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What's Building 110 - August 2024

The August 2024 Issue of Fairbrother's newsletter, What's Building. Feature stories include St Lukes Health in Launceston; social housing in Letitia Street in Hobart; St Joseph's school expansion in Echuca; One North Terrace accommodation in Burnie, and 'The Finish Line' luxury apartments in Castray Esplanade, Hobart.

The August 2024 Issue of Fairbrother's newsletter, What's Building. Feature stories include St Lukes Health in Launceston; social housing in Letitia Street in Hobart; St Joseph's school expansion in Echuca; One North Terrace accommodation in Burnie, and 'The Finish Line' luxury apartments in Castray Esplanade, Hobart.

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what’s<br />

ISSUE <strong>110</strong> - <strong>August</strong> <strong>2024</strong><br />

BUILDING<br />

Healthiest Island<br />

St Lukes’ new Launceston headquarters is a<br />

manifestation of their vision to see Tasmania<br />

become the planet’s healthiest island.


From the CEO’s Desk<br />

Cover Story - St Lukes Health Launceston<br />

Letitia Street Housing Development<br />

Report - Victoria<br />

St Joseph’s College Echuca<br />

Report - Northern Tasmania<br />

Fairbrother Developments - One North Terrace<br />

Report - Southern Tasmania<br />

Castray Esplanade Luxury Apartments<br />

Fairbrother’s Gender Equality Action Plan<br />

Master Builders Regional Victoria Awards<br />

Report - Fairbrother Community Contribution<br />

Fairbrother Health and Wellbeing Program<br />

4<br />

6<br />

10<br />

12<br />

14<br />

16<br />

18<br />

21<br />

22<br />

24<br />

25<br />

26<br />

28<br />

Cover Image: St Lukes Health<br />

Castray Esplanade Luxury Apartments<br />

Construction South<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 2<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 3


Welcome to the <strong>August</strong> <strong>2024</strong> (mid-winter!) edition of our<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> newsletter.<br />

