Sports & Wellbeing Centre Project Update

BRAD CARR, PROJECT MANAGER

Works on the Sports and Wellbeing Centre have really accelerated since the last edition of Ad Astra.

The main structure

The Sports and Wellbeing Centre is very much ‘out of the ground’ and has presented itself to Mackie Oval and Noble Street. Its true scale can now be appreciated.

The main steel structure over the gym courts was a logistical challenge for the contractors, as the large span trusses were lifted in unison to achieve a total span of 40+ metres. The results are impressive, with the clear span over the gym courts providing a ceiling height of 9m above the courts creating a large volume space for players and spectators.

Once the steel structure was in place, the roof was installed over the courts and the balance of the building. This provided the contractors with some relief from any inclement weather and minimised the chance of any weather-related construction delays.

Masonry facades

The masonry facades to both Claremont Avenue and Mackie Oval are now well underway.

The curves in the masonry have provided a break in the large format building, and the brick tones sit nicely against the existing buildings on the Campus.

Utilities

Contractors are working diligently to complete building services rough-ins - laying utility lines out across the three levels of the building - and preparations for internal linings to many areas of the building are well underway.

During the Term 3 break, a new high-voltage power supply was provided to the Senior School campus as part of the works for the new building. This will ensure adequate power supply for the future as well as consolidate several older supplies to existing buildings.

Impact of works

We are conscious of the impact construction works could have on our residential neighbours and our College community. Each contractor on this project works closely with the relevant authorities, as well as the College, to actively minimise disruption wherever possible.

External works

External works to the new driveway entry for the gym basement car park and the service entries are well underway.

Expected completion date

Lyons Construction are continuing to push their program for a target completion in Term 2, 2024.