maintained the core beliefs of its founder Albert Edward Smith with dedication to integrity and quality firmly entrenched in all aspects of the company’s operations. Today, AE Smith is a BRW Top 500 private company and remains 100% Australian owned. The business has maintained an inventive and fresh approach to its operations that embraces new technologies and methods as they arise. With more than 500 employees nationwide, AE Smith is one of the largest and most experienced air conditioning and mechanical service contractors in the country. Indicative of AE Smith’s fresh approach is the company’s strong focus on the environment. A member of the Green Building Council of Australia and the New Zealand Green Building Council, AE Smith is also a proud supporter of ‘Greenfleet’ (www.greenfleet.com.au) – an environmental not-for-profit organisation through which AE Smith will plant 10,000 trees by 2010. Engaged by the developers of the Royal Women’s Hospital Project, AE Smith undertook the management, design and installation of the entire HVAC and mechanical services for the redevel
VIC Special Feature - Royal Women’s Hospital
opment project. In keeping with the company’s desire to achieve results that not only meet and exceed client requirements, but also provide benefits to the environment, AE Smith sought to add value to the project through additional ESDI. Some of these included the use of compressed air testing of fluid and gas piping to reduce water wastage, and the installation of fibre free ventilation systems. AE Smith is able to provide design, manufacture, engineering and installation services to their clients through the very latest in 3D CAD drafting and manufacturing at their state of the art factories and offices. From major development works such as the Eureka Tower and Australian Synchrotron through to complex redevelopment including the MCG and the Austin Health and Mercy Hospital for Women, AE Smith bring the skills and professional systems to ensure project completion and delivery of the very highest standards and safety. The company’s commitment to safety embodied through its ‘Zero Harm’ culture has seen AE Smith awarded for their operations on the $105 million Darwin Convention and Exhibition Centre. More importantly AE Smith’s dedication to workplace
safety continues to provide their workforce and subcontractors with the opportunity to participate and accept ownership for the safety of their workplace. With the successful completion of the Royal Women’s Hospital project, AE Smith will continue their association through the provision of maintenance services for their installations highlighting the company’s ability to provide a complete service to their clients from conception through to completion. For more information, please contact Peter Staedler, General Manager, 03 9271 1999. AE Smith 21-29 Mile Street Mulgrave VIC 3 0 p. 03 f. 03 e. info@aesmith.com.au www.aesmith.com.au
Civil-ized structures F
ounded in 1981, Bonacci Group is the provider of specialist structural and civil engineering services, offering outstanding services for both small scale and multi-million dollar projects within Australia. With offices in Melbourne, Geelong, Sydney, Brisbane and most recently the Gold Coast, Bonacci Group’s professional and loyal team of 100 employees provide a high quality of service and innovative and buildable designs. Bonacci Group was responsible for the design and supervision of the structural and civil engineering works for the hospital, which is being designed, documented, tendered, constructed, and maintained through a Partnerships Victoria 25 year concession period. This re-development will provide a new, world-class hospital adjacent to the existing Royal Melbourne Hospital site. The 160-bed facility specializing in women’s and neo-natal pediatric health services has been devised as a stand-alone facility with its own distinctive presence, but will retain the ability to
tap into infrastructure and support services from the Royal Melbourne Hospital. A project of such high importance and stature required the expertise of the Bonacci Group, whose innovative approach and professional staff were able to perform the required duties, meeting both deadlines and client expectations. A re-development of this size also posed a number of challenges. One of these was the transfer of core walls above the car park driveway, as well as the installation of link bridges between the two hospital wings. Bonacci Group’s specialist civil and structural engineering team was able to introduce effective and time-saving solutions to these problems. Adhering to the philosophy of using simple yet effective techniques has been fundamental to the success of the Bonacci Group, and to their wealth of satisfied clients. With a number of BRW awards already under their belt, the Bonacci Group continues to maintain the status as one of the leaders in their industry.
Bonacci Group 0 Hoddle Street, Abbotsford VIC 30 p. 03 8 000 f. 03 8 00 e. melbourne@bonaccigroup.com www.bonaccigroup.com
VIC Special Feature - Royal Women’s Hospital
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Seamless Integration
Healthcare executives face an ever-mounting series of challenges in delivering the best possible care to patients. It becomes even more complex due to such variables as changing government regulations, increased security concerns in and around the facility and the operation and maintenance needs of a specialised hospital.
TAC is a leading expert in providing integrated systems. The new Royal Women’s Hospital (RWH) project in Melbourne, highlights the way in which TAC helps healthcare executives deliver a facility that responds to the needs of patients, staff and the community at large, in a safe, secure and cost effective manner.
The new RWH, which is scheduled to open in June 2008, reflects TAC’s approach to the healthcare industry. “Healthcare projects are inherently complex. Through the integration of building control and security systems, (such as air conditioning, medical gas, nurse call, video surveillance and baby tagging systems), TAC simplifies these complexities,” said Paul Burrows, Account Manager, BMS Sales, for TAC.
VIC Special Feature - Royal Women’s Hospital
“As the operational needs of any building changes over time, it is incumbent on TAC to adapt. TAC’s expertise and technology ensures efficiency and flexibility both today and into the future,” Paul said.
Paul also explained that hospital staff requires access to critical data instantly in a simple, userfriendly manner. Another critical user, as in the case at the RWH, is the facility manager United Group Services (UGS). UGS needs to be able to respond immediately to operational and security matters, and consolidate vast quantities of data in simple management reports over the course of its 25-year contract. For example, the management and review of months of closed circuit television (CCTV) footage can be demanding. By installing an intelligent integrated system, events can be easily tracked, assessed, logged and then reported to authorities if necessary. Peter Main, Baulderstone Hornibrook (BHPL) Services and Completion Manager for the RWH, said the complexity of Public Private Partnerships projects, combined with the intensive services coordination and interface requirements, requires a dedicated, focused and self-motivated services team.
“The next 12 months will be the true test of all the good preparation and systems planning that has taken place during the design development period of the RWH. TAC will play an extremely vital role in bringing all these components together in a timely and professional manner,” Peter said. Blaine Cooke, TAC Project Manager for the RWH, said the level of complexity and detail required for properly outfitting the hospital’s requirements far exceeds those of standard office buildings. A case in point is the sophisticated pressure controls required for its suite of operating theatres and isolation rooms, versus those found in a typical office high-rise. “Most office spaces require a slight positive pressure, in an effort to keep dust and other pollutants from flowing into these spaces. In a hospital’s operating theatres and isolation rooms, this control requirement changes and becomes significantly more critical. For example,
Isolation room pressures for contagious patients are maintained negatively to the adjoining areas to ensure none of these germs or diseases spread. “These systems are considerably more complex than the level of comfort conditioning commonly found in commercial buildings,” Blaine explained. The management of our resources, in particular water and electricity, is critical in all facilities today. TAC has worked with A.E. Smith and Sons (Mechanical Services), BHPL (Builder), and UGS (Facility Managers) to develop an innovative, efficient and cost effective way of managing these resources. Information obtained on all services throughout RWH and from services brought into the building from the adjoining Royal Melbourne Hospital is closely monitored by the TAC system. Both UGS and RWH can gain information on a continuous basis regarding
how much energy is consumed in different parts of the building, helping not only to gain an insight into the buildings operation, but in minimising and forecasting future energy requirements. “At the end of the day, our open system solution delivers lower upfront costs, integrated services control, and increased efficiency of building operations to our customers,” Paul concluded.
TAC Australia Head Office: Lvl 3/2A Lord St, Botany, NSW 2019 Tel: +61 (0) 2 8336 6100 www.tac.com
VIC Special Feature - Royal Women’s Hospital
Running hot and cold CDC Plumbing and Drainage uses only state-of-the-art technology. The hot and cold water pipe that was installed on the new Royal Women’s Hospital development is the newest alternative to the traditional piping systems.
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DC Plumbing and Drainage in Victoria prides itself on being “the force behind hydraulics” and , with over 30 years experience the team at CDC have become leaders in commercial, industrial and multi-story hydraulics. The recent acquisition of CDC Plumbing and Drainage by the Hastie group will extend the company’s development and strength within the plumbing industry. CDC Plumbing and Drainage plays a major leadership role within the specialised field servicing projects of high demand across a broad range of sizes. Although they are currently based in Victoria, they are in the process of expanding the company to a national, and international, level.
As a result of their extensive resources including occupational health and safety management and implementation, their use of only the latest technology and products, and their being made up of an enthusiastic, competitive and professional workforce, CDC Plumbing and Drainage is able to successfully bid for projects across a range of sizes from small retail installations right through to government and health service buildings.
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VIC Special Feature - Royal Women’s Hospital
Examples of past projects CDC Plumbing and Drainage has completed within Australia include Telstra Dome Stadium worth $12.0 million, Austin Hospital Redevelopment worth $12.8 million and Remand and CPC Prisons worth $15.5 million. They have also completed over 10,000 residential high rise apartments in the last 5 years with a combined total of approximately $80 million. With such an abundant number of projects to their name, it was only natural that CDC Plumbing and Drainage was selected to work on the new Royal Women’s Hospital Development in Melbourne. Initially commencing work on the site in January 2006, an astute team of CDC employees are still working on the development, with their involvement expected to continue until June 2008. The Royal Women’s Hospital is the second major hospital development CDC have been involved with over the last 4 years, demonstrating their ability to cope with any large scale project. Whilst working on site, CDC has been responsible for all the hydraulic plumbing works required to be completed within the building. This has involved the installation of stormwater, sewer, and hot and cold water systems that supply the many toilets, basins and showers, a commercial kitchen is also located within the
building. Additionally, installation of specific laboratory fixtures for the research facilities of the Royal Women’s Hospital were also required. To date, CDC Plumbing and Drainage has faced no major challenges working on the Royal Women’s Hospital development. As a result of their strong team of 45 employees dedicated to the project they are well on the way to meeting all development and installation deadlines for the project. CDC Plumbing and Drainage is capable of offering professional off-site communications and on-site control across a broad range of different sized developments and projects. In addition, they are able to offer a high standard of performance that exceeds clients’ expectations in a cost effective and innovative manner.
CDC Plumbing & Drainage 3 Aerolink Drive Tullamarine VIC 3043 p. 03 9272 9000 f. 03 9272 9099 www.cdcplumbing.com
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19609 Real Flame ANCR Ad
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Real Flame pioneered the first AGA approved power flue system in 2004. Prior to its development, open fronted gas fires were restricted to using a vertical flue, which prevented installations in many situations such as ground floors in 2 storey homes or apartments. The power flue enables the installation of open fronted gas fireplaces in virtually any situation with a horizontal flue run of up to 13.5m incorporating up to four 90 degree bends. The Real Flame power flue system has been used with great success in many applications including the prestigious Melbourne high rise development “Royal Domain Tower”. For further information visit www.realflame.com.au
Surveying the scene P
hilip Chun and Associates Pty Ltd is a wellrenowned Australian building surveying consultants firm, providing building design certification, construction permits, and consultation services, covering all aspects of building regulation and control across both private and public sectors. With an innovative system approach to building design, Philip Chun and Associates Pty Ltd has been involved in a variety of projects, ranging from commercial and residential developments to large floor, industrial buildings. With a high-profile reputation in the industry spanning over 17 years, it came as little surprise that Philip Chun and Associates were commissioned to work on Melbourne’s Royal Women’s Hospital. The Philip Chun and Associates team, consisting of four highly motivated and experienced individuals, were in charge of the building and surveying consulting of the re-development of the hospital. Further responsibilities included the issue of building and occupancy permits, as well as carrying out the required on-site inspections. With a prolific profile and a growing reputation
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VIC Special Feature - Royal Women’s Hospital
as the leader in their industry, Philip Chun and Associates will continue to be the number one choice by companies to undertake and assist with a number of research and report projects, including both small and large-scale developments.
Philip Chun and Associates VIC Office Level , 0 Jolimont Rd Jolimont VIC 300 p. 03 00 f. 03 QLD Office Unit 6, 49 Gregory Terrace SPRING HILL QLD 4004 p. 0 383 3 f. 0 383 NSW Office Suite , Level Hampden Road Artarmon NSW 0 p. 0 3 f. 0 33
Top Form
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orm 700, established in 2002, already has a strong presence in the Victorian construction industry. Together, the company’s co-owners Emilio Rosati, Paul Brazis, and Nick Spiropoulus believe their success lies in their ability to adapt to meet the specific demands of any project.
square metres of formwork in the 5-level basement car park posed an obstacle, in that an immense area had to be built on a very tight deadline. To overcome this, Form 700 used vast amounts of formwork material, and temporary openings were left in the slabs to enable the recovery off formwork material.
On the Royal Women’s Hospital, Form 700 was responsible for building the concrete structure of the hospital. This also involved the supply, erection, and stripping of the formwork, the supply and fixing of reinforcements, the supply, pumping, placing, and finishing of concrete, the supply and installation of post-tensioning for suspended slabs, and the erection of precast concrete panels. The team was also responsible for the supply and operation of the “Jump Form” lift shaft core system, the self-climbing perimeter safety screen system, and the formwork material hoist.
Form 700’s core company value of establishing close working relationships with developers and other contractors, has been key to their overwhelming success. Form 700 has a rapidly growing presence within the construction industry, and one that will only strengthen further in the future.
Whilst working on the Royal Women’s Hospital, Form 700 erected precast concrete panels in a new and innovative way - by lowering a crane hook though purpose-made openings in the screen system working decks. Given the large size of the development, the team from Form 700 faced a number of challenges. Having to build around 70,000
FORM 700 0 Blackshaws Road Altona North VIC 30 p. 03 3 3 00 f. 03 3 00
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Special Feature | AXA
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Centre
VICSpecial SpecialFeature Feature- AXA - Royal Women’s Hospital VIC Centre
AXA Centre
Grocon’s Stunning AXA Insurance Group Offices Project
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No risk involved How the AXA Group insured all’s well with Grocon
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elbourne based Grocon has grown from a small family company in the 1950s to the leading privately owned development and construction group in Australia. In that time, it has constructed some of the tallest and most impressive buildings in this country, towering skyscrapers such as the 92 level Eureka Tower at Southbank and the 62 storey Cove apartments in Sydney’s Rocks area. By comparison, its current 10 level AXA Centre construction at 750 Collins St in Melbourne’s Docklands might at first seem overshadowed by its iconic skyline landmarks. That is, until the full dimensions and innovative design of the new AXA project are fully revealed. Whilst it might only be a modest ten storeys high, the $240 million project boasts some 65,000 m2 and the “groundscraper” is in fact
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VIC Special Feature - AXA Centre
the equivalent of an average 30 storey building. The campus style building will eventually house some 2200 employees, plus a child care centre for 95, as well as above ground parking and a gym. As the Australasian headquarters of the AXA insurance group, the building was designed by Cox Architects, with whom Grocon previously worked on the MCG upgrading, to reflect the historical, cultural and corporate ties of AXA. The striking architectural design features four levels of podium situated retail space leading to six levels of commercial office space and interspersed with four individually themed wintergardens. Set over three levels the wintergardens were designed by the award winning landscape design company Rush\Wright Associates, with each devoted to an aspect of
AXA’s French heritage and that influence in Australia. Complimenting these spacious and light filled areas are three impressive pieces of integrated artwork by Sydney artist Jonathan Jones, each two storeys high and progressively installed at a cost of $1.2m. The unique nature of the Docklands site provided a number of major challenges in construction. Problems with silt from the Yarra River delta and the possibility of soil contamination necessitated the project be constructed entirely above ground level. Using the VibroPile CFA pile arrangement, foundations were socketed into the rock some 30m below ground level, saving time and money. High winds in the Docklands precinct restricted the use of cranes and necessitated the adoption of an innovative system of self-climbing screens
and formwork hoists - the end result being a major contributor to the project proceeding well ahead of schedule.