It’s been another eventful period since our last newsletter<br />

in April with one highlight being the number of projects<br />

being brought to completion. From St Joseph’s College in<br />

Echuca, Castray Esplanade Luxury Apartments in Hobart,<br />

and North Terrace Visitor Accommodation in Burnie, right<br />

through to the mass timber St Lukes Health building in<br />

Launceston, just to mention a few. I’ve said this previously,<br />

but what really stands out is the level of quality work<br />

we’re producing on our projects – it’s second to none.<br />

I’d like to recognise the efforts of everyone who played a<br />

role in bringing our recent wave of high-quality projects<br />

to completion, we can all be very proud of what we’re<br />

achieving.<br />

The standout of these projects is St Lukes Health. I’d like<br />

to highlight the efforts and contribution of the entire<br />

team who have brought this building to completion. It’s<br />

been a significant undertaking in delivering Tasmania’s<br />

first mass timber-constructed building. The initial Early<br />

Contractor Involvement phase of the project was a great<br />

example of how we can use the vast experience that<br />

exists within the company to our advantage. The St Lukes<br />

project team tapped into the key learnings from our<br />

team involved in delivering the mass timber Galkangu<br />

Bendigo Govhub project, which proved to be of great<br />

benefit. Now, after around 25 months from commencing<br />

Early Contractor Involvement, the building was officially<br />

opened on Monday 22 July. This follows a massive push<br />

from the everyone on-site who gave their heart and soul<br />

to complete this fantastic, high-quality facility for a highly<br />

valued client – well done to all involved.<br />

As you’d be aware, we’ve just seen the end of one<br />

financial year, and another has begun. We have once again<br />

updated our Strategic Plan and our suite of Divisional<br />

Operation Plans for the year ahead. These plans are<br />

From the<br />

CEO’S DESK<br />

shaped to meet our<br />

upcoming operational<br />

needs and are<br />

supported by the<br />

positive momentum<br />

we’ve created across<br />

both Victoria and<br />

Tasmania.<br />

It is definitely an<br />

exciting time for<br />

the company as<br />

we continue with<br />

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER<br />

KURT ARNOLD<br />

a number of key strategic initiatives. Having achieved<br />

a significant milestone early this year, expanding our<br />

Victorian footprint through the Northwest Melbourne<br />

office, we will continue to focus on building our new<br />

team’s capability to bed roots in the region and service<br />

other regions in Victoria.<br />

After spending the past 18 months in the design and<br />

approvals phase, the major redevelopment of our<br />

Devonport facility at 12 Stony Rise Road is very close<br />

to commencing. This project will provide significant<br />

improvement to the office amenity of our 50+ officebased<br />

staff across Northwest Construction, Admin,<br />

Developments, Facility Management, and Joinery. It will<br />

also significantly enhance Joinery’s operational capabilities<br />

and support our growth well into the future.<br />

The redevelopment will include a 100kw solar array<br />

that’s aimed to generate daytime energy for immediate<br />

use, minimising our demand on the energy grid. We are<br />

also implementing two electric vehicle (EV) pool cars<br />

into our fleet – one in Bendigo and one in Devonport.<br />

Both of these initiatives align with our commitment to<br />

sustainability and reducing our environmental footprint,<br />

while also providing our team with efficient and ecofriendly<br />

transport.<br />

Another notable achievement, on Friday 28th June the<br />

Master Builders Victoria Regional Awards were held, and<br />

our quality work resulted in collecting two project awards.<br />

California Gully Primary School, located in Bendigo won<br />

Excellence in Construction of Commercial <strong>Building</strong>s in the<br />

category of $3m-$6m. While our Poa Banyul (Armstrong<br />

Creek Community Centre) project in Geelong won Best<br />

Sustainable Project. Congratulations to all our employees,<br />

subcontractors and consultants involved these two<br />

excellent projects.<br />

Since our last newsletter, Dave Parker from our Northwest<br />

Construction division has hit a significant milestone in<br />

achieving 35 Years of Service. Dave is a highly respected<br />

and valued Site Manager who has always contributed<br />

100%. Dave becomes our 6th employee to hit this<br />

milestone in our 52 year history – nice work Dave! Also,<br />

we have welcomed another new member to our 25 Year<br />

Club: the ever-reliable Craig Saville, Senior Estimator from<br />

Southern Construction who has reached this significant<br />

milestone – well done Sav! Also achieving a notable<br />

milestone is Phil De Jong, Manager of our Southern<br />

Construction division, who has accumulated 15 years of<br />

service. Congratulations to the three of you, and we look<br />

forward to many more years ahead!<br />

Find us on social media<br />

Click!<br />

Architectural Impression<br />

12 Stony Rise Road Redevelopment<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 4<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 5