Melbourne’s central business district. The Trust is now fully subscribed with AXA agreeing to lease more than 70 per cent of the building for a minimum period of 12 years.
Environmentally the Centre has been built with the highest energy saving applications and whilst contracted to a 4-Star Green Star rating, Grocon is confident the finished project will eventually achieve 5-Star status. As with all Grocon constructions the building is finished to the very highest standards, not only aesthetically but with the introduction of sophisticated fire prevention and air conditioning systems. The AXA Centre also marks the first time Grocon, through the Grocon Property Trust Australia, has offered the general public the opportunity to indirectly invest in an investment-grade commercial property in
Grocon 3 Albert Coates Lane Melbourne VIC 3000 p. 03 3 8833 f. 03 3 88 0 www.grocon.com.au
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Imaginative design
‘I
magine, Design and Deliver’ is the motto of Bonacci Group, a specialist civil, structural, environmental and infrastructure engineering consultancy. It’s a functional motto, and functionality is what Bonacci Group pride themselves on delivering. When Bonacci Group are engaged on a project they insist on being involved at every stage of the development and construction process, helping their clients with all aspects of the project, from concept through to final construction. Bonacci Group specialise in being at the forefront of designing economical building structures. The firm’s policy is to make sure that the client gets what they pay for; providing presence on-site, getting all documents to their clients in a timely manner, and making sure that any problems are quickly resolved. They have developed and built on these skills while working on signature projects such as the
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VIC Special Feature - AXA Centre
award-winning precast post-tensioned concrete design of the Dubai Creek Golf Club; the Royal Women’s Hospital, the stunning new law school at the University of NSW; and together with Grocon, the ambitious Queen Victoria redevelopment in central Melbourne – a project that takes up a whole city block. And now the stunning new AXA centre, in Melbourne’s Docklands, can be added to their list of prestigious developments. Bonacci Group’s team of engineers, working on the AXA centre project, included Nat Bonacci, Lou Piovesan, and Paul Luttick. In the interests of speed and economy, a decision was made to build with prefabricated material, where possible. As a result, the columns and core walls are built up out of precast concrete segments stitched together on-site with insitu concrete joints, to form structural elements. A large 13.2m x 8.4m column grid was accommodated by the use of fully post-tensioned concrete slabs and beams.
The unique conditions provided by building in the Docklands presented Bonacci Group with some challenges. In particular, the difficult Coode Island silts, upon which the AXA centre stands, necessitated a Vibropile CFA pile footing system socketed into the rock, 30 metres below ground level. The lower four levels of the building combine car parking and retail, while floors 5-10 are offices – AXA will be moving into this space as principal tenant soon. Perhaps the most interesting features of the design are the wintergardens and atriums – there are two main wintergardens and four main atrium spaces, open to the office environment and clad with an external glass curtain wall. Bonacci Group facilitated this daring design by determining an economical and efficient technique by which to support the facade and to provide support across the voids. Finally, the AXA centre building is capped by an interesting
steel framed roof, pitched at varying angles to enclose plant and equipment. In the 26 years that have passed since the foundation of the Company, as a two man team, Bonacci Group now forms a tight 100person team, spread over three states. In 2006, the firm received two prestigious BRW-St George Bank 2006 Client Choice Awards for “Most Innovative” and “Best Small Engineering Firm”. The Company continues to work on a wide range of projects in the structural, civil and environmental engineering disciplines. Bonacci Group consistently demonstrate they are genuinely a dynamic and progressive modern civil and structural engineering company – something they have again shown through their involvement with Grocon on the AXA centre development.
Bonacci Group 0 Hoddle Street Abbotsford VIC 30 p. 03 8 000 f. 03 8 00 e. lpiovesan@bonaccigroup.com www.bonaccigroup.com
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Holding it together
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ollins Street in Melbourne’s Docklands is lucky enough to be home to Grocon’s diverse new AXA Centre, with its 10 storey ‘ground-scraping’ design including spacious atriums, offices, retail space – a great new ‘campus style’ office development. A design as adventurous as the AXA Centre requires a team of great talent pulling together, from architectural services through to the financial. However in the most important sense, what holds everything together is steel - and in this area Fielders Steel Roofing are clearly an Australian market leader, particularly through their KingFlor range of products, Australia’s biggest selling range of steel formwork products. Since the 2000 introduction into the market of the KingFlor range, Fielders have supplied many of Australia’s largest multi-storey commercial
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VIC Special Feature - AXA Centre
projects. The KingFlor range of products includes the popular and versatile KF57 and, from very recently, the world first new steel formwork profile, KF40, specifically designed for the Australian construction industry. KF57 is, of course, an Australian classic; however, KF40 goes beyond. It is unmatched in providing efficiencies and cost savings in terms of cost and time – comparing it to any competitor is like comparing the iPod with the Walkman! Currently, Fielders are supplying some of Melbourne’s largest high-rise projects, many of whom are using the KF40 product. However, it is not only with their products that Fielders obtain the highest levels of excellence – along with product they provide great service and backup. Bringing a wealth of experience gained during the numerous large-scale projects with which
they’ve been involved, they are well equipped to provide excellent technical support, advising clients of their best options. Furthermore, they are also able to fit in with the kinds of demanding and tight schedules that a major CBD project such as the AXA Centre development necessitate. Fielders’ experience and reliability make them an obvious choice for developers working on high profile projects. This point is proven by the fact that, after their experience working with Fielders on the AXA centre, Grocon has chosen to work with Fielders Steel Roofing on their next major project, the C3 & C4 development. Fielders Steel Roofing, worked in conjunction with project manager Jason O’Hara of Grocon to determine the best steel formwork profile for the application required on the AXA project. Fielders provided design advice and technical assistance, in
order to determine and optimise the temporary propping requirements of the project. In the case of the AXA Centre development, Fielders supplied over 30,000m2 of the KF57 profile providing a structural steel formwork solution for the concrete framed building. Grocon’s choice to use KF57 steel formwork on this project was ideal in many respects, allowing them to utilise the product’s ability, through deeper pan stiffeners, to improve the aesthetic value of the deck profile for exposed ceiling areas. The use of KF57 also allowed Grocon to slash construction costs on the key components of the floor. On-site labour was significantly reduced, and much less storage space was required than is the case with conventional ply formwork materials and techniques. These advantages in turn reduced OH&S issues, and
improved site access and mobility by reducing on-site congestion. Thus, Fielders Steel Roofing were able to deliver Grocon with lower preparatory costs, fewer temporary props, less site congestion and fast tracked construction. Fielders Steel Roofing have once again shown that they are able to deliver clients truly excellent results: reliability, alongside great product, great service, great backup support, and a wealth of experience working on high-profile projects.
Fielders Australia Phone first on 1800 182 255 p. 08 8 3 f. 08 8 3 8 e. info@fielders.com.au www.fielders.com
VIC Special Feature - AXA Centre
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High wire act W
ith over forty years experience in the design and installation of deep foundations, Vibro-pile are strategically equipped to meet some of the unique problems associated with the construction of Melbourne’s new Axa Centre. Difficulties encountered with Coode Island silts flowing from the Yarra River delta and the possibility of low level soil contamination has determined that the Docklands project be constructed entirely above ground. Overcoming these obstacles saw the application of a Vibro-pile CFA pile arrangement with socketing into the rock some 30m below ground level. The Continuous Flight Auger pile is a nondisplacement pile used where fast vibration free installation is required in difficult ground conditions. The drilling process is ideal for penetrating dense layers and is unaffected by ground water or collapsing soil conditions. These groups of piles were designed for maximum efficiency and employed fully instrumented pile construction 88
VIC Special Feature - AXA Centre
and testing. The end result saved the builders Grocon both considerable time and money. The introduction of concrete injected screw piling and computer monitored piling came in the mid 90’s and was accompanied by Vibropile’s own adoption of concrete injected CFA piling, replacing the traditional grout injected system. Together with innovative geotechnical design, this has enabled the company to increase the capacity of this pile type, allowing it to secure contracts for which previously, the system might not have been considered viable. With “design and construct” piling now the industry norm, Vibro-pile has equipped itself well in terms of expert technical and construction personnel, together with advanced plant and piling systems, to compete efficiently in a highly competitive market. This means that an ethic is ensured where only soundly based innovative and efficient solutions are applied in
all its contracts. The design team has successfully re-engineered foundation solutions for some of Australia’s most high profile structures and specializes in “Design and Construct” contracts. Testimony to Vibro-pile’s success and continuing innovation is the number of awards the company has won in recent years from the Master Builders Associations of Victoria. These include a 2003 award for “Most Innovative Construction Method” for their work on Grocon’s Eureka Tower and awards in 2004 and 2005 for “Specialist Contractor Of The Year”.
Vibro-pile (Aust) Pty Ltd Steele Court Mentone VIC 3 p.03 8 f. 03 83 8 www.vibropile.com.au
Documenting the design A
rchitectural documentation specialists Webber & Associates played a key role in assisting Grocon in delivering the completed AXA building ahead of program. Webber & Associates, based in Adelaide, provided Grocon with a fixed fee for its documentation services after receiving a Design Development package prepared by the Architect. The completed documentation package consisted of some 300 drawings, specification and schedules.
Mr Webber began his Architectural documentation business 12 years ago, initially working alone in a home office. The company has steadily developed to become an industry leader and now employs around 25 people.
We attended weekly site meetings with Grocon representatives and assorted consultants throughout the project and provided updated electronic documentation via Aconex.
“We are very proud of our reputation for delivering thoroughly coordinated and accurate documentation of the highest quality to our valued clients.”
“We feel privileged to be involved in this exciting project, which has added such an intricate and dynamic building to the landscape of Docklands,” says Managing Director Geoff Webber.
With a number of major projects “on the go” across Australia and looking to overseas, Mr Webber is expecting to double his workforce over the next 12 months and he is actively looking for skilled, experienced people.
Webber & Associates Level 0 0 Pirie St Adelaide SA 000 p. 08 8 0 f. 08 8 0 0 m. 0 08 003 8 e. gwebber@waa.net.au
VIC Special Feature - AXA Centre
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Special Feature | M
on Mary
Majestic M on Mary The Hutchinson Builders project has been outstanding not only for the quality of the development, but also for the efficiency and cooperation between the subcontractors, developers and stakeholders
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he $250 million M on Mary development is one of Brisbane’s newest landmark projects. Located in close proximity to the CBD, the hi-rise residential project incorporates 367 designer apartments over 44 levels. With the current almost insatiable demand for high quality inner city residential living, M on Mary is set to provide the very best the City of Brisbane has to offer. The Hutchinson Builders project has been outstanding not only for the quality of the development, but also for the efficiency and cooperation between the subcontractors, developers and stakeholders. This has resulted in a significant number of innovations to both methodology and cost savings. It is perhaps fitting that Hutchinson Builders celebrate their 95th anniversary by creating a development that encapsulates the abilities and aspirations of the iconic Queensland company. Family owned and operated since 1912 Hutchinson Builders, or Hutchies as they have 0 QLD Special Feature - M on Mary
become affectionately known are responsible for some of the best known developments within the state including the award winning Kingfisher Bay Resort on Queensland’s Fraser Island. However their endeavours are not limited to Queensland and the company has successfully undertaken projects in New Zealand and Canada as well as numerous projects in NSW including the Sir Henry Parkes Memorial School of Arts in Tenterfield NSW. It is a well known factor that company loyalty is on the decline in today’s fast paced world so it is refreshing to see an organisation that instils a sense of belonging and rewards excellence. With over four generations of experience within the company Hutchinson Builders now have a young and energetic Managing Director, Greg Quinn, who is keen to promote the values and standards that have been the key to the company’s success over the years. Hutchinson’s attentiveness to both their clients and their own
QLD Special Feature - M on Mary
employees has ensured the company is placed in a unique position for this day and age. A position where loyalty from both clients and employees is a significant factor in the company’s success – this is a factor the company is keen to promote with over 605 company members and 81 apprentices and cadets who are receiving the knowledge and education of their training combined with the valuable experience of older hands, some who have been with the company their full working life. Hutchinson Builders have experience over a wide range of projects and project types, from clubs and entertainment facilities, commercial office developments, retail projects, education and nursing facilities, tourism and community projects through to maintenance and minor works, exclusive residential homes and beach houses. With all their projects Hutchinson Builders’ delivery methods are adopted to suit their clients’ best interests whether it is a large commercial development or a smaller, but no less important, residential project. M on Mary illustrates the scope of Hutchinson’s abilities. The latest in environmental initiatives have been incorporated into every stage of the project including procurement, construction techniques that minimise waste, environmentally sensitive materials, and final design initiatives such as passive solar enhancements to minimise overheating, rainwater harvesting, low emission air-conditioning and low energy lighting. During the project there was significant community consultation and a dedication to the required training and safety of all on site sub contractors and employees that again reflects the company’s respect for their workforce. Perhaps the greatest achievement of the project aside from the creation of an elegant and prestigious new landmark development in Brisbane is the clear illustration that secure principles and a sound understanding of what generates success are entirely compatible with a dedication to the needs of the client and the workforce. Success for Hutchinson Builders is measured in far broader terms than simply completion and handover.
Hutchinson Builders Head Office 8 Milton Road Milton QLD 4066 Locked Bag 300 Toowong QLD 4066 t. 0 333 000 f. 0 333 00 e. info@hutchinsonbuilders.com.au www.hutchinsonbuilders.com.au
QLD Special Feature - M on Mary
Interior view - M on Mary
Well qualified services
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he M on Mary project sets new standards in professionalism and quality across a broad range commercial development fields. From the environmentally sustainable initiatives employed during construction through to the safe work practices exercised on-site and on to the finished quality of the Hutchinson Builders development. Engaged by Hutchinson at the outset, Gaskin Construction Services were instrumental in the introduction of Hutchinson to the developers. They also provided their services during the tendering process and worked closely with Hutchinson to establish processes and protocols for construction methodology, programming, construction costing and risk mitigation. Gaskin Construction Services are well qualified to deliver their services, the founder of the company, John Gaskin, has had extensive experience in the industry spanning over 35 years. He has worked successfully on some of Queensland’s most prestigious developments and during his
career he has collaborated closely with industry, government, and many advisory bodies. The company reflects its founder’s principles – the delivery of client focused results, with a strong emphasis on the establishment of productive and lasting relationships. This human aspect of Gaskin Construction Services often delivers results far and above those achieved by a less practical approach. The company operates in a broad range of consultative areas, including general construction, construction costs, feasibility, administration assistance, industrial relations, and design consultancy. Naturally the company is delighted to have been involved with Hutchinson Builders and the M on Mary Project. Gaskin Construction Services congratulates the developer Skycorp Developments with the vision to proceed with the project and Hutchinson Builders for their quality and delivery of the project Gaskin Construction Services Ground Floor Eagle Street Brisbane QLD 4000 p. 0 3 f. 0 3 m. 0 88 88 e. john@gaskin.com.au
QLD Special Feature - M on Mary
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Crystal clear concepts A long standing relationship between G James and Hutchinson Builders and the cooperation and goodwill the two companies share is clearly evident for all to see in the completion of this highly prestigious building
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nterestingly G.James Glass & Aluminium and Hutchinson Builders have 1912 as a significant year in their corporate history’s. That year G.James founder, George James, arrived in Australia from England while Hutchinson Builders began operations. With both companies sharing such long and proud histories, through good times and bad, it suggests strong and confident leadership, a consideration for the safety and well being of their employees, dedication to their clients and perhaps an element of good fortune – not to be confused with luck. Now with the successful completion of yet another Brisbane CBD landmark project
QLD Special Feature - M on Mary
namely ‘M on Mary’, it again demonstrates why these two companies have become leaders in their respective fields. G.James Glass and Aluminium were engaged by Hutchinson Builders to supply and install all the windows, doors, glass balustrades, balconies and shop fronts on the project. “We worked very closely with Hutchinson to ensure our side of the project went to plan”, says a G.James spokesman, “It is always a pleasure to work with a company that provides such clear and thorough communication”. Things went very well and we are extremely pleased with the result.