Healthiest Island on the Planet<br />

ST LUKES HEALTH<br />

The St Lukes Health building in Launceston is the<br />

largest mass timber construction project ever<br />

completed in Tasmania. Constructed with the vision<br />

for a fit-for-purpose office space to bring together St<br />

Lukes’ workforce, the building is a new icon to the<br />

City of Launceston’s cityscape. The 30-metre, sevenstorey<br />

building sets a benchmark for sustainable<br />

business practices in the region and illustrates the<br />

growing trend for environmental consideration in<br />

commercial construction. The building’s design<br />

repurposes existing heritage warehouses, integrating<br />

original timber trusses with modern mass timber<br />

construction. This approach not only enhances<br />

sustainability but also pays homage to the area’s<br />

industrial past.<br />

The new head office stands out for the innovative<br />

construction techniques, which are so unique within<br />

the Australian market that clear NCC guidance or an<br />

Australian Standard is yet to be established for this<br />

type of build. Fairbrother’s prior experience in mass<br />

timber through projects such as Galkangu in Bendigo<br />

provided additional confidence and understanding of<br />

the processes involved in taking a salient project like<br />

St Lukes Launceston to completion.<br />

“The project was always one that we targeted, given<br />

it is the largest mass timber building in Tasmania,<br />

and one of the larger in the country,” said Fairbrother<br />

General Manager – Northern Tasmania, Marcus<br />

Perkins. “We want to be at the forefront of that<br />

specialist industry.”<br />

The choice of mass timber was a visionary one as<br />

much as a practical decision, with the client, St Lukes<br />

Health, seeking to provide a centralised hub for their<br />

workforce who, previously, had been dispersed across<br />

four separate locations in Launceston.<br />

“We wanted this building to be nothing short of<br />

extraordinary: visually stunning, with world-leading<br />

sustainability credentials, using Tasmanian materials<br />

and building local skills,” said St Lukes project director<br />

and board member, Martin Rees. “The project was an<br />

investment both in the health of Tasmanians, and the<br />

environment.”<br />

The use of glue-laminated timber (GLT) and crosslaminated<br />

timber (CLT) are both significant in the<br />

construction of a project like St Lukes.<br />

“The whole structure uses GLT and CLT in its makeup,”<br />

said Fairbrother Project Manager, Jake Herbert.<br />

“Those elements have been used in other buildings<br />

around Tasmania, but certainly this is the first multistorey<br />

building in the state where you’re actually<br />

reliant on the timber for total structure, including<br />

floors, and walls.”<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 6


St Lukes Health (continued)<br />

Prefabricated GLT and CLT components provided an<br />

opportunity for construction that outpaced more<br />

traditional concrete and steel multi-storey projects.<br />

Positive comments about the building rising at a rate of<br />

close to one level per week were received from the client<br />

throughout the construction of the building.<br />

Whilst the initial desire was to use Tasmanian timbers and<br />

products for as much of the building as possible, the new<br />

nature of building a mass timber construction of this scale<br />

was something that required a wider look.<br />

“We approached CUSP, based in Wynyard, to do all the<br />

CLT for the building, but their capacity is still growing,”<br />

explained Marcus. “We wanted them to supply as much<br />

as they could, so they ended up supplying the CLT for the<br />

level 7 floorplate.”<br />

CUSP’s involvement provided a significant innovation in<br />

Tasmanian timbers through the use of Eucalyptus nitens.<br />

The rapid-growing Tasmanian plantation species, typically<br />

used for woodchips, has demonstrated its worth to highervalue<br />

applications such as CLT. The material’s performance<br />

in the project has proven its viability for future mass<br />

timber constructions in Tasmania and beyond.<br />

Sourcing the remainder of the timber materials for the<br />

build was a key logistical challenge in the planning and<br />

procurement stage. The balance of the CLT floor panels<br />

were manufactured from radiata pine, and sourced from<br />

XLAM in Victoria. The GLT components were shipped from<br />

HESS in Austria, where mass timber building is far more<br />

prevalent than in Australia.<br />

“All the GLT for the entire job fit into 12 40-foot shipping<br />

containers,” said Jake. “Basically, we got two containers<br />

a fortnight once the first container turned up. One of the<br />

things that we picked up from the Victorian guys was to<br />

make sure we had an off-site facility for these to arrive so<br />

that you can load it onto a truck and then bring it in as you<br />

need.”<br />

Another significant challenge was meeting the fire safety<br />

requirements for mass timber buildings. Collaboration<br />

with fire engineers ensured that the building met the<br />

necessary safety standards without compromising<br />

the design. The timber’s inherent fire resistance was<br />

augmented with strategic fire safety measures, ensuring<br />

the building’s integrity and safety.<br />

“The challenge is, under the national construction code,<br />

there’s no deemed-to-satisfy provision for mass timber,”<br />

said Marcus. “You have to get a fire engineer on board to<br />

determine what your requirements are.”<br />

Acoustic performance was another area of focus. “Timber<br />

doesn’t perform that well acoustically compared to<br />

concrete, which is very dense. To address this, we installed<br />

raised floors with rubber backing to stop footfall transfer<br />

and enhance acoustic performance,” said Marcus.<br />

With a lack of any universal Australian standards for mass<br />

timber construction, the project team relied on European<br />

standards and codes, as well as collaboration with their<br />

Victorian counterparts to ensure that the project met or<br />

exceeded quality and safety needs.<br />

“There was actually a timber designer from Europe who<br />

was involved in the process,” said Jake. “Given the lack of<br />

standards or codes around this in Australia, realistically<br />

it was a no-brainer to engage someone with the added<br />

familiarity.”<br />

“The next revision of the national construction code will<br />

hopefully cover more about the use of mass timber,”<br />

said Marcus. “An Australian standard will be beneficial to<br />

provide clear guidelines and facilitate more widespread<br />

adoption of mass timber as a sustainable construction<br />

method.”<br />

Fairbrother’s approach to this project demonstrates<br />

a commitment to innovation and sustainability. The<br />

collaboration with local and international partners,<br />

combined with the use of advanced timber technology,<br />

has resulted in a building that not only meets the practical<br />

needs of the client, but also sets a new standard for<br />

sustainable construction in Tasmania.<br />

The building contains office space for St Lukes Health staff<br />

to now have a location that brings everyone together<br />

for a more efficient and collaborative workspace. It goes<br />

beyond being an office, with the ground floor being<br />

dedicated as a wellness hub where the community can<br />

access a range of initiatives, including a St Lukes customer<br />

care centre, the organisation’s first dental practice, a cafe,<br />

and playground.<br />

“We wanted our home to be a built manifestation of<br />

our vision to make Tasmania the healthiest island on the<br />

planet,” said St Lukes Chief Executive Officer, Paul Lupo.<br />

“We wanted the very space itself to be a motivating force<br />

that brings people together to build connections, learn<br />

ways to improve their health and wellbeing, and feel<br />

supported to take action.”<br />

By leveraging the benefits of mass timber and showcasing<br />

innovative design and construction practices, Fairbrother<br />

and its partners have created a building that not only<br />

meets the practical needs of St Lukes Health but also<br />

embodies their vision for a healthier and more sustainable<br />

future. This project serves as a model for future<br />

developments, demonstrating that with the right vision<br />

and collaboration, sustainable construction can be both<br />

practical and inspiring.<br />

CLIENT: St Lukes Health<br />

ARCHITECT: Terroir<br />

PROJECT MANAGERS: Jake Herbert and John Cornell<br />

SITE MANAGERS: Tom Dare and Daniel Fox<br />

PHOTOS: Dave Groves and Rob Burnett<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 8<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 9