We have worked with Hutchinson on a number of occasions in the past and G.James is delighted to be working with Hutchinson Builders once again. The results of the long standing relationship between G.James and Hutchinson Builders and the cooperation and good will the two companies share is clearly evident for all to see in the completion of this highly prestigious 44 level building set atop a 4 storey commercial podium. It is a relationship that is sure to benefit both companies long into the future.
G James Glass & Aluminium Pty Ltd 00 Kingsford Smith Drive Eagle Farm QLD 4009 p. 0 38 0 f. 0 38 e. commercial@gjames.com.au www.gjames.com.au
QLD Special Feature - M on Mary
Aiming high
QLD Special Feature - M on Mary
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he $250 million M on Mary development is one of Brisbane’s newest and most prestigious projects. Located in close proximity to the CBD, the project incorporates 367 designer apartments over 44 levels. With the current high demand for inner city residential living, M on Mary has had to compete with the best the city has to offer. In this respect the project has excelled, due in part to the focus by the developers on engaging the very best tradesmen, contractors and consultants to ensure the highest standards were in practice.
Hanchard Crane Hire was one of the first companies to become involved with the M on Mary project, providing mobile cranes to enable the drill rigs to complete the foundation and pile work. This aspect of the project required considerable skill due to the three story depth of the excavations. Particular attention was applied to the calculations for the outrigger loading to ensure a safe and efficient program of operations. The resultant work was completed within time and budget guidelines, and to a standard well above the expected.
Hanchard Crane Hire is a well known name in the industry, with a fleet of cranes ranging from 2.9T mini cranes right up to their newest acquisitions of 80 tonne and 220 tonne All Terrain cranes. Hanchard has also acquired a new work platform – the first of its kind in Australia. The company specializes in compact city cranes, designed for working in tight spaces, and all terrain cranes for most sites. The company recently celebrated its 10th anniversary, and during their time they have developed strong work practices and operational procedures that have allowed them to build a comprehensive and diverse client base. Their core beliefs of attention to detail, stringent adherence to OH&S protocols, and a desire to provide the very best in services and solutions to their clients, have ensured the longevity of Hanchard.
The professionalism of all parties involved on the M on Mary project was impressive, and Hanchard Crane Hire is proud to have been able to contribute to the success of the project. Their input into the development has already enhanced their already strong reputation.
Hanchard Crane Hire PO Box Archerfield QLD 4108 p. 0 3 33 f. 0 3 3 e. hanchardcranes@bigpond.com.au
Ferm Engineering Pty Ltd Brisbane Office Unit 2/37 Davey Street Moorooka QLD 4105 p. 0 3 00 f. 0 3 e. ferm@ferm.com.au Sunshine Coast Office 8 Nicklin Way Warana QLD 4575 p. 0 3 f. 0 3 e. keith@ferm.com.au
A Ferm grip M
on Mary is one of Brisbane’s newest residential high rise developments, consisting of 44 levels and 367 apartments. The $250 million project is seen as providing a template for future inner city/CBD development with sound environmental and energy efficient principles endorsed by the developer. Ferm Engineering was engaged by the developers to undertake the fire engineering and modelling for the project, as well as the design of the sprinkler systems. The company is well suited to the demands of large-scale development fire engineering, and it’s staff has had extensive experience over a number of years on some of Queensland’s and the country’s prestigious developments including Port of Brisbane, Bond University, Brisbane International Airport, Griffith University Southbank Mirvac Apartments, Billabong, The Warehouse and Downer Energy Co-Generation Power Station.
M on Mary engaged Ferm to consult on fire, safety, develop thermal computer models to assess potential risk areas, including egress planning and fire spread control systems. An innovative fire pump system was incorporated into the development, which combined both the hydrant and the sprinkler system requirements to reduce space while maintaining reliable performance. Ferm Engineering is a multi-disciplined practice with skills in fire engineering, building services, and mechanical and fire protection. In operation since 2001, the company has successfully drawn experienced professionals from a variety of fields to provide a broad and expansive base of knowledge on which considered and detailed assessments and decisions can be made. The youth of the company also adds to their fresh approach, with new and inventive - yet practical - solutions a key aspect of their operations. Designing from a broad range of Australian and International accredited systems through their design team, Ferm Engineering is able to offer services including smoke control systems, thermal, smoke and heat modelling, general ventilation, kitchen, car park and toilet exhaust systems, and a variety of deluge, mist water, foam sprinkler systems and an extensive array of
passive fire systems. They also provide evacuation plans and protocols, testing and audit services, fire detection and alarms, and emergency warning and intercommunication systems. The company is well versed in testing and research, audits and certification, design consultation, and construction training services including liaison and coordination and software modelling using the latest in house modelling tools and commercially available software. It has affiliations with Efectis in the Netherlands and BRANZ Fire for guidance on testing products. Ferm Engineering’s involvement with the M on Mary project has provided a fresh insight into the company’s ability to undertake large scale projects with professionalism and innovation. Where the comfort and safety of corporate assets and residents is paramount, it is gratifying to know that Ferm has spared no ideas in the development of systems that will ensure residents’ protection and offers more than just a solution.
QLD Special Feature - M on Mary
CERTIS Pty Ltd / Finchley Street Milton QLD 4064 p. 0 33 f. 0 33 e. certis@certis.com.au www.certis.com.au
Certified excellence C
ERTIS is one of Australia’s construction industry preferred building certifiers with an established and growing client base in South East Queensland, North Queensland, North New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. CERTIS has built a respected reputation in the industry on years of consistently delivering high value practical building solutions. These solutions maintain essential fire and life safety standards for building end-users but also offer substantial project and life cycle cost savings for clients. “All of the work CERTIS undertakes is generated from ‘word-of-mouth’ referral, with 80 per cent being repeat business,” Says Bob Wallis from CERTIS, “we are known for getting the job done and removing any unnecessary bureaucratic steps along the way.” CERTIS specialises in large commercial and apartment developments, as well as the industrial and retail sectors and delivers the following services: 8 QLD Special Feature - M on Mary
•Concept and preliminary design consultation •Performance Based Design Solutions •Fire Engineered Solutions •Building Certification •Tenancy Fit-out Certification •Compliance inspections In the case of M on Mary, CERTIS was engaged to certify the 44 storey base building and the Tenancy Fitout of the 4 storey commercial podium. “Being engaged early on in the design process we were able to identify a number of options to optimise costs of the building’s design.” Explained Denis Clignon CERTIS’ senior Building Certifier engaged on the project, “Being located in the heart of Brisbane City CBD the site was constrained by neighbouring existing development, which caused a number of fire egress issues. Particularly we were able to resolve an egress issue from the basement car park where street access was restricted at the rear and sides of the building. Discharge was considered possible via the ground floor podium and this was
verified through working with our Fire Engineering partners FERM Engineering.” In consultation with the architects Angelo Nicolosi and Associates CERTIS were also able to rationalise sprinkler coverage throughout the building. This allowed for deletion of sprinklers in areas such as balconies and wet areas. Travel distances in the upper storey apartments were also required to be considered and a performance solution developed to allow appropriate flexibility. “We developed an excellent relationship with the construction team from Hutchinson’s,” Says Clignon, “Through proactively adopting a joint preliminary inspection of several of the lower floors early in the construction phase – we were able to make our expectations fully understood.” This proved to be a model for the remaining floors and the project was finalised with the minimal disruption and efficiency CERTIS has become renowned for.
Getting a lift T
he Otis Elevator Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of United Technologies Corporation. Otis employs approximately 60,000 people worldwide and services more than 1.45 million elevators in over 200 countries. This makes Otis a truly multinational company with the ability to draw on the knowledge, skills and local insights provided by a worldwide platform. For the M on Mary Project in Brisbane, Otis supplied and installed one Otis Gen2 ™ machineroom-less elevator serving the podium levels, and four OTIS4000 gearless elevators serving the tower. This high profile project provided an ideal opportunity for Otis to showcase its OTIS4000 product. A pre-engineered, quality, mid to highrise gearless system. The OTIS 4000 is designed and manufactured as a specific ‘model’ product and incorporates the very latest in variable frequency drive control, microprocessor technology and intelligent
A stunning example of a Gen2 Otis Elevator - a customised design for a cinema centre in Lünen, Germany
modular design. These model elevators are at the forefront of the company’s residential market programme. With speeds up to 3.5 m/s the OTIS4000 units provide a cost effective, efficient and reliable alternative for large scale residential developments. Significantly, the speed of installation is greatly enhanced by the complete unit delivery, on site pre-engineered and ready to install. The simplicity of the installation process provides major timesavings for developers. The Gen2 elevator servicing the podium levels incorporates flat polyurethane coated steel belts - as opposed to conventional steel cable. The flat belt design boasts a significant improvement in energy efficiency over conventional, geared elevators. The advanced design of the Gen2 system integrates the machine and its supporting structure within the hoist way, eliminating the need for a machine room and thereby increasing usable space. The Gen2 range is also unsurpassed in passenger safety and reliability.
The streamlined component design results in faster installation times and improved acoustics, smoothness, and longevity. Being 20% lighter, lasting 2 to 3 times longer and with no need for lubricating oils, the Gen2 steel belts and machine have become a worldwide benchmark within the industry. Otis Elevator Company is dedicated to providing safe, efficient and client tailored solutions for a wide range of developments and projects. The company’s involvement in the M on Mary Project highlighted both their dedication towards enhanced product development and adaptability and the efficiency of delivery and installation for which Otis has become well known. Otis Elevator Company Pty Ltd 8 Melbourne St South Brisbane QLD 4101 p. 0 38 f. 0 38
QLD Special Feature - M on Mary
Tip top tiles T
he excellence and prestige of a commercial high-rise development is generated not only from the skill of the builders, architects and other contractors involved. Excellence is also created by the standard of fittings and the procurement of the very best quality available.
OZTOP Pty Ltd was engaged by Hutchinson Builders to add their skills to this level of excellence and assist in ensuring the M on Mary development becomes a true landmark of distinction in Brisbane’s CBD.
Boardwalk, The Woolstore, and Coronation on Residences; they are now one of the largest suppliers of tiles to Hutchinson for their commercial developments. For M on Mary, OZTOP supplied all the tiling requirements for the project. More than 30,000sqm of high quality tiles for the bathrooms and interior of the apartments was supplied – as well as tiling for exterior areas. They also provided marble stone and granite to penthouse apartments and public area of the building.
Based in Brisbane and operating for the past 12 years, OZTOP has established a strong reputation founded on the principle of quality of product and service without compromise. The company’s aim is to deliver the very best at the most competitive price.
The bulk of the tiles were of two kinds, superior quality pure white vitreous wall tiles for the bathrooms and wet areas and salmon-coloured tiles for internal flooring areas. The white tiles were obtained and produced to a special OEM order – being the ‘whitest’ vitreous tiles available in the market. Likewise, the salmon tiles were one of a kind, with distinct colour that has never been used in any other project. OZTOP also sourced and supplied matching salmon exterior tiles.
Having established a strong working relationship with Hutchinson Builders on a number of developments including the Oxford on The
To ensure their high standards were maintained, OZTOP’s quality control team were on hand at the Chinese factory to make certain proto-
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cols for colour match and product tolerance remained to their satisfaction. The considerable efforts that went into the colour and pattern matching of tiles guarantee a perfect finish on the project. Their experience has helped them find superior quality and assurance from a nation whose products were considered unreliable before. OZTOP supply a wide range of product from tiles to carpet, granites, marble, and slabs for kitchen work surfaces. They are able to deliver Australia wide and are currently in the process of entering a joint venture with a Malaysian manufacturing plant to increase their control of product quality and position the company to be able to deliver to the South East Asian market.
OZTOP Pty Ltd Unit 1, 49 Allgas Street Slacks Creek QLD 4127 p. 0 3380 88 f. 0 3808 3 e. sales@oztop.com.au
An outstanding finish T
he prestigious residential high rise development M on Mary, consists of 44 levels and 367 apartments. With a development cost of $250 million, the project is a revolutionary addition to Brisbane’s CBD. The Hutchinson Builders project has become synonymous with quality, as has AF Sarri. With a 53 year background in their trade, AF Sarri specialises in painting, finishes, and texture coating for the construction and development industry. The company prides itself on its expertise, safety and ability to produce the highest of standards within constraining time and budget requirements. AF Sarri is well known in south east Queensland for its work on major commercial projects and new construction, having recently completed works on the GOMA Project (Millennium Gallery of Modern Art) and State Library Buildings,
Trilogy Units Spring Hill and SW1 Southbank Precinct. They are currently involved on the Brisbane International Airport Extension, which is under construction. Engaged on the M on Mary development, AF Sarri provided internal painting and external texture finishes to the project. The high external walls, soffits, and hoods provided a challenge for the tradesmen undertaking the preparation, patching, primer, sealer and first texture coats within the slip screen formwork as it progressed up the building. They were nonetheless able to create the safe and efficient application and preparation of the required texture coats. Internally, AF Sarri used Taubmans Easycoat flat and low sheen for ceilings and walls and Supreme Gloss for doors and trims. For the external work, the company used Armawall
satin texture finish, which provided the required durability and ease of application while maintaining the vision of the architects. The results speak for themselves, and AF Sarri is delighted to have been associated with Hutchinson Builders and Taubmans Paints in the creation of an outstanding development that not only enhances their own already strong reputation, but also improves the City of Brisbane.
AF Sarri Pty Ltd Painters & Decorators BSA 53690 / 0 Newmarket Rd Windsor QLD 4030 p. 0 38 f. 0 33 3 frank@afsarri.com.au
QLD Special Feature - M on Mary
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Lifting hopes M
aster Lifts is one of Australia’s premier manufactures and suppliers of residential and commercial lifts and lifting platforms. The company has a broad range of products ranging from goods lifts and passenger lifts, through to specialised lifting platforms, stair lifts, spa and swimming pool lifts, and dumb waiters. Whether sourced from their overseas suppliers or manufactured by Master Lifts in Australia, of paramount concern to the company is the quality and pricing of the products supplied. Hutchinson Builders engaged Master Lifts to supply and install a stainless steel PSL dumbwaiter for the M on Mary Project. “This was quite an unusual request,” Says Angela Wakefield a Director of Master Lifts, “But with dumbwaiters in particular we find that people often have very specific needs and want the lift made to specific dimensions, Master Lifts can always cater for that. Our entire product range is very flexible,” Wakefield adds, “whether it’s a dumbwaiter, a full size vertical lift, or platforms to take wheelchair users up a few stairs – most can be customised for a wide range of varied uses.” 0 QLD Special Feature - M on Mary
The M on Mary dumb-waiter was required to provide a means of transporting goods from a storage area on level one to a restaurant on level three, a total distance of six metres. Having a storage area on level one allows the restaurant to receive deliveries easily and transfer goods via the dumbwaiter to level three as required. Michael Wade of Brisbane’s Chill On Queen Restaurant and Vodka Bar recently had a Master Lifts dumb-waiter installed for very similar purposes, “The ERGO-SLIDE vertically bi-parting doors are finger-tip light,” Wade says, “it is important to us that our staff incur minimum lifting effort.” Wade was also keen to point out that in today’s workplace with its strict Workcover requirements – it is the responsibility of the employer to ensure employees operate in a safe environment. The dumb-waiter reduces the risks involved with carrying food, stock or supplies over extended distances. Master Lifts operates nationally with over 26 centres covering every part of the country. The company supplies, installs, and maintains a wide
range of lifts with a particular focus on the residential and disabled access market. Master Lifts’ participation in the M on Mary project is a good illustration of the adaptability and ingenuity. Naturally, they are very proud of their involvement in the landmark project.
Master Lifts Pty Ltd PO Box Virginia QLD 4014 p. 0 3 3 f. 0 3 0 info@masterlifts.com.au www.masterlifts.com.au
Stoddart Metal Fabrications Jackson Road Sunnybank Hills QLD 4109 p. 0 33 0 f. 0 33 000 e. jmundy@stoddart.com.au
Masters of metal T
he M on Mary development in Brisbane is intended to provide the very best of living along with the very best that living can provide. Integral to the relaxed and open atmosphere envisaged for the development is the restaurant and bar on levels one and three respectively. No expense has been spared to ensure these areas meet with the exacting demands and expectations of residents and visitors. Stoddart Manufacturing were engaged by Hutchison Builders to ensure the fit-out of these areas was completed efficiently, professionally and with the attention to detail the company has become known for. Having recently completed projects such as the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, Suncorp Stadium, and The Boulevard Hotel in Sydney, Stoddart was the ideal choice for the project with the expertise and experience of large-scale development necessary to complete the project brief within the desired parameters.
Established in 1959, Stoddart Manufacturing has grown over the years in both reputation and size. Originally the company operated as a general sheet metal fabrication business with a strong emphasis on the fabrication of hot water systems. Today, employing over 350 people in three separate factories and sales offices, Stoddart has diversified and evolved into one of the countries premier stainless steel fabrication companies – mainly supplying its products to the food service and building industries. The company specialises in the provision of large commercial fit-outs for kitchens and bars in many areas including hospitality, retirement complexes and aged care facilities, hospitals and restaurants. For the M on Mary Project Stoddart Manufacturing were involved in the provision and installation of the cool rooms, refrigeration, beer reticulation and exhaust hoods.
Stoddart Manufacturing has always had a clear focus on the quality of both service and product. Considerable and astute investment in cutting edge technology for the design and manufacture of kitchens has positioned the company well, “Stoddart’s technology and processes are unique in the kitchen contracting industry in Australia.” Explains Company Director Jeff Mundy, “Our significant investment in leading edge technology for the design and manufacture of kitchens, means we deliver exceptional quality – this quality is not just in the finished product but also in the project management, through our team of CAD draftsmen, project supervisors and site crews. In addition, our in-house expertise in areas such as Occupational Health & Safety means we ensure seamless coordination of kitchens, bars and refrigeration.”
QLD Special Feature - M on Mary
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Special Feature | Trilogy on the Esplanade
Triple treats With the Trilogy on the Esplanade now completed, and already a familiar sight in Cairns, Lachlan Tipler states that he is happy that the project has come to fruition and he is satisfied that it now represents a milestone in Cairns
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ith sweeping vistas across the Cairns inlet and the mountains, the Trilogy On The Esplanade development is located in landscaped gardens on one of the Queensland coast’s most popular beach resorts. Each of the thoroughly appointed apartments in the development is designed and fitted-out to the highest standards, offering residents the opportunity to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle in a well-designed modern building. It is unsurprising that even prior to completion there was interest in the apartments. In addition to the multilevel residential space, Trilogy On The Esplanade also features twofloors of dedicated retail space, a gymnasium, day spa, and pool, as well as car parking facilities. As specialists in design and construct Laing O’Rourke were called upon for the Trilogy On The Esplanade project, with a recent portfolio that includes the Koko Apartments in Brisbane, the company were the obvious choice for the
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project. Laing O’Rourke’s dedicated on-site staff team of 15, including site managers and foreman, along with their highly experienced subcontractor base and design consultants, insured the company was able to guarantee the quality of the service and dedicated workmanship it is known for. Managing the development from the concept design stage of the project through to final completion enabled Laing O’Rourke to bring the project in on time and budget. The development was unique in that the site was already occupied by a nine-storey hotel, which had to be demolished prior to the commencement of construction of Trilogy on The Esplanade Tower 2. This process was further complicated by the presence of two retail floors located on Level 1 and 2 of the existing structure, which remained occupied during the demolition of the 9-storey hotel and the construction of Tower 2.
In order to facilitate the construction process many of the vertical structural elements for Tower 2 and 3 were constructed in pre-cast concrete. These were manufactured off site. Construction Manager Lachlan Tipler said, the company opened a pre-cast yard in Cairns, which enabled them to manufacture the pre-cast elements and then deliver them to the site as needed. These elements included the pre-cast wall panels that had to be meticulously designed to fit correctly, with each floor using 30 panels. This necessitated thorough and detailed planning to ensure that each element was manufactured, delivered and installed according to a precise schedule. Laing O’Rourke developed a system that insured each floor cycle was constructed in a timely manner to ensure the project progressed on time to meet the construction program milestones.
The interior dividing walls between units on each floor were designed using a lightweight partition wall system to achieve both fire and sound resistance requirements between occupancy units. Lightweight Hebel Block was used on all the Services Risers to both buildings. The use of these tested systems combined with Laing O’Rourke’s Quality Assurance program implemented on the project will ensure that residents enjoy living in the building. Each apartment was fitted-out to the highest standards.
Laing O’Rourke PO Box 0 Cairns QLD 4870 p. 0 0 0 f. 0 0 0 www.laingorourke.com.au
With the Trilogy On The Esplanade now completed and already a familiar sight in Cairns, Lachlan Tipler states that he is happy that the project has come to fruition and he is satisfied that it now represents one of the milestones in Cairns.
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Solid as rock
Barsteel Masonry m. 0406 662 962 e. barsteelmasonry@optusnet.com.au
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stablished by Graham Pohle in 2001, the trading name “Barsteel Masonry” has become synonymous with Masonry Trade Works on large scale Construction Projects in QLD and NSW. Barsteel Masonry boasts an ever-growing portfolio that includes Masonry Contracts completed for correctional centres with the NSW Department of Public Works. During the 2005-2006 downturn in Sydney NSW, Barsteel Masonry took the opportunity to branch out into QLD and it’s far North, winning Masonry Contracts with Barclay Mowlem, now known as Laing O’Rourke, where Barsteel Masonry was contracted to do the blockwork. While the project was highly successful, the heavy rains in the wet season hampered the speed of construction. Although the inclement weather was frustrating, it did not detract from the Company’s contribution to the Project and Barsteel Masonry completed their works on the Trilogy Towers on the Esplanade Project in 18 months.
Barsteel Masonry has number of teams made up of dedicated tradesman & skilled labour. It’s not uncommon for Barsteel Masonry to have 20-30 workers on the books at any one given time however, North Queensland is experiencing a building boom which may last several years, resulting in a shortage of local trades and labour. With the Company’s Head Office in Sydney, Barsteel Masonry has the advantage of enticing trades and labour from their NSW operations, which enables them to provide their clients with construction speed, which in the Building Game means money in the bank. The modest success Barsteel Masonry has achieved, stems largely from it’s policies to combine traditional methods with today’s technology and in an Industry that is constantly changing with the times, Barsteel Masonry embraces an attitude that recognises the importance of experience, diligence and skill.
Dazzling designers W
ith more than 30-years experience in Queensland and New South Wales, Ainsley Bell & Murchison are architects with an extensive portfolio. AB+M director Peter McCabe says the company has had a large impact in Cairns, as architects for the Courthouse-Police Station, the 16 storey Cairns Corporate Tower and many boutique office buildings. The company also enjoys a niche position as architects for the hotel and resort market, as well as designing golf clubhouses including Pelican Waters, Brookwater and the Vintage in the Hunter Valley. AB+M operate an on going training scheme throughout the company, and run a mentoring scheme that enables younger staff members to develop skills and consolidate their experience. This forms both a part of the company’s quality
assurance programme. It ensures the company maintains the quality of it’s work, and is an investment into the future of the practice and the wider industry.
architects dedicated to the project, and maintained a presence throughout the construction process. This enabled AB+M to collaborate on the project, as well as maintain the quality of their work.
The Trilogy On The Esplanade development was constructed in two phases, with stage one finished in 2005 and stage two completed in July. Peter McCabe observes the development created some unusual design challenges. With restaurants and a shopping precinct operating on the Esplanade below, and the demolition of the former hotel, construction of Trilogy necessitated careful design development. AB+M cleverly arranged the residential towers on the podium to maximise the water views from the units.
With the Trilogy On The Esplanade now completed, AB+M are working on numerous resort and mixed development projects on the Gold and Sunshine Coasts involving urban redevelopment as well as Greenfield sites.
Winning the Trilogy contract, AB+M had six
AB+M Architects Arthur street Fortitude valley QLD 4006 p. 0 3 0 f. 0 3 0 e. admin@abm.net.au
QLD Special Feature - Trilogy On The Esplanade
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Safety first P
rojects of the nature of Trilogy On The Esplanade consist of a wide variety of different use areas ranging from underground car parking to residential tower and retail precincts. The differing requirements and structures of these areas impact significantly on the design of the fire services and sprinkler system. Laing O’Rourke considered it essential that a company well versed in major project fire services be involved to ensure the most suitable and efficient design was adopted.
and dedicated personnel; this is an asset that cannot be overlooked. When dealing with individual offices the client is in fact dealing with a company that has been established for over 50 years and has undertaken hundreds of projects all around the country. The professionalism and experience of Chubb Fire is clear in the services they have provided for Laing O’Rourke with the Trilogy On The Esplanade project.
To this end, Chubb Fire Services in Cairns was engaged to provide the complete sprinkler design, supply, installation and accreditation for the entire project. They also provided the Fire extinguishers and will continue to maintain these services as part of their contract. Chubb are one of the largest fire services companies in Australia with a network of offices in all states and territories throughout the country. The size of the Chubb organisation provides individual offices with access to a vast knowledge base and network of experienced
Chubb Fire Pty Ltd PO Box 1955 Ashfield NSW 2131 p 02 9930 4222 f. 02 9930 4404
Cabinet members
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aing O’Rourke’s investment in the prestigious Trilogy On The Esplanade Project is a good indication of the high growth that Far North Queensland is currently experiencing. With a strong focus on quality fit out and inclusions, the project has drawn together some of the regions most skilled tradesmen and contractors. Ace Cabinets and Laing O’Rourke have completed other projects with great success in the past, including most recently the Amphora Resort in Palm Cove. Although both companies are well suited to the high standards required for a project of this nature it was Ace Cabinets competitive tender that guaranteed their involvement. Ace Cabinets are always very keen to ensure that projects are undertaken well within the required time frame and budget costing – this dedication to project parameters has seen them develop a strong and loyal customer base over their years in the business. For the Trilogy On The Esplanade project Ace provided kitchens joinery, vanity units, and robes for the 90+ apartments in the development. Currently they are involved in providing joinery services for over 140 units on various other projects throughout the region.
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Although mainly undertaking operations in the far north of Queensland, Ace Cabinets have completed work in many other areas of the state including Brisbane. The company is a relatively small operation, driven by a desire for excellence and quality in their work. But with the capacity to provide the speed and accuracy of ‘Nested Base Manufacturing’, (computer aided one step manufacture) Ace Cabinets are also able to produce high volume, high accuracy product ideal for large scale projects. This ability to service a diverse range of project types with exceptional quality is well illustrated by their involvement with the Trilogy On The Esplanade development. As with all their work, Ace Cabinets are naturally very proud to have been involved.
Ace Cabinets PO Box 559 Tolga QLD 4882 p. 07 4095 4988 f. 07 4095 5370
Bright sparks
Babinda Electrics Newell Street Cairns QLD 4878 p. 0 0 0 00 f. 0 0 0 0 e. admin@babinda-electrics.com.au
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abinda Electrics are a family run business based in Cairns with more than 36 years experience in the electrical and mechanical industries. The company employ 200 highly skilled tradespeople, in addition to operating an ongoing training scheme, with an estimated 10% of their staff being apprentices. Such a dedication to their profession has enabled Babinda Electrics to maintain their position at the forefront of the industry in Queensland. The company have worked on infrastructure developments, medium to large-scale residential projects, commercial construction, and industrial developments, and are able to boast a portfolio that includes high profile projects such as Cairns Airport and Cairns Harbour Lights. As company spokesperson Peter Grayson states Babinda Electrics are “geared up for larger jobs”. For the Trilogy On The Esplanade development the company provided all electrics, communications, mains, and switchboards, using what Peter
Grayson describes as “tried and tested methods”. With Trilogy on the Esplanade designed to be at the forefront of quality residential housing in Cairns the buildings are designed to incorporate optional hi-tech extras, including broadband Internet access. In order that apartments are able to gain access to broadband Babinda Electrics have fitted the necessary wiring which residents can choose to connect to should they want to. Peter puts the success of the company’s contribution to the development down to the “good team” who worked on the project, and whose expertise brought Babinda Electric’s contract to a satisfactory conclusion. With Cairns undergoing something of a boom in construction, Babinda Electrics are well placed to take advantage of the expanding construction industry in the city, and Trilogy On The Esplanade marks another successfully completed project. QLD Special Feature - Trilogy On The Esplanade
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Special Feature | Allisee Apartments
A new lease on life It is comparable to resort style living, with three swimming pools, including a metre lap pool and barbeque facilities that enhance the quality of the outside environment and allow neighbours the opportunity to get to know one another
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he Gold Coast’s prestigious North Shore has an impressive new addition with the completion of Stage 1 of the Allisee Apartments project. The luxurious, 2 and 3 bedroom resort style apartments were developed by Baulderstone Hornibrook; a company largely known for its commitment to quality, and service excellence in construction. Construction of the $62 million development started in January 2006, after a detailed planning process over 1 ½ years that ensured every construction and layout issue was considered. This, coupled with the experience and expertise of Baulderstone Hornibrook, has ended in a great result. At its peak the project employed a workforce of 220 people. The Allisee Apartments were completed at the start of June 2007, right on schedule.