Community Development<br />

LETITIA STREET HOUSING<br />

Built for Centacare Evolve, the Letitia Street social housing<br />

project is a landmark development in the heart of Hobart.<br />

This 29-unit project demonstrates the healthy partnership<br />

between Centacare Evolve and Fairbrother, achieving a<br />

positive financial outcome for the client and solidifying<br />

strong relationships.<br />

The design and construct delivery model, alongside<br />

a collaborative approach between client and builder,<br />

enabled the project to be delivered five months ahead<br />

of schedule. The exterior design of the building draws<br />

inspiration from the traditional Hobart workers’ cottage,<br />

with contemporary materials enhancing its modern<br />

aesthetic. The steep-pitched roofs combined with<br />

monotone custom brickwork, textured precast elements,<br />

and vertical nailstrip cladding create a striking façade. This<br />

mix of materials is perfectly complemented by the vibrant<br />

green balustrading, adding a touch of colour and character<br />

to the complex.<br />

Accessibility was a key consideration throughout the<br />

design phase, resulting in the project achieving a Silver<br />

Standard in Liveable Housing Design. This includes<br />

features such as step-free paths of travel to each dwelling,<br />

step-free showers, future-proofed bathrooms to support<br />

the installation of grab rails, and unimpeded paths of<br />

travel throughout internal doors and corridors. The<br />

building also offers dual pedestrian access from both<br />

street frontages, a central lift for enhanced accessibility,<br />

large private open spaces, and communal social gathering<br />

areas.<br />

Fairbrother’s Design Management team played a crucial<br />

role in navigating the site constraints, including the<br />

redesign of multiple precast concrete panels, to allow<br />

manoeuvrability around the overhead powerlines and<br />

other restrictions. These redesigns enabled efficient<br />

delivery and installation, contributing to the project’s<br />

timely completion.<br />

Limited space on site was a significant challenge, with little<br />

space available for construction amenities and cranage.<br />

Solutions to this challenge came through negotiating and<br />

consultation with the neighbouring property, owned by<br />

Turnbull Funerals.<br />

CLIENT: Centacare Evolve Housing<br />

ARCHITECT: Preston Lane Architects<br />

PROJECT MANAGER: Adrian Tseberg<br />

SITE MANAGER: Cameron Byers<br />

PHOTOS: Rob Burnett<br />

“Without leasing Turnbull’s land, it would have made<br />

everything so much more difficult,” said Fairbrother<br />

Project Manager, Adrian Tseberg. “We used Turnbull’s car<br />

park for cranage work and materials staging, which was<br />

crucial for maintaining smooth operations and minimising<br />

disruptions.”<br />

The Letitia Street project showcases Fairbrother’s<br />

commitment to delivering high-quality social housing that<br />

exceeds expectations. The use of custom-made white<br />

bricks instead of painted surfaces not only enhances<br />

the building’s appearance but also reduces long-term<br />

maintenance. Internally, the units are designed to provide<br />

a comfortable living environment, with high-quality<br />

flooring, clean joinery, and thoughtful colour schemes<br />

creating a welcoming atmosphere.<br />

Fairbrother’s ability to complete the project ahead<br />

of schedule can be attributed to meticulous planning<br />

and seamless coordination among the project team,<br />

Centacare, and consultants. The minimal extensions of<br />

time and cost-effective design adjustments ensured the<br />

project stayed on track and within budget.<br />

The Letitia Street project has been met with enthusiastic<br />

approval from the client and the local community.<br />

“Everyone I’ve spoken to about the project is ecstatic,”<br />

Adrian noted. “The high-quality design and construction<br />

have garnered positive feedback from the client, people<br />

walking down the street, and even a guy I was speaking to<br />

at Bunnings.”<br />

Fairbrother’s success with the Letitia Street project<br />

highlights the project team’s dedication to excellence<br />

in construction and community development. As<br />

social housing continues to be a critical need in many<br />

communities, projects like Letitia Street serve as a model<br />

for how to effectively balance functionality, aesthetics,<br />

and budget considerations. Fairbrother’s approach to<br />

this development showcases the importance of thorough<br />

planning, community engagement, and adaptability in<br />

achieving successful outcomes. By prioritising quality and<br />

resident satisfaction, Fairbrother has created a housing<br />

solution that not only meets immediate needs but also<br />

supports long-term community development goals.<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 10<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 11


<strong>Building</strong> the Team in<br />

VICTORIA<br />

GENERAL MANAGER<br />

VICTORIA<br />

MICHAEL JOSEY<br />

It’s hard to believe that<br />

we’re already in <strong>August</strong>. It<br />

feels like the year has been<br />

unusually cold, but perhaps<br />

that’s just me showing my<br />

age.<br />

The last few months have<br />

seen a sharp focus on<br />

recruitment, with some nine<br />

new employees joining the<br />

Victorian team in recent<br />

times. This has been driven by the shaping of our new<br />

Estimating Team in the Melbourne office, which gives us a<br />

strong foundation to improve our tender processes.<br />

The team is being led by Jay Lee, supported by Mehran<br />

Mohiuddin as senior estimator, along with Tim Farrow,<br />

Isaac Yang, as well as second-year Graduate, Cooper<br />

Roberts whose interest in this field has seen him roll up his<br />

sleeves to learn the tendering process. We’ve also brought<br />

on Marija Kocovska who, in the role of Bid Coordinator,<br />

will ensure our tender presentations and materials are at<br />

the forefront of the industry.<br />

Welcome to everyone who has joined the team! I’m<br />

excited to see what the future holds in Victoria.<br />

On the project front, we have seen Bendigo Foodshare<br />

reach practical completion, and was recently handed over.<br />

We’ve been so humbled by the contributions and support<br />

of the local construction industry and community to see<br />

this project reach a successful outcome.<br />

a2 Milk has had its challenges, but we are nearing<br />

completion of the works that will allow specialist<br />

contractors to commence fit out that will allow a2 Milk to<br />

significantly increase its operational capacity.<br />

The Parkville Youth Justice project is with a repeat<br />

client where we are completing hardening works of this<br />

facility. Works are progressing well and expected to reach<br />

completion ahead of what was initially anticipated.<br />

The Werribee Open Range Zoo project is well advanced.<br />

The elephant pools are complete, the visitor experience<br />

centre is progressing well, and the herd barn is well into<br />

final fit out, with the bull barn now commencing.<br />

Maryborough Hospital Redevelopment is up and cracking.<br />

From commencing work on this project only 12 months<br />

ago, the structure is complete, and the façade is almost<br />

there as well. Our completion date is early 2025, but we’re<br />

pushing on to try and finish stage 1 before the Christmas<br />

break.<br />

Poa Bunyal Community Hub<br />

Geelong Region<br />

Victorian Team Celebrating at<br />

the Master Builders Victoria<br />

Regional Awards<br />

We have recently mobilised for a small refurbishment<br />

project at Latrobe University’s Bendigo campus. It’s great<br />

to be back here to work on this project for another repeat<br />

client.<br />

Finally on the project front is the Notre Dame College<br />

Wellbeing Centre. This build has faced its own challenges<br />

progressing through demolition and civil works, and<br />

weather has hindered the progress. We have recently<br />

poured the first ground slab, though, and are really<br />

looking to gather some momentum soon.<br />

On 28 June, we attended the Western Regional Master<br />

Builders of Victoria Excellence in Construction Awards,<br />

where we received two awards. Congratulations to<br />

everyone!<br />

First was the Excellence in Construction of Commercial<br />

<strong>Building</strong>s $3m-$6m for California Gully Primary School.<br />

Delivered by Matt Ginnivan and Tim Hurford as Project<br />

Manager and Site Manager respectively, the vast majority<br />

of this job was completed by our own carpenters, making<br />

this award particularly gratifying.<br />

Meanwhile Poa Bunyal (Armstrong Creek Community<br />

Centre) was awarded for Best Sustainable Project.<br />

Rohan Eves, Tom Woodman, Lyndley McClelland, Angus<br />

Hamilton, John Ellis, and Jarrod Page all should be noted<br />

for their contributions to this great project that achieved a<br />

5-star Greenstar initiative.<br />

Lastly, it would be remiss of me not to mention Aaron<br />

Finnigan whose great work has seen him nominated for<br />

the Young Builder of the Year award for Master Builders<br />

Victoria. This is a prestigious award and Aaron is welldeserving<br />

of the nomination.<br />

With a huge effort in seeking out new business<br />

opportunities, I’m confident that we’ll see some exciting<br />

new projects on the cards in the coming months to share<br />

with you in December.<br />

Until then: Go the Blues!<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 12<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 13