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The Allisee Apartments project consists of 113 residential apartments across 4 unique and innovative buildings, each with direct views of Surfers Paradise and South Stradbroke Island. Also incorporated into the development is a range of leisure and recreational features such as walking trails, tennis courts, a gymnasium and flourishing landscaped gardens. In addition to this it boasts its own sheltered internal harbour, with boat access straight onto Broadwater. It is comparable to resort style living, with three swimming pools, including a 25 metre lap pool and barbeque facilities that enhance the quality of the outside environment and allow neighbours the opportunity to get to know one another. Baulderstone Hornibrooks’s skill and expertise in the development of these projects has come
from years of hard work and commitment to quality. The organisation specialises in a range of large scale engineering and construction projects in many sectors including the commercial and residential sectors. Some recent project examples include the Stillwater Apartments at Hope Island, Adobe Apartments in Sydney, the iconic Adelaide Advertiser office building, and the Homebush Business Village. Baulderstone Hornibrook has been a major part of Australian construction for more than 50 years and has set a solid benchmark in the construction industry. Originally two separate companies, Baulderstone and Hornibrook, their individual success has paralleled one another,
Baulderstone Hornibrook Level 0, 3 8 Edward St Brisbane QLD 4000 p. 0 383 0 f. 0 383 0 www.bh.com.au
QLD Special Feature - Allisee Apartments
both completing major projects throughout Australia in the health, mining and infrastructure sectors. Their merger in 1985 allowed for project operations to expand overseas to New Zealand, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia and China, and further strengthened their sterling reputation in Australian construction.
as water tanks for rain harvesting and bore water for irrigation. Queensland’s vibrant sun is also put to good use with natural light a major incorporation in the projects design which has huge savings on energy costs. These measures have resulted in an ESD rating of 3 ½ stars.
In 1993 the company was attained by Bilfinger Berger AG, meaning it can now use the expertise, knowledge and resources of one of the worlds largest construction companies to deliver that same integrated expertise to clients here in Australia.
The completion of the Allisee Apartments marks the end of the first stage of the two stage project. Baulderstone Hornibrook will be completing the second stage which will consist of 87 more apartments.
Baulderstone Hornibrook is today one of Australia’s largest integrated engineering, building and service providers and can provide for the lifetime of a property including design, construction and infrastructure management.
Throughout the planning and construction process Baulderstone Hornibrook consulted with and provided constant support for all parties involved to ensure smooth operation and timely completion of the project. This cooperation meant very little issues arose during construction and no delays on completion. This truly is stylish living in a world renowned location.
The Allisee Apartments project also shows the organisation’s commitment to the future with innovative, and energy saving features used, such QLD Special Feature - Allisee Apartments
A link to nature N
aturelink Landscapes and Design are specialists in hard and soft commercial landscape construction. During their 8 years in business they have continually built on their success through a commitment to professionalism and expertise. Naturelink used their superb landscaping skills on the $62 million Allisee Apartment project, including the bulk earthworks, shaping, soil and plant placement, mulching, rock work, fencing and irrigation using a series of spear pumps. The windy site that Allisee Apartments is situated on posed some challenges for Naturelink, as the salt laden breezes could have adverse effects for many of the plants used. Naturelink applied their skill and knowledge to overcome this obstacle and constructed a landscape design to reduce the effects of the salt while still providing stunning visual greenery. Naturelink’s period of involvement with the Allisee Apartment project ran right through
the June cold-snap, which could play havoc on the plants if they weren’t strong or healthy enough. Naturelink are qualified horticulturists and ensured the flora used was strong enough to withstand the sudden cold before going to site. Their mastery of landscape construction allowed them to finish well within the compressed time constraints they were given to complete the landscaping task.
Naturelink have provided an outstanding service to many satisfied clients during their time in business. Their involvement in the prestigious Allisee Apartment project is further testament to their growing reputation as a leading landscape construction specialist, and a valuable choice for any client.
In response to the ongoing drought, Naturelink took steps to ensure water for the irrigation system was totally self sufficient, and the landscaping design maximised water efficiency. Tanks have been used for the irrigation water supply. Naurelink operates from a 6 acre nursery in Nerang, and employs 22 professionals. They have continually adapted innovative designs and constructions in an ever changing industry to ensure they can provide the most flexible service for any development.
Naturelink Landscape and Design PO Box 0 Nerang Retail QLD 4211 p. 0 0 088 f. 0 00 3 m. 0 0 8
QLD Special Feature - Allisee Apartments
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Moulding the future F
amily owned company A.F. External Mouldings have seen tremendous success in their 15 years in business, starting from humble beginnings in Queensland, they now distribute their products around Australia and export into Asia. Specialising in impact resistant polystyrene based cement rendered architectural panels and mouldings, A.F. External Mouldings have used the same principles for the last 15 years to create high quality products for their clients. On the Allisee Apartment project, A.F. External Mouldings were the provider of all maxi-panels, sunhoods and columns. They used a variety of innovative techniques including unique combinations of acrylics, sand, cement, and fibre glass reinforcement for their panels with polystyrene cores. This ensured the product was strong and weather resistant.
QLD Special Feature - Allisee Apartments
Their main contribution to the Allisee Apartments project were the maxi panels, but due to the sites complex setting, the panels were manufactured from their modest factory in Miami and then transported on site to be shaped and fitted. Each were made approximately 3 metres long so they fitted with the building, then cut-to-size as needed. The project complexities also meant specially made steel bracketing was required to align and support the columns and maxi-panels.
in Melbourne and prided themselves on developing their products themselves. This has meant they have been able to build on their great success through word of mouth rather than the need for constant advertising and have developed a great sense of loyalty through their clients.
A.F. External Mouldings used state of the art hot wire foam cutting machinery to shape their products with craftsmen-like precision.
To enable other states and more remote areas to benefit the availability of our products we have created a company REP (International ) Pty Ltd, which are licensed branch manufacturing distributors. These are exclusive areas with fully trained and equipped, ( foam cutting machine) to carry out the manufacturing and installation of our products.
A.F. External Mouldings chairman Peter Forster has had over 40 years experience in the building industry, and passed his wealth of knowledge to son Ashley Forster who is now company director. They originally started as a solid plastering company
A. F. External Mouldings Unit 1/49 Lemana Lane Miami QLD 4220 p. 0 8 8 f. 0 www.afexternalmouldings.com.au
Sensory satisfaction A
n unrivalled dedication to providing exceptional service and a detailed knowledge of the audio-visual industry has cemented JVG Sound Lighting and Visual’s (JVG) position as the perfect company to understand and entertain the senses. The luxury of the Allisee Apartments would not be complete without the latest advances in home entertainment, expertly installed with a careful consideration for ambience. JVG specialises in high end home theatre and control automation, making it the perfect choice to create the ultimate home theatre experience inside each Allissee apartment. The 10 month project included pre-wiring each $10,000 Bose Series 3 Lifestyle System and wall mounting hi-definition LCD and plasma screens in every apartment. JVG opted for HDMI wiring to install Hi-def Blu Ray players in each unit, the latest in home theatre technology.
JVG’s dedication to being a leader in audio-visual supply and installation meant the very latest systems were installed and set up with seamless precision. This home theatre package illustrates the quality of these apartments, highlighting the decision to represent prestige down to the finest detail. JVG has continuously built on its success over the past 10 years, starting out on the Gold Coast and now with offices in Cairns and Townsville. JVG also specialises in entertainment systems for pubs, clubs, places of worship, schools, entertainment centres, and high end residential developments. The company expertly supplies and installs all major home entertainment brands including Bose, Pioneer, Sony, Panasonic, LG, JBL, Rti, Crestron and Philips.
JVG Sound Lighting and Visual /38 Ourimbah Road Tweed Heads NSW 8 p. 0 f. 0 3 m. 0 e. sales@jvgsound.com.au
QLD Special Feature - Allisee Apartments
Joining forces
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shmore Joinery are a relatively new company having only been established for 3 years, but their knowledge of the building industry and impeccable service provided has been key to their strong success in such a short time. Specialising in Market Unit Development, Ashmore Joinery began in 2004, completing smaller residential projects before venturing into larger commercial and residential projects. Ashmore Joinery were engaged by builders Baulderstone Hornibrook to provide all joinery services for the $62 million Stage 1 Allisee Apartment Project. Utilising the latest technology, the company used 3D modelling software to design and build many of the internal apartment features including the kitchens, bathrooms and ceiling panelling. The use of computer modelling meant total precision in the design and a perfect fit for each apartment.
Ashmore Joinery PO Box Ashmore QLD 4214 p. 0 f. 0 3
QLD Special Feature - Allisee Apartments
Most of Ashmore Joinery’s 25 skilled employees were involved on the prestigious project from September 06 until June 07. Their ability to work together effectively and efficiently ensured no issues arose during product implementation.
It was smooth operations from start to finish. The results produced by Ashmore Joinery were so good they received recommendations from property group Stockland for similar projects. Ashmore Joinery strive to provide the highest quality products and services. For the Allisee Apartments Project a number of innovative products were used, including Grass Soft Close Doors, and Salice Soft Close Hinges, which were brand new to the market. The organisation operates from a modern computerised factory on the Gold Coast, and has been extremely quick in building up business, moving on to larger scale projects over the last 3 years. Ashmore Joinery provides services throughout Queensland. For a comparatively small company, Ashmore Joinery is making a big mark in the industry. Their involvement in the prestigious Allisee Apartment project is further testament to their outstanding skill, expertise and service in joinery.
Automated entry A
S Gates and Balustrade and their staff have been manufacturing and providing Balustrades, Automatic Gate systems and Security Access Systems to clients in Australia and the South Pacific region for a long time now.
Allisee Apartments and not previously used in any other development. This new design has been so successful it has been taken up by construction company Laing O’Rourke to be used on up and coming projects.
With highly skilled staff, a wealth of knowledge, innovative ideas and experience in the industry, AS Gates and Balustrade has simply kept building on their success.
As with most constructions, there were minor challenges that presented themselves on site. An issue encountered by AS Gates and Balustrade was the square finish on all the aluminium posts used instead of a rounded edge that is common at most sites. The company, working with powder coating organisation Interpon, used a modified application to stop flaking and potential corrosion of the aluminium.
AS Gates and Balustrade’s involvement in the Allisee Apartment project has lasted approximately 12 months with completion of the first stage expected by around the end of September. They were responsible for the creation of the balustrades on all apartments, at a cost of about $600,000. The design of the balustrades were unique to the project and the company consulted with architects Cox Raynor and Gamble McKinnon to create a balustrade specific to the
AS Gates and Balustrade have been in big demand around Australia, and provide security and design solutions for many multi-unit residential and commercial projects. Most recently the company won the balustrade contract for the Norman Reach project.
Their commitment to providing high quality work, expert specialist advice and product service has been of great benefit. AS Gates and Balustrade have received recommendations from architects due to their in depth knowledge and skill. Their involvement on the prestigious Allisee Apartments project is further testament to their reputation as a company at the top in its industry.
AS Gates and Balustrade PO Box 8 Beenleigh QLD 4207 p. 0 338 0 f. 0 338 0 m. 0 33 38 0 e. sales@asgb.com.au
QLD Special Feature - Allisee Apartments
Special Feature | Sabaya & Castlebar Cove
Uncompromising luxury Sabaya and Castlebar Cove have incorporated the very latest in technology and environmental sustainability without compromising on luxury
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KP Property Group’s construction division recently completed two outstanding luxury developments in Queensland. Both projects incorporated the latest in technology and environmental sustainability without compromising on the luxury, facilities and quality demanded by developers and clients. The refurbishment of the Rydges Sabaya Port Douglas Resort and the construction of the Castlebar Cove luxury apartments on the Brisbane River foreshore, carry FKP Property Group’s mark of efficiency and quality without compromise. Castlebar Cove, developed for Sincere Properties Pty Ltd is a $49 million project in Brisbane’s Kangaroo Point. Nestled beside the Brisbane River, Castlebar Cove comprises two
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QLD Special Feature - Sabaya & Castlebar Cove
13-story towers, with two standard residences per level to level 10, and a single two story penthouse occupying levels 11 and 12. There are 38 double garages and 16 visitor parking spaces in two basement parking levels. In total, the project encompasses 29,500m² with expansive landscaped terrace, health club, plunge pool, steam room, and heated pool. The riverside location also offers a river walk and deep water mooring facilities. “FKP is delighted to have delivered this prestigious project,” said Michael Tucker, FKP’s Executive General Manager for Construction, “Castlebar Cove is set to provide a benchmark for luxury apartments in Brisbane for years to come.”
FKP had to overcome significant challenges during the development. Many of these related to the development’s riverside position, which was an ideal location once the project was completed, but necessitated a thoughtful approach to materials handling and logistics. FKP also streamlined on-site plant placement and delivery procedures to manage the small, steep site located at the end of a cult-de-sac. A two-hour flight and a world away from the hustle and bustle of Brisbane is the Rydges Sabaya Port Douglas Resort in the Far North Queensland hideaway of Port Douglas. Working with joint venture partners Raglan Investments Pty Ltd, FKP Property Group’s construction division completed a $19 million dollar ‘art-deco’ refurbishment. Despite the
Sabaya
often inclement weather of the far north, the project, which involved the refurbishment of 127 open plan units, 67 single units, and 65 double units plus associated resort facilities and infrastructure, was finished ahead of schedule. The apartments feature high quality finishes, stainless steel appliances and tastefully designed kitchens incorporated into the tropical style of open plan living that exploits natural shade and breezes.
disruptions. The flexibility of this approach was instrumental in the speed with which the refurbishment was undertaken.
creation of developments encompassing apartments, retirement and aged care facilities, commercial, industrial and retail projects. FKP Property Group is an ASX top 200 company.
“Working with the rainy season rather than against it was the primary focus of our construction programme,” said Tucker.“Despite the need for two phases of sub-contractor involvement, programming works around the climatic conditions saved time and money.”
“FKP has designed the Sabaya redevelopment for open-plan living,” said Tucker, “to capture cooling sea breezes and to complement the unique tropical North Queensland environment.”
FKP Property Group has extensive experience in the construction industry. During construction of these two projects, FKP exhibited the attention to detail and project management skills required in today’s modern construction environment.