Fairbrother has successfully completed the Stage 2 works<br />

at St Joseph’s College in Echuca, marking a significant<br />

milestone in the expansion of this historic school. The<br />

project, driven by ongoing growth in student population,<br />

involved the construction of two new buildings and was<br />

completed on budget and on schedule. The development<br />

highlights Fairbrother’s commitment to quality and<br />

efficacy in educational infrastructure, ensuring that the<br />

school can accommodate its growing number of students.<br />

The new buildings at St Joseph’s College, designed by<br />

ClarkeHopkinsClarke, include general learning spaces,<br />

arts and science rooms equipped with a kiln and fume<br />

cabinet, a canteen, a food technology classroom, and<br />

unique features such as an aquarium and terrarium. These<br />

facilities are set to enhance the educational experience for<br />

the growing school community, providing state-of-the-art<br />

resources for students and staff.<br />

One of the key challenges faced during the construction<br />

was the reactive ground conditions, which required a<br />

careful approach to the foundations and external paving.<br />

Fairbrother worked closely with structural and civil<br />

engineers to design suitable solutions for these conditions.<br />

In addition, seismic design and construction codes needed<br />

to be met to ensure the safety and durability of the new<br />

buildings. Works on the building structure and fabric<br />

to achieve these codes included internal and external<br />

structural timber walls, ceiling grid framing, framing for<br />

external soffits and bracing of services.<br />

The project also involved extensive waterproof testing<br />

of the building façade, which included testing glazed<br />

windows and doors, compressed fibre cement sheeting,<br />

Expanding Education<br />

ST JOSEPH’S<br />

brick veneer, and skylights. This rigorous testing was<br />

crucial in ensuring the quality and longevity of the new<br />

facilities. Fairbrother’s team demonstrated exceptional<br />

adaptability and problem-solving skills throughout the<br />

project. Innovation was evident in the use of feature OSB<br />

board, which required fireproofing with an intumescent<br />

coating to fulfill Group 1 building product certification<br />

requirements.<br />

Fairbrother’s own carpenters handled the internal and<br />

external timber wall framing, the fit-out detailing, and the<br />

external concrete paving, which received high praise from<br />

the client for its quality.<br />

“The client expressed how well our guys delivered the<br />

external concrete paving, and the architect was extremely<br />

happy with our quality,” said Fairbrother Project Manager,<br />

Rick Carson.<br />

Another challenge faced during the project was market<br />

confidence, particularly in the wake of the pandemic.<br />

“The construction industry wasn’t overly healthy at the<br />

time,” said Rick. “We hadn’t worked in Echuca for a while,<br />

so the suppliers and sub-contractors wanted to feel a bit<br />

more market confidence.”<br />

To provide this confidence, and support the local market<br />

of businesses emerging from the pandemic, Fairbrother<br />

employed a strategy of splitting work packages among<br />

multiple local subcontractors. Noting the struggle to find<br />

a concrete contractor with the capability at the time to<br />

do both buildings, Rick explained altering the plan to<br />

engage a local contractor to do the larger building while<br />

Fairbrother undertook the smaller building.<br />

“This flexibility ensured we had enough resources, and<br />

kept the project on track,” Rick reflected. “It helped with<br />

the program constraints, too, allowing us to build both<br />

buildings concurrently.”<br />

This method was applied to other major components as<br />

well. For instance, the structural steel work was divided<br />

between two contractors, allowing for simultaneous<br />

progress on both buildings.<br />

“By splitting the steel package, we ensured that<br />

both buildings progressed without delays,” said Rick.<br />

“This approach not only provided reassurance to the<br />

subcontractors but also maintained the high standards<br />

expected by the client.”<br />

Supporting local subcontractors and suppliers was a<br />

key aspect of Fairbrother’s approach. Rick highlighted<br />

the importance of boosting confidence among these<br />

businesses: “Coming out of the pandemic, a lot of<br />

subcontractors were hesitant and needed reassurance.<br />

By giving them manageable portions of the project, we<br />

helped build their confidence in their own operations and<br />

contributed to the local market’s recovery.”<br />

A tight program placed pressure on the project from the<br />

beginning, requiring strong collaboration and detailed<br />

planning to ensure successful delivery of the project on<br />

time and budget.<br />

“Credit to all the site guys, they were just focused on<br />

getting it done, and we got it done on time. It was a really<br />

good result,” said Rick.<br />

The completion of this project is not just a construction<br />

milestone but also a reflection of the school’s growth and<br />

evolution. The new campus will cater to the increasing<br />

student population in Echuca, with future plans for<br />

additional buildings as funding and growth continue.<br />

The new facilities at St Joseph’s College also include<br />

culturally significant design elements, such as a yarning<br />

circle and motifs resonating with the Murray River and the<br />

local indigenous heritage. These features, integrated into<br />

the building’s design, emphasise the school’s commitment<br />

to celebrating and incorporating local culture and history<br />

into its educational environment.<br />

Fairbrother’s successful completion of the Stage 2 works<br />

at St Joseph’s College underscores their expertise in<br />

handling complex projects and dedication to delivering<br />

high-quality educational facilities. This project not only<br />

enhances the learning environment for students but also<br />

sets a benchmark for future developments in the region.<br />

CLIENT: St Joseph’s College<br />

ARCHITECT: ClarkeHopkinsClarke<br />

PROJECT MANAGER: Rick Carson<br />

SITE MANAGER: Mark Miller<br />

PHOTOS: Ned Meldrum<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 14<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 15


Future Opportunities in<br />

NORTHERN TASMANIA<br />

GENERAL MANAGER<br />

NORTHERN TASMANIA<br />

MARCUS PERKINS<br />

<strong>2024</strong> seems to be<br />

slipping past as fast<br />

as ever, with strong<br />

workloads having<br />

been seen in Joinery,<br />

Construction Northwest<br />

and Construction North.<br />

For the first time in<br />

around three years,<br />

we have observed a<br />

clear slowing of the<br />

commercial construction<br />

market across the whole North of the state. This has<br />

been expected and even welcomed to some extent, given<br />

how overstimulated the market has been in recent years.<br />

Thankfully, there remains plenty of opportunities in all<br />

regions for future work, on top of what is already secured.<br />

A major personnel milestone was achieved with Dave<br />

Parker clocking up 35 years of services in April. Dave has<br />

been one of our most reliable site managers for a long<br />

period of time and is a highly valued member of the<br />

Northwest Construction team.<br />

On the recruitment front, Greg Cornelious has<br />

commenced with us in July, as an Estimator in Northwest<br />

Tasmania.<br />

Construction Northwest has maintained a broad<br />

range of projects with the Mersey Community Hospital<br />

Outpatients Clinic and Operating Theatres, Northwest<br />

Regional Hospital Mechanical Upgrades, William Adams<br />

Burnie, Botanical Resources pavements, Marist Regional<br />

College and SRT Pavements. Outside these projects, we<br />

successfully achieved practical completion on the North<br />

Terrace accommodation project in Burnie, which is a<br />

fantastic outcome.<br />

Years of<br />

SERVICE<br />

The Mersey Community Hospital Outpatients Clinic and<br />

Operating Theatres has been a hive of activity getting<br />

ready for the handover of C Block, the Central Core and<br />

E Block in July, which was successfully achieved. This is<br />

the largest stage of works now complete, with the team<br />

moving into D block for the remainder of the year.<br />

Northwest Regional Hospital Mechanical Upgrades are<br />

now in full swing, with multiple stages underway. The new<br />

major mechanical plant structure is well advanced and the<br />

Brad Symmons and Marcus<br />

Perkins acknowledging David<br />

Parker’s 35 years of service<br />

mechanical plant to reside on the structure is expected<br />

to arrive soon. This is a complex project that requires<br />

close coordination with the hospital team and our key<br />

subcontractors to ensure a smooth, consistent critical<br />

service delivery.<br />

Marist Regional College has seen the completion of the<br />

temporary MDT shed and associated civil works. We have<br />

also secured the next stage of the project, being the MDT<br />

Redevelopment, which will commence in early <strong>August</strong>.<br />

10 years 15 years 25 years 35 years<br />

Lawrence Robinson Philip De Jong Craig Saville David Parker<br />

Construction North has again been focused on project<br />

delivery, with the Anne O’Byrne demolition project now<br />

complete. We are also now completely finished at St Lukes<br />

Health following the major base build contract and three<br />

separate fit out packages. On the new project front, we<br />

have secured the Launceston Tennis Centre and Scotch<br />

Oakburn College’s Elphin Inquiry & Environmental Centre.<br />

UTAS Willis Street is nearing completion, with the internal<br />

aspects of the building seeing final commissioning,<br />

cleaning and defecting. Externally, works are ongoing with<br />

civil and landscaping scope well advanced. The Boland<br />

Street Pedestrian Bridge completion is also imminent, with<br />

final metalwork items being resolved.<br />

The Launceston Tennis Centre established site access at<br />

the end of May and has commenced ground works and<br />

piling. This is a fast-paced project that will be completed<br />

by Christmas.<br />

Our Joinery division has continued to remain busy, with<br />

the major projects being UTAS Willis Street, St Lukes<br />

Health and Brighton High School. We have also seen<br />

the completion of the Mersey Community Hospital<br />

Outpatients Clinic and Operating Theatres, as well as a<br />

range of other smaller projects.<br />

The Maryborough Hospital Redevelopment is now<br />

ramping up in the workshop for the Central Victorian<br />

team. Prototypes units have been installed, detailed<br />

site measures undertaken, and manufacturing has<br />

commenced.<br />

Mersey Community Hospital<br />

Construction Northwest<br />

As always, thank you to all our employees for the<br />

commitment and effort shown over the past period.<br />

St Lukes Feature Ceiling<br />

Joinery<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 16<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 17