Like any project undertaken in the tropical North of Queensland, careful consideration had to be given to construction during the wet season. FKP decided to schedule much of the weather-sensitive exterior works outside the wet season, to minimise the prospect of
FKP Property Group, is a diversified and integrated company that has the ability to provide tailored solutions for its clients throughout the construction and development process. The company’s construction division has more than 30 years experience in the
FKP Property Group Level , 0 Edward St Brisbane QLD 4000 p. 0 3 3 f. 0 3 3 38 www.fkp.com.au
QLD Special Feature - Sabaya & Castlebar Cove
Perfect partners S
abaya Port Douglas Resort offers guests the very best in luxury and comfort. Set in the tropical far north of Queensland’s Port Douglas, the FKP Group development required an atmosphere of openness and light whilst still maintaining the required integrity of an air conditioned and cool environment. As a result, the choice of windows and doors for the development was critical to not only achieving the architect’s vision for the project, but also in creating the desired level of comfort. Other factors affecting the choice of the windows and doors were the durability of the product, ease of use and installation, longevity and aesthetic appeal. AQF Windows & Doors were able to meet these requirements with their Australian made products. AQF began as a small two man glazing operation 10 years ago on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. Since the early days the company has grown rapidly and now occupies its own purpose built factory site. An insightful decision early on led
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the company to re-direct its core business from operating as a glazing contractor to focus on the manufacture of doors and windows. The Wintec system is Australia’s leading window and door system and AQF acquired the machinery to allow them to produce this highly successful range of products. Today, AQF employs a team of around 30 highly skilled staff and tradesmen. The company has long understood that it is the quality of the team that produces the quality of the product and through the years they have endeavoured to build a highly proficient and motivated core of staff. Integral to this principle is the company’s focus on participation, education and skills enhancement. OH&S training and protocols take a high place within the company and strong emphasis is placed on job satisfaction, integrity and technical skills. A natural flow on effect of this positive and proactive environment is the benefit to AQF’s clients. The clients receive the undivided
attention of a company that desires not only the best for their employees but also the most satisfactory solutions for their clients. On the Sabaya project, AQF supplied high quality manufactured windows and doors throughout the development. Durable and smart, the Wintec system used provides the ideal balance between security, ease of use, and cost and delivery. The results speak for themselves and the finished development provides a clear indication of AQF’s abilities to supply high quality product within budget and time constraints.
AQF Windows & Doors Mallet Street Kunda Park QLD 4556 t. 0 08 f. 0 8 e. sales@aquickfix.com.au www.aquickfix.com.au
Clean design L
ocated in Brisbane, Metrotiles is able to provide the largest range of ceramic floor and wall tiles in the state. Naturally this was one of the main reasons for their involvement in the redevelopment of the prestigious Rydges Sabaya Resort in Queensland’s far north. Located in Port Douglas two hours north of Brisbane by air, the Rydges Sabaya Port Douglas Resort was the ideal opportunity for Metrotiles to demonstrate not only their exclusive and extensive range of ceramic tiles, but also their considerable knowledge of large scale supply to the construction industry. Extensive consultation with project architects and joint venture partners for the redevelopment Raglan Investment Pty Ltd, and FKP Property Group’s construction division ensured the on-time and carefully budgeted delivery of the required tiling solution.
The completed $19 million ‘art-deco’ refurbishment has created an ideal showcase for the high quality and extensive tiling supplied by Metrotiles Queensland office. Of particular challenge to the supply of the tiling was the unique delivery schedule to enable trades to work around the notorious ‘wet season’ of the far north. Once again Metrotiles were able to accommodate this into their delivery schedule for the project.
Metrotiles Bowen Hills Pty Ltd Edgar Street Bowen Hills QLD 4006 p. 0 3 8 f. 0 3 0 e. peterd@metrobh.com.au
The Sabaya redevelopment has been designed with tropical open-plan living in mind and as such the use of ‘cool’ tiling was integral to the overall aesthetic and comfort of the resort. Metrotiles are very proud to have been able to assist in the creation of the five star resort and their successful completion of their involvement is sure to create a new rush of orders as holiday makers from the far north return seeking that extra touch of paradise for their own homes.
QLD Special Feature - Sabaya
Watertight operators C
astlebar Cove is setting new standards in luxury residential apartment construction in Brisbane. The waterfront development at Kangaroo Point, set adjacent to the Brisbane River, is likely to become a benchmark in high quality residential development for many years to come. However, the prestige and reputation of any new luxury apartment development would be seriously undermined if the groundwork and ‘behind the scenes’ operations of major construction were not in safe hands. Well aware of the necessary attention to detail, FKP ensured that every aspect of the development was undertaken by the most experienced and professional companies available for the job Concrete Seal Waterproofing Pty Ltd are one such company. Established for over 11 years the company specialises in waterproofing, concrete repair, and specialist coating application and consultation. Concrete Seal Waterproofing Pty Ltd was engaged by FKP to provide a complete waterproofing
Hyder Consulting
solution for the Castelbar Cove development from the basement to the roof. In between these areas they also provided their services for the balconies, planter boxes, podium and wet areas. Experience, safety, and quality of workmanship are what Concrete Seal Waterproofing Pty Ltd provide to their clients. With over 30 years of experience in the business, they are well aware of the requirements and high standards demanded in today’s world of modern construction. The professionalism and dedication of Concrete Seal Waterproofing Pty Ltd on the Castlebar Cove project, including overcoming the wet conditions while installing the membrane to the underside of the slab is a good example of what can be achieved through cooperation, good communication and a desire to ensure the client receives the very best service. Concrete Seal Waterproofing Pty Ltd PO Box Alexandra Hills QLD 4161 p. 0 3 0 3 3 f. 0 3 0 3 vincent@concreteseal.com.au www.concreteseal.com.au
DELIVERING ON EXPECTATIONS
Innovative engineering, environment and management solutions. At Hyder Consulting, our client’s vision, their goals and objectives, lie at the heart of everything we do. This approach leads us to challenge conventional thinking and push boundaries to consistently deliver truly sustainable solutions on time and within commercial requirements. Some of Hyder’s successful urban development projects located in Brisbane include: • • • •
Castlebar Cove pictured left Vue Apartments Freshwater Apartments Tempo Mixed Development
Hyder Consulting Pty Ltd 161 Breakfast Creek Road Newstead, Queensland 4006 Tel: +61 7 3337 0000 Fax: +61 7 3337 0050 www.hyderconsulting.com
QLD Special Feature - Castlebar Cove
Architectural Staircases Pty Ltd Elliott Road Banyo QLD 4014 p. 0 3 00 f. 0 3 00 e. admin@archstairs.net e. sales@archstairs.net www.archstairs.net
Stairways to heaven L
ocated on the Brisbane River foreshore, the distinctive dome shaped roofs of the twin 13-story towers of the Castlebar Cove development present an unmistakable architectural point of interest. Within the complex, little expense has been spared to create a series of luxurious apartments that provide expansive views and incorporate the very latest fittings and appliances. Integral to the architect’s vision for the project was the inclusion of the clean lines of bright stainless steel in the balustrades with the warmth of timber handrails. FKP Group, the project developers, engaged the services of Architectural Staircases to ensure that this aspect of the project was undertaken to the highest of standards. David Mell from Architectural Staircases explains, “Architectural Staircases was established in Brisbane in 2000 to respond to a need within the building industry for the provision of high quality, modern staircases incorporating composite materials and multiple trades. In short, the philosophy of
the company was to remove the design restrictions and limitations that have traditionally applied to staircase design and manufacture.”
typically delivering the ‘WOW’ factor that is so often sought in today’s modern and upmarket projects.”
The company has thrived since its inception and their original intention of creating a combined and thorough approach has been realised, with Architectural Staircases now providing a multi-trade environment in which all aspects of design and manufacturing can be addressed in-house. This includes timber joinery, specialised glazing, steel, stainless and aluminium fabrication, as well as pre and post finishing. Also included is a comprehensive and skilled design service with the technical skill, aptitude, and knowledge to undertake a wide and varied variety of challenging projects.
The ‘WOW’ factor is clearly evident in the work that Architectural Staircases has undertaken on Castlebar Cove. For the project, Architectural Staircases supplied and installed highly polished stainless steel balustrades and stanchions. Illustrating the variety of the in-house trades available to the company, Architectural Staircases also provided select pre-finished kiln dried Wenge, Jarrah and Tasmanian Oak.
Architectural Staircases, Castlebar Cove Project Coordinator Scott Nicholas says, “Our key is in the extensive use of computer design and manufacture. CAD allows our talented detailers the ability through years of building experience to focus and deliver exacting design and manufacture drawings. The end result is a complete and cost effective package
The company’s creation of a free standing continuous balustrade that achieves stability and strength through its interlocking parts is an achievement that perhaps only true craftsmen and engineers will appreciate. However, the beauty of the design and its function is something that will impress all who visit Castlebar Cove. Understandably, Architectural Staircases is delighted to have been involved with the project and to have been able to add their distinctive touch. QLD Special Feature - Castlebar Cove
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Gus Graham and his team are proud to be associated with the refurbishment of the Rydges Sabaya Resort. Working closely with Russell Newham and his FKP team to achieve a functional Resort and Landscape Lighting System. Designed and Installed by D&M Electrical Group. The D&M Group have been associated with Port Douglas & Cairns region for 4 years and have recently opened new offices in Cairns.
D & M Group North QLD Pty Ltd 106 Kenny St, Portsmith Cairns QLD 4870 Ph 07 4035 2776 Fax 07 4035 1776 ABN 59 109 435 949
Erosion Control Systems Slope Stabilisation Retaining Walls
Concrete sleeper retaining wall
• Concrete Cribwalls • Concrete Sleeper Walls
Interlocking Block Bridge Abutment Protection Rock Mattress and Gabion Structure
• Gabion & Rock Mattress Structures • Rock-Fall Netting Protection • Segmental Geogrid Reinforced Walls • Interlocking Block Protection Systems
Crib Retaining Wall Segmental block retaining wall
Concrib Pty Ltd 601 Boundary Road Richlands Qld 4077 Ph 07 3375 1800
Fax: 07 3375 1777 email: concrib@ecn.net.au www.concrib.com.au ABN 40 010 401 484 QBSA No. 59212
L A I E C E UR P S EAT F
Photo Millenium Arts Precinct (courtesy Bryce Tolliday 00 .)
ASSOCIATION OF CONSULTANTS IN ACCESS AUSTRALIA
People with disabilities have access needs, they number 20% of the Australian population (ABS 2003) most have disposable incomes (DSC WA 2000) and they spend $1.5bn annually in the domestic tourism and day trip market (Darcy 1998, 2003). Further, Frisch argues an accessible built environment National Income would increase by $300 million per year, or $6 billion over 20 years (Frisch 1998, 2000). In today’s competitive economic environment, no new development or redevelopment can afford to provide the barest minimum of access. The Association of Consultants in Access, Australia (ACAA) is the professional body for those engaged as Access Consultants. It is dedicated to growing the knowledge of its members and ensuring the maintenance of the highest ethical and professional standards. Access Consultants are cognisant of the requirements of relevant laws, regulations and Australian Standards. The ACAA also offers a pathway for those wishing to become Accredited Access Consultants and requires ongoing Continuing Professional Development.
Disability Feature - SUPPLIERS CONSULTANTS & SUPPLIES
Accredited Access Consultants are educated, experienced professionals committed to enhancing the standard of accessibility within the built environment and are the ones best placed to provide independent access advice, design, planning, auditing and training services to all facets in the development and construction process. An example of an Accredited Access Consultant’s professional input into access provision embracing all dimensions of access (Darcy 1998, 2003): mobility, vision and hearing is the Millenium Arts Precinct in Brisbane which includes raised Tactile Braille Maps, Directional signage and mobility access.
Accredited Access Consultants in any state or territory can be contacted via the ACAA website ACAA www.access.asn.au/
ACCESS CONSULTANCY ADELAIDE S.A. By Jill Fowler
Having personal, life-long experience of severe disability, Trevor Harrison (Principal) started HC Harrison Consultants in 88, long before access consultancy was a recognized part of the design and building industries. Jill Fowler joined the business in 000. The greatest opportunity and challenge in the field of Access Consultancy is to influence players in planning, design and construction industries; change the way projects and developments are documented and approved; and improve built environments and wayfinding to create equitable access. The responsibility for access lies with planners, designers, architects, builders and trades people, linked to the approval process through state and local government and a range of (private) certifiers. The responsibility for accessibility is shared and must be a key feature to benefit all users and business practice. Exclusion from community, employment, services, education, housing, arts, sport and recreation and business has far reaching implications for individuals, their family and in the context of cost to governments and our economy. Governments at all levels need to lead the way.
AUSTRALIAN DISABLED ACCESS CONSULTANTS Australian Disabled Access Consultants is an Australian disabled access advisory consultancy formed in 2000 and based in Sydney. The consultancy specializes in providing disabled access design advice, technical assessment reports, building and site audits and support services to private clients (Architects, building designers, project managers, engineers and landscape architects) and all levels Government. Australian Disabled Access Consultants assists clients and design professionals with new projects, existing premises and sites, change of use applications and building audits by providing technical support services, design advice and assessment reports for disabled access within new property projects, alterations and additions to existing buildings and the auditing of new and existing sites and buildings.
Australian Disabled Access Consultants provides building auditing services and assessing the disabled access aspects of development application plans, construction certification application plans for: 1. Residential housing. 2. Residential hotels and mixed residential/ retail hotel projects 3. Licensed hotels, clubs and casinos 4. Retail projects 5. Commercial projects 6. Educational establishments 7. Entertainment venues 8. Industrial projects 9. Medical projects 10. Parking areas and parking stations 11. Tourist resorts 12. Indoor and outdoor recreational projects 13. Public buildings 14. Institutional projects
HC Harrison Consultants conducts state-wide government department Access Reviews, working with Lees Cadman (now trading as Wilde & Woollard) as Cost Managers. The whole-ofgovernment policy, Promoting Independence – Disability Action Plans for SA drives the process and is critical to many services and employment opportunities becoming available to people with disabilities. Other projects include detailed Access Audits (Adelaide Airport T1 & Botanic Gardens), transport corridors (Bakewell Bridge & South Road Underpass), Streetscape audits (local government) and Access Advice for a wide range of building types.
HC Harrison Consultants Grey Ave Welland SA 00 p. 08 8 08 f. 08 8 08 e. trevor@harrison-consultants.com.au www.harrison-consultants.com.au
Australian Disabled Access Consultants provides the following range of services: 1. Design advice 2. Pre-lodgement design meetings with clients, design professionals and Councils 3. Disabled access assessment reports 4. Disabled access audits and reports of existing building and site conditions 5. Expert witness testimony 6. Disabled access code design guidelines for government authorities 7. Membership of Government Disabled Access Advisory Committee
Australian Disabled Access Consultants 364-366 Catherine Street Leichhardt NSW 0 0 P. O. Box Concord NSW 3 p. 0 3 3 f. 0 3 38
“HI” DEAFNESS FRIENDLY PROGRAM An initiative of DeafSA For the past 116 years the DeafSA - SA’s second oldest charity, has been providing services to the deaf and hearing impaired communities. The vision of DeafSA is: A deafness friendly South Australia and we now seek your assistance to help achieve this vision. Background about hearing loss: Unfortunately, hearing loss has no boundaries and currently there are 3.55million or one in six (6) Australians who have hearing loss and this number is only going to increase with an ageing population. Hearing loss and age go ‘hand in hand.’ In fact, it is estimated that in the next forty years one in four (4) of us will experience hearing difficulties. As the oldest demographic audience per capita in Australia, South Australia is no doubt unfortunately leading the way with this statistic. Hearing Aid usage: Unfortunately, only 15% of the demographic audience that could, should or would benefit from a hearing aid do so. The other 85% do nothing at all. Statistics supplied by Access Economics report - The Economic Impact and Cost of Hearing Loss in Australia. Feb 2006. About hearing aids: Hearing aids can be fitted with a “T” switch (telecoil) function, for use where ‘audio loops’ are installed. Unfortunately not all hearing aids are fitted with “T” switch function and with a low number of ‘audio loops’ in the community, the “T” switch function has not had great use to date. Equity of Access and Cost of Hearing Loss: From a ‘equity of access’ point of view, we are obliged to address all disability issue’s. However, the hearing impaired problem is just not about providing greater ‘equity of access.’ Highlighted
in the Access Economics report states - hearing loss cost Australia $11.75 billion or 1.4% of Gross Domestic Product in 2005 year. Solving the problem? To address both issue’s - that is: the hearing impaired person that wears a hearing aid and the non hearing aid user DeafSA’s - “hi” deafness friendly program provides a range of products and services and of those products to help overcome the difficulties for the hearing impaired person are: Personal Hearing System (PHS unit) - which is a portable item for individual usage. Approximate cost is $900.00 Counter Hearing System (CHS unit) - for use at reception / front customer service counters. Fixed price $1365.00 Public (FM) Hearing System (PFM unit) - for use at public venues ie: Theatres & Halls etc. Approximate cost $2700 Note: Both the PFM & PHS units can vary in price due to the size of venue and or additional products purchased. Audio Loop technology? Audio loop technology is not new but as stated above this product is used only when a person has a hearing aid and providing the hearing aid is fitted with a telecoil “T” switch function. An audio loop consists of cabling around the desired hearing assistance area (loop cabling) and this loop is then connected to a power amplifier. When the amplifier is “turned on” it produces a magnetic field which in turn collects any audio transmission within that area ie: Radio, Television or Public Address (PA) system signal or sound. This sound is then ampified into the hearing aid and with the “T” switch function turned on, this amplified sound is transmitted into the ear canal. When the “T” switch function is “turned on” the user will not be able to hear other surround sounds ie: the person sitting next to them talking. Why we recommend a Public (FM) Hearing System (PFM unit)? The PFM technology is not new - however, the design, development and subsequent implementation is - and the PFM unit is made here in South Australia. To be used with “walkman style” listening device, the PFM unit allows all hearing impaired people the opportunity to listen to the PA (Public Address) sound in a Church, Hall, Club or public venue where the PFM unit is installed. Using a “walkman style” listening device the user has the volume control at their fingertips.
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The PFM unit transmits a “FM” signal the (PA) sound collected. The PFM unit is designed for each building and the same transmitting frequency is predominately used through-out the State. That is: 88.3 on the FM band. The PFM unit is a very cost effective alternative for the hearing impaired community and the bonus of the PFM product is, that it also has a portable audio loop which sits around the neck, like a tie or scarf and can then be used by the person who has a hearing aid with a “T” switch function fitted. The portable audio loop costs an additional $99.00. Therefore, you DO NOT need to install the Audio Loop on its own, if you install the PFM unit. A PFM unit consists of: 1 x FMX 3 Transmitter 1 x Plug Pack 1 x FM Antenna - labour and commissioning. Sharing the cost - that is: each client would buy their own “walkman” and portable audio loop. To eliminate human error we suggest that a “Digital AGC” Automatic Gain Controller / Volume Controller be installed with each PFM unit. The AGC unit has the intelligence to turn the volume controls up or down. If installed at the sametime the PFM unit is installed the cost would be an additional $750.00 All pricing includes training, warranty, installation, commissioning, “hi” deafness friendly signage and registration on our deafness friendly website. Our objective: Our objective is install a PFM unit at every Theatre, Church, Aged Care Facility, School, University, Funeral Parlour, Local, State, Federal Government meeting room etc, Airport, Bus & Train station. By doing so, we believe we can help overcome one of the biggest hurdles for the hearing impaired community - isolation. Rod McInnes - Coordinator “HI” deafness friendly program An initiative of DeafSA South Tce ADELAIDE SA 000 Direct Phone (08) 8 00 8 8 Switch Phone (08) 8 3 333 Mobile Phone 0 08 0 8 Fax: (08) 8 3 TTY: (08) 8100 8232 rmcinnes@deafsa.org.au www.deafnessfriendly.com.au
EQUAL ACCESS Making a building “accessible” is not simply a matter of installing a disabled ramp out the front and a disabled toilet inside. Principals of “inclusive design” should be employed early in the initial design. Inclusive design is about making places that everyone can use. The way places are designed affects our ability to move, see, hear and communicate effectively. Inclusive design aims to remove the barriers that create undue effort and separation. It enables everyone to participate equally, confidently and independently in everyday activities. An inclusive environment is created by architects, planners, engineers, building surveyors, access consultants, and facility managers. Ultimately, though, creating an inclusive place is in the hands of developers, property owners/managers and service providers. It is their responsibility to ensure that their property is designed, built, and operated in line with inclusive principals. Access needs should be an integral part of what we do every day. We should use our creativity and lateral thinking to find innovative and individual solutions, designing for real people in all their variability. Making environments easy to use for everyone means considering signage, lighting, visual contrast and materials. Access to buildings isn’t
simply a question of their physical layout. It also requires people having sufficient information, often before they leave their house, that makes them feel confident enough to access a building or space. Ensuring their ‘intellectual’ and ‘emotional’ access means considering signage, lighting, visual contrasts and materials.
in the early stages of a project will ensure an inclusive approach to design is adopted which can also reduce any future claims for unjustifiable hardship in the future but more importantly is good business and can generate a significant increase in business.
At the beginning of the design process it is important to analyse the transport patterns to and within a development. Roads, parking, walkways, building entrances and other routes should be considered. Peoples opportunity to use all elements within the site, including the inside of buildings is critical. Meeting the principals of inclusive design requires an understanding of how the building or space will be used and who will use it. Places need to be designed so that they can adapt to changing uses and demands. Equal Access Pty Ltd Disability Access Consultants provide a specialist consulting service to enhance the built environment and provide “Equal Access” for members of the community with a disability. Areas to be considered in inclusive design include external environments and approach, doorways, horizontal circulation, vertical circulation, sanitary facilities, fixtures, means of escape, lighting, acoustics, finishes, way finding, information & communication. The benefits of appointing an access consultant
Above image: A disabiltity friendly floor plan
For information about services and advice provided by Equal Access Pty Ltd Disability Access Consultants, please visit our website at www.equalaccess.com.au
DISABLED ACCESS CONSULTANCY A welcome trend is developing in Victoria, at least it seems to me, for an increasing number of local councils to include mandatory conditions in building permit applications that require the implementation of relevant enhanced disability access before a building permit can be issued. This local government requirement is additional to the mandatory requirements imposed by the Building Code of Australia. The trend is welcome because it demonstrates that local government is becoming increasingly aware of the public good that flows from ensuring, as far as is pragmatically possible, that the built environment is accessible to people with disabilities (PWDs).
The greater involvement of PWDs in community life strengthens local economies, reduces the burden on social services provided by councils, and of course reduces the feelings of frustration and the level of discrimination endured by PWDs, whilst greatly enhancing their feelings of personal worth. To include or not certain features in a building is often not as straightforward as it may seem. Almost all buildings are unique in design, and an individual approach to each is needed. I advise building owners, property developers, builders and architects to engage the services of a practising member of the Association of Consultants in Access, Australia at design or
redevelopment stage to assist them in the task of incorporating enhanced disability access features in their designs. If the trend referred to is real, and continues, I believe this advice is timely.
Bob Kellow Managing Director Disabled Access Consultancy Pty Ltd Accredited member Association of Consultants in Access, Australia Inc. www.disabledaccess.com.au
Disability Feature - SUPPLIERS CONSULTANTS & SUPPLIES
Special Feature | Queen Elizabeth Hospital
Fit for a Queen
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With a number of landmark projects already included in their profile, it was only natural that Hansen Yuncken would play a major role in the latest redevelopment of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Adelaide.
With a number of landmark projects already included in their profile, such as the Bicentennial Conservatory in Adelaide, the Regent Theatre restoration in Melbourne, the new Adelaide Airport Terminal and the award-winning Lyell McEwen Hospital redevelopment, it was only natural that Hansen Yuncken would play a major role in the latest redevelopment of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, in Adelaide.
ansen Yuncken is one of the largest privately owned commercial construction companies operating in Australia. Established in 1918, the company has earned a reputation amongst both private and government clients for diligent, responsive, and innovative contracting.
Beginning in July 2005, with work on-site expected to continue until 2011, Hansen Yuncken 30 SA Special Feature - Queen Elizabeth Hospital
has been engaged as the managing contractor on the project, and is an integral member of the re-development team that includes both client and consultant representatives. In addition to the childcare building, construction of a new three level inpatient building, as well as a three-level car park, was finished in June 2007. Re-development will soon commence on a 3 level research facility and will continue until the end of 2008. The last phase of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital redevelopment, of a new administration and education building, will run from 2009-2011. Despite the overwhelming size of such a project, the professional team from Hansen Yuncken has been committed to completing deadlines on time, whilst adhering to outstanding relations and workplace
safety guidelines. Additionally, they have established a high standard of innovation and environmentally sustainable initiatives, thus setting highly competitive benchmarks in all aspects of the project.
team was presented with significant administrative challenges. However, through the co-ordination and the fine-tuning of their procurement methodology, this challenge was overcome.
For example, the Queen Elizabeth Hospital is the first building in Australia to be submitted to the Greenstar Building Council of Australia for an ‘as designed’ rating against the GBCA Healthcare pilot tool. Another green initiative incorporated on the project has been the construction of a 450-megalitre stormwater storage tank for collection, subsequent treatment, and re-use of ‘roof-to-roof’ stormwater.
Recently ranked nationally as number 81 in BRW’s top 500 private companies, and with strong values towards meeting client objectives in the most cost-effective and collaborative manner, there is no doubt whatsoever that Hansen Yuncken will continue to outperform and exceed expectations in all facets of the construction process.
A challenge that Hansen Yuncken was faced with was the requirement of government protocols for each building facility to be tendered and procured separately, which has resulted in over 100 separate sub-contracts to date. As a result, the construction
Hansen Yuncken Level , Fullarton Road Dulwich SA 0 p. 08 8 300 f. 08 8 30 www.hansenyuncken.com.au
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Designed to please
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ruce Interiors and Constructions Pty. Ltd. (‘bic’), based in Adelaide, are dedicated to servicing the commercial, industrial, hospitality, educational and retail markets for general construction (for which they are becoming more well known), fit-out and refurbishment projects, undertaking both ground-up new building or renovation projects. With two decades of experience, and a workforce consisting of professional and dedicated staff, ‘bic’ have developed an enviable record for their ability to provide value for money services to their clients, as well as being able to service a wide range of both national and international companies.
Having worked on a prolific number of projects, with examples including the refurbishment of the St. Peters Coles Supermarket and the redevelopment of Gays Arcade Heritage building, ‘bic’ have built up a reputation as a quiet achiever in general construction projects over the last ten years. Additionally, having worked on the fit-out and renovation of buildings such as Southern Cross Care, Plympton and the Pier Building in Brighton, it was obvious Bruce Interiors and Constructions would tender for parts of the major re-development of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Adelaide.
Commencing their involvement on-site in August 2006, the ten experienced personnel from ‘bic’ were responsible for the building and installation of the walls and ceilings for the Childcare Centre. As a result of the project being meticulously organised in advance by both Hansen Yuncken and Bruce Interiors and Constructions Pty Ltd, the work on the Childcare Centre was carried out in both a smooth and time effective manner, with the ‘bic’ workforce encountering no major challenges or obstacles in carrying out their responsibilities.
As a result, the work was completed within the tight confines of the time schedules, pleasing both client and emphasising Bruce Interiors and Constructions’ leadership within the Industry, and their commitment to ongoing excellence. The team from ‘bic’ look forward to carrying out further work in the future on not only the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, but also on other general construction and fitout projects throughout Australia.
Bruce Interiors and Constructions Pty Ltd / Bennet Avenue Melrose Park SA 03 p. 08 8 8 00 f. 08 8 0 8 e. admin@bicpl.com.au www.bicpl.com.au
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Excellence in health design New buildings being delivered for the South Australian Department of Health as part of TQEH Stage 2 Redevelopment project are expected to set new standards for hospital buildings in Australia, particularly with respect to the incorporation of Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD). The new TQEH project also re-affirms Cheesman Architects as an industry leader in the delivery of high-value hospital facilities which specifically meet project objectives. 3 SA Special Feature - Queen Elizabeth Hospital
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QEH is a 351 bed acute hospital in the Western suburbs of Adelaide which commenced its redevelopment in 2000. The TQEH Stage 2 Redevelopment Project commenced in 2005 and encompasses development of a revised master plan for the site as well as the delivery of several new buildings including new inpatient, ambulant care and research facilities and new site services and transport infrastructure. The stage 2 project is presently due for completion in 2011. In addition to the normal project parameters associated with public hospital projects such as strict budget control, the Stage 2 project has several additional challenges including mandatory commencement of construction of the new inpatient facilities within 5 months of project commencement. Also stipulated is very high incorporation of Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD) principles to minimise both detrimental impact on the environment and operational costs during the life of the buildings. Cheesman Architects, a highly respected and award-winning architectural practice, established in South Australia in 1986, has played a significant role in the successful redevelopment of several of South Australia’s major hospital campuses. The recent Lyell McEwin Hospital Redevelopment project, also designed by Cheesman Architects, has been the recipient of over 13 state and national industry awards for design and construction excellence including the much coveted Property Council of Australia National Award (2006).
Cheesman Architects’ commitment to ESD as a company core philosophy is particularly evident in all of its work and it continues to be acknowledged as being at the forefront of the industry. At the 2007 South Australian RAIA awards a new health facility at the Repatriation General Hospital designed by Cheesman Architects was the only project recognised for its sustainable design quality. With this prolific experience and relevant expertise it was no surprise that Cheesman Architects was awarded the role of Coordinating Architects for the project at TQEH. The professional team of 55 staff included 30 from the WA practice, Silver Thomas Hanley, a firm whom Cheesman Architects has been collaborating with on the project.
As part of a collaborative Project Team, Cheesman Architects has been heavily involved in the development of ESD design rating tools which capture the TQEH’s specific sustainability objectives for each of the project buildings. These have been used in the design and construction phases to ensure that the requirements for sustainability are met. The inpatient building has been subsequently registered as a pilot project with the Green Building Council of Australia for assessment using the new Health Building rating tool. James Sage, Director at Cheesman Architects said that through the implementation of ESD and other initiatives, they are confident of setting even higher standards for ESD and whole-of-life consideration at TQEH.
However, a redevelopment of such immensity presented a number of challenges. One of these required Cheesman Architects to complete the master plan, design and documentation of the first building within a 6-month period. Despite this pressing deadline, the teams’ attention to detail and their wide-ranging experience meant that they were able to produce the required comprehensive documentation to enable this deadline to be achieved. Cheesman Architect’s signature attention to addressing buildability as an inherent requirement of the design process, contributed significantly to the delivery of the new inpatient building on time and under budget. At completion of this building the Project Team was able to return savings of over $1.5M to the client.
Cheesman Architects 30 The Parade Kensington SA 0 8 t. 08 8 3 f. 08 833 e. cheesarch@cheesman.com.au
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Special Feature | Newport Quays
Quay to the city Situated on the harbour in the historic Port Adelaide region of the city, Newport Quays will provide modern accommodation and employment for thousands with the creation of up to 000 homes, including parkland, community services, venues, restaurants and shops
Multiplex Constructions Level , 33 King William Street Adelaide SA 000 p. 08 8 8 0800 f. 08 8 0 88 www.multiplex.biz
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he $2.0 billion Newport Quays development is one of the largest projects of its kind in Australia. With a planned timeline of 10 years, the project sets out to redefine the concept of community living. Situated on the harbour in the historic Port Adelaide. Newport Quays will provide modern accommodation and employment for thousands with the creation of up to 2000 homes, including parkland, community services, venues, restaurants and shops. Over $10 million will be committed towards providing public infrastructure to create a truly workable environment for living, recreation, and tourism. It is anticipated that this injection of funds will be used to create public artworks, pedestrian bridges, and promenades. The development, which is situated on 51 hectares of under-utilised government land along the foreshores of the Port Adelaide River, is a joint venture between Multiplex Living and Urban Construct (under
a project development agreement with the South Australian Government’s Land Management Corporation). Significant cooperation and input has also been received from Port Adelaide Enfield Council as a major stakeholder. The first step in the ambitious Newport Quays urban development project is the nearly complete Stage 1, known as ‘Edgewater.’ Design and construct contracts were awarded to Multiplex Constructions in 2006, and included the design, construction, and delivery of three and four level (plus car park) residential sky homes consisting of one, two, and three bedroom apartments. The three apartment buildings have been completed, with residents having already begun moving in. Stage one also includes the nearly finished construction of 61 villas featuring harbour and park aspects, along with 61 marina berths. In keeping with the modern, community theme, the project architects have chosen
a wide ranging pallet of design and styles to create a truly unique environment. Pre cast concrete panels and columns were lifted into place once the ground slab had been created; over 300 double columns, 100 core panels, and 200 façade panels were installed. All three buildings are now past the initial construction phase with internal fit out well advanced and finishing trades heavily involved. The whole process was undertaken within extremely tight scheduling, but the method of pre-cast construction enabled completion well within the timeframe. As with all modern developments, environmental aspects are critical, and the Newport Quays, stage 1, incorporates a high level of ESD initiatives . Beginning in the initial stages, where possible, environmentally friendly products and processes were incorporated into the development to generate a reduced greenhouse footprint. The completed
development is also intended to function as environmentally efficiently as possible and includes passive environmental efficiencies, landscaping with drought resistant native plants, and solar hot water treatment. With over 4000 jobs expected to be created during construction of the Newport Quays Project, and a further 2000 permanent jobs created following completion, the development will provide a significant boost to the local economy. In addition, the 4000 new residents expected to live in the new community will provide on-going benefits for the local and state economy. There is a responsibility for Multiplex and their partners to ensure the success of their endeavours. The project will see the revitalisation of one of the few remaining capital city harbourside areas in Australia, and the creation of a modern, effective, and productive urban community.
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Newport Quays - Multiplex
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RC & ML Johnson Magill Rd Magill SA 0 p. 08 8333 0 88 f. 08 83 johnsteel@chariot.net.au
Men of steel R
C & ML Johnson are a family owned and operated structural steel fabrication company with the experience and ability to specialise in complex structural steel construction. Established 42 years ago, the company has thrived and grown on a broad range of projects and challenges. Recently engaged by Multiplex to provide their services on the landmark Newport Quays Development in Port Adelaide, RC & ML Johnson were responsible for the manufacture and erection of the structural steel for apartments one, two, and three.
“There were a number of challenging aspects to the project, with lots of structural steel interacting with glass framework,” Says Managing Director of RC & ML Johnson, Clinton R Johnson, “ The majority of steel work needed to be hot dip galvanised, which requires a high
degree of accurate fabrication and checking of tolerances to exclude the need for any reworking. “We also use 3D modelling” Mr Johnson adds “to assist in this process”. The steel was fabricated from drawings generated by X-Steel, an advanced modelling programme. RC & ML Johnson completed all their works on time, and there was a significant communication aspect to the project which clearly assisted in enhancing solutions and outcomes during all phases of the project. “Pre-steel detailing meetings held between our company, Multiplex, the architects and engineers,” Mr Johnson says, “proved very successful for both the builders and our ourselves.” This clear co-operation and flow of information ensured that all parties were involved in generating viable methods and
plans to take on site. The result was an efficient and coordinated approach to the works which clearly benefited all parties. RC & ML Johnson are members of the Australian Institute of Steel and Master Builders, the company has recently completed work on prestigious projects such as Holdfast Shores: Entertainment Centre and Platinum Apartments, Port Lincoln Hotel and Warrnambool Brewery. The company prides itself on maintaining a core of highly skilled, long-time employees – the efficiency and quality of the completed works on Newport Quays clearly reflects the success of this principle. Naturally, it also reflects the abilities of RC & ML Johnson and adds significantly to the company’s already strong reputation.
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Super fast flow R
apidFlow is the evolution and of a company called Mala Duct Manufacturing which began as a flexible duct manufacturer for the heating and cooling industry. RapidFlow is a family owned and operated company directed by Ibrem Mala and his wife Becky. Since its beginnings just 8 years ago, the company has become a leader in flexible duct manufacture and has branched out to all fields of the heating and cooling industry. The RapidFlow Group as it is know today consists of three divisions, flexible duct manufacturing, sheet metal manufacturing, and aluminium grill manufacture. The later two divisions were an exciting addition to the rapidflow group in the year of 2004, purchased outright from Ausmalt Group, which remains a major consumer of RapidFlow group’s products. Adding to this already impressive product range RapidFlow also supports the efforts of various local manufacturers and suppliers to ensure customers whether wholesale, commercial, or retail are adequately catered for.
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RapidFlow flexible duct is consumed by many wholesale customers Australia wide and due to its manufacture process and capacity remains a leader in this segment of the industry as well as maintaining its commitment to quality. The sheet metal division is able to produce all standard and any special products for the heating and cooling industry, basically the sheet metal shop is able to produce any form or product a customer should require, form the smallest of motorised dampers to the most complex of solid ducting installations. The grills division specialises in the creation of aluminium air diffusion and architectural grills of any size, colour, and louver design. RapidFlow also offers its customers a complete range of plastic diffusion products, ducted heating & cooling and split system units along with the required accessories, any required plumbing accessories, and finally many levels of control devises such as thermostats and zone controllers to accommodate the home automation boffins.
RapidFlow National Blvd Campbellfield VIC 30 p. 03 83 00 f. 03 3 008 www.rapidflowgroup.com
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he progressive elegance of the Newport Quays development was a challenge in design excellence. Set on 51 hectares, in the historic heart of Port Adelaide Harbour’s upper reaches, the 2000-residence project is an example of brilliance in community designed living. In keeping with the vision of the architects to create the ultimate lifestyle culture community, it was decided very early on in the project that quality was a precedent; this is clearly reflected in the first stage of the development, Edgewater. Seelite Windows and Doors have worked on some of the most prestigious projects around Victoria since they opened their doors for business in 1982, and during this time, they have established a valuable reputation for quality, pricing, and service within the glass and aluminium joinery industry. Their involvement with the Newport Quays project was not only the result of an insightful and thorough tender, but also the result of their
long-standing relationship with the developer Multiplex. Having worked with Multiplex on a number of previous projects, including the Urban Workshop, and Melbourne Showground, Seelite were well versed with the company’s approach to high quality, safe, and efficient development and, by the same token Multiplex were very comfortable with the outstanding service Seelite have been able to provide. Edgewater provided a good opportunity for both companies to enhance their relationship further and for Seelite to work on a major scale outside of Victoria for the first time. The brief for the Newport Quays project required the supply and installation of all the glass and aluminium, including the louvres and feature louvres. With access to their high tech design and planning workshop, and with their dedication to staff skills, Seelite are able to produce the very highest quality of product specific to their client’s requirements.
This flexibility in design and manufacture provides efficient and precise delivery at extremely competitive pricing and it is one of the trademarks of their operations. Newport Quays, as with any major development project, is a demanding venue to display excellence within time and budget constraints. However, the smooth expedition of the works undertaken by Seelite, and their safe and efficient dedication to their client’s and architects vision has once again demonstrated Seelite’s ability to meet and exceed expectations in every aspect of their operations.
Seelite Windows & Doors Pty Ltd 80 Star Crescent Hallam VIC 3803 p. 03 8 00 f. 03 8 0
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Brothers in arms S
mith Brothers Plumbing Group offer a complete plumbing and pipeline service covering Construction, Emergency and Maintenance Plumbing services, The Hot Water Doctor and Pipeline Technology Services. With their head office in Adelaide SA, they are one of Australia’s largest Plumbing and Pipeline Contracting businesses. With over 150 employees and operating Construction, Maintenance and Pipeline divisions; they are also one of the largest host employers of plumbing apprentices in South Australia. The Construction Division team specialises in Commercial and Industrial Hydraulic Plumbing and Design Construct projects of all sizes and complexities with previous experience on some of the biggest jobs in SA including the iconic and award winning new Adelaide Airport Terminal and the Federal Law Courts. Smith Brothers have an ongoing relationship with Multiplex, having completed projects such as Horizon Apartments, an eighteen storey apartment building on North Terrace; Medina Grand, an award winning heritage restoration and adaptation of the old Treasury Building and Elder House office building in Currie Street. “Multiplex are a top class builder; they are professional; they go in with a big crew and strive to get a professional product built within the program. We know that other quality trades will be involved and the project will be well co-ordinated. For these reasons, Multiplex are good to work with and you can be confident that the project will be successful SA Special Feature - Newport Quays
for all concerned” says Chris Smith, General Manager Smith Brothers Group. Newport Quays is a major development of mixed use waterfront land developing the historical inner harbour of Port Adelaide. Situated within 20 minutes of Adelaide CBD, Newport Quays is an exciting $1.5 billion project with 2,000 homes planned over a project span of 10-15 years. Stage One of the Newport Quays project, Edgewater is situated on the western bank of the Port’s inner harbour and consists of three apartment buildings of four storeys including one level of car park. Smith Brothers Plumbing Construction scope of works included Site temporaries (toilets, lunchrooms, drinking fountains and wash down bay); Hot & Cold water reticulation; Storm water drainage; Sewer drainage; Natural gas; Fire service; Electric HWS; co-ordination with other trades & authorities; Fire rating; Acoustic insulation to sewer & storm water; Ground floor communication & electrical conduits and Condensation drainage for air conditioning. The experienced team led by Project Manager, Nick Wilmshurst and Site Manager, Michael Walters went in with high supervision at the start and put systems in place to ensure the job flowed smoothly as it progressed. Up to twenty qualified plumbers and apprentices were on site at any one time. “The challenges for this job were getting resources there – material, labour, plant and equipment. This is where we can do it because of our size and experience where others can’t.” says Nick
Wilmshurst, Project Manager. “In the early stages, we worked with the architect and builder to procure and set-up sanitary ware samples. Just as an example of the planning involved, there were 145 sinks, 259 basins, 209 showers, 208 toilets, 47 baths, 112 laundry troughs and 145 dishwashers to procure and install.” he said. “Another major challenge was copper tubing more than doubling in price over the duration of the project. We pay careful attention to the scheduling of materials and negotiate with our suppliers to supply goods at the right price at the right time. In this case, we bulk purchased all our copper at commencement to avoid the price rise.” As proud South Australians, Smith Brothers Plumbing is honoured to be a part of this exciting project to inject new life into the historical Port Adelaide area and building a world standard waterfront living environment.
Smith Brothers Plumbing 38 South Road Richmond SA 033 PO Box 38 Marleston SA 033 p. 08 8 3 000 f. 08 83 0 e. smithbros.sa@smithbrothers.com.au www.smithbrothersplumbing.com.au
Making a splash S
outh Pacific Pools have worked alongside many of the biggest names in the construction industry. Their ability to complete projects on time without fuss and within budget and cost constraints has earned them a strong reputation. Having completed several pools for Multiplex in the past, and on presentation of a comprehensive tender they were engaged to provide an indoor wet-edge pool and hydrotherapy spa for the Newport Quays development stage 1 and stage 2. Extensive experience with major construction such as the Multiplex Medina Grand, Horizon and Embassy apartments, and the Bovis Lend Lease Domain Apartments in Adelaide has given Southern Pacific the ability to rationalise their operations and focus on the communication and collaboration required of a large site where multiple
trades are engaged – an aspect of major works that less experienced company’s sometimes struggle with. A small but highly efficient company South Pacific Pools explains that there is no real secret to their success, “We are the largest commercial pool builder in South Australia – not because we are a big operation but because we are an efficient operation. We have excellent relations with our subcontractors and our engineering partners – we treat our people with integrity and respect and this flows through to the finished product. We are all here to do the best job we can. To create a well designed and finished pool, wether it be a small backyard pool or a large 50m Olympic pool.” With over 25 years in the industry, the quality of South Pacific Pools operations is an important feature in their continued success, “Good engineering, excellent hydraulic design and high quality workmanship are all significant factors. We ensure that all relevant health codes and building compliances are adhered to and we operate with trusted and proven partners such as FMG Koukourou Engineers and Austral Shotcrete Constructions on most projects.”
This integrity in business flows through to South Pacific Pools clients, “Once we have established the design, the client knows what they are going to get. It’s a cut and dried process – simply a matter of delivering the very highest quality and ensuring the clients vision is realised.” South Pacific Pools has recently completed projects for Oxianna at Prominent Hill in Central Australia, Sky City Casino for Thinc Projects in Darwin and Unley Council Olympic Pool for Candetti Constructions. “We are happy to have been involved with Newport Quays and happy to renew our acquaintance with all the major builders. Naturally we are proud of the finished result – as we are with all of our pools, wether they be a small backyard pool or a large commercial project.” South Pacific Pools PO Box 3 Unley Business Centre Unley SA 0 m. 0 8 80 0 0 ah. 08 8338 0 f. 08 8338 0 e. southpacific46@bigpond.com
SA Special Feature - Newport Quays
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An architect turns up at his office in his brand new 5-series Beemer ready to bathe in the admiration of his colleagues. Just as he steps out, a garbage truck speeds passed and rips the whole door off the car. The architect grabs his mobile and calls the police. When the police arrive he flies into an indescribable rage and rants and screams and shouts about his brand new Beemer and how it has been ruined. The policeman patiently waits whilst the architect continues his dummy spit. Finally he calms down and the copper shakes his head in disgust, “You architects are all the same,” the copper says, “I can’t believe how materialistic you are. You are so focused on your possessions you don’t notice anything else.” “What makes you say that?” The architect replies dumbfounded. “You’re so busy screaming and shouting about your BMW that you didn’t even notice that half your arm is missing from the elbow down. The garbage truck must have ripped it off when it hit the door!” The architect looks down at where his arm should have been, “Ahhh!” He screams, “Where’s my Rolex!”
An engineer dies and ends up at the pearly gates where St Peter has a look at his books and says, “An engineer eh? You’re in the wrong place.” So the engineer goes down to hell. Unhappy with his level of comfort, the engineer soon begins to make himself useful and starts designing and building improvements. Before long they’ve got chilled beam air conditioning, recycled water flushing toilets, and geothermal power. One day God phones up the devil, “How are things going in hell?” He sneers. “Very well actually.” The devil replies, “We’ve got air conditioning, flushing toilets and even geothermal power to run my plasma off – who knows what this engineer will come up with next.” “What?” replies God, “you’ve got an engineer? There must have been a mistake, send him up here.” “No way!” The devil replies, “He’s a wonderful addition to the team down here and were keeping him.” God is furious, “You send him back up here right away or I’ll sue.” The devil bursts into hysterical fits of laughter and replies, “Oh yeah, and where are you going to get a lawyer!”
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