Fairbrother Developments<br />

ONE NORTH TERRACE<br />

CLIENT: Realty Developments<br />

ARCHITECT: ARTAS Architects<br />

PROJECT MANAGER: Warwick Jones<br />

SITE MANAGER: Bernard Schrammeyer<br />

PHOTO: Rob Burnett<br />

One North Terrace is a boutique hotel in Burnie, Tasmania,<br />

and a significant development aimed at boosting the<br />

region’s accommodation options. This project, set to<br />

officially open in September <strong>2024</strong>, adds a new landmark<br />

to Burnie’s landscape and enhances the city’s appeal<br />

to both leisure and business travellers. It was built by<br />

the Construction Northwest team and adds a significant<br />

feature to the portfolio of work completed through the<br />

Fairbrother Developments business unit.<br />

To support bringing this project to life, Fairbrother<br />

has combined forces with long term and highly valued<br />

business partner, Elphinstone. Underpinning this<br />

development project is a 50/50 partnership between both<br />

businesses who are fulfilling a shared vision to bring this<br />

fantastic new accommodation facility to fruition.<br />

The new hotel offers 30 rooms with sea views and modern<br />

amenities such as advanced TV casting, high-speed Wi-Fi,<br />

and on-site parking. The design, featuring extensive use<br />

of glass, precast elements, and vibrant colours, provides<br />

a modern and welcoming environment for guests. The<br />

accommodation levels are strategically elevated to provide<br />

expansive ocean views, enhancing the overall guest<br />

experience. The construction of One North Terrace did,<br />

however, face significant challenges, particularly due to<br />

the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly increased<br />

initial build cost estimates. The original build budget<br />

increased some 35%, necessitating a complete redesign<br />

and value management process.<br />

“We had to bring costs down without compromising the<br />

design intent,” said Fairbrother Developments Manager,<br />

Darryn Smith. “There were a few different iterations that<br />

we went through to refine the structure, but the original<br />

design intent has been preserved.”<br />

Despite the challenges, the original architectural vision by<br />

ARTAS Architects remained largely intact.<br />

Technical challenges also arose due to the site’s basalt<br />

foundation and seismic standards. These challenges were<br />

managed effectively, resulting in a robust and resilient<br />

structure.<br />

“We had to ensure compliance with seismic standards,<br />

which added complexity and cost to the project,” said<br />

Darryn. “In recent years there’s been changes to the<br />

requirements for multi-level buildings and how you treat<br />

those from a seismic perspective.”<br />

The seismic requirements on the project were managed<br />

through a variety of innovative solutions and problem<br />

solving. A solid basalt foundation provided secure footings<br />

at a relatively shallow depth, in some cases requiring<br />

bespoke pad footing dimensions to meet the necessary<br />

standards.<br />

The hotel’s operational model initially includes a staffed<br />

reception to provide a personalised guest experience,<br />

with the option to move to a more automated, contactless<br />

check-in system in the future.<br />

“The facility is set up to be contactless, but we believe it’s<br />

important to offer face-to-face contact initially,” Darryn<br />

explained. “We do also understand that being able to<br />

‘sweep in’ and ‘sweep out’ works for a lot of business<br />

travellers who may need to arrive late or depart early.”<br />

Fairbrother Developments plays a key role in the<br />

company’s long-term growth strategy. In expanding on<br />

the company’s land holdings and adding a steady stream<br />

of construction projects. “Ensuring that a portion of our<br />

turnover is generated through in-house developments<br />

supports our viability and allows us to maintain control<br />

over our projects from inception to completion,” Darryn<br />

said.<br />

The One North Terrace site, which Fairbrother has held<br />

since the mid-2000s, initially served as a car park, and<br />

was the remaining parcel of land surplus to the earlier Bay<br />

Renaissance and Columnar Court developments. Various<br />

development options were explored over the years, with<br />

the decision for the hotel being made in 2020.<br />

With the successful completion of One North Terrace,<br />

Fairbrother continues to demonstrate its ability to<br />

deliver high-quality construction projects. This new<br />

hotel is characteristic of the company’s expertise and<br />

strategic vision, providing a valuable addition to Burnie’s<br />

accommodation landscape.<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 18<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 19


Operational Planning in<br />

SOUTHERN TASMANIA<br />

Sullivans Cove Distillery<br />

Construction South<br />

Since our last Newsletter, all divisions have been active<br />

in Operational Planning for the new financial year. It is<br />

always important to reflect on what we have achieved,<br />

what we have done well, and what we could improve on;<br />

having a solid plan is the key ingredient to measure our<br />

performance by for the next period. This process includes<br />

seeking input and feedback from our management teams<br />

to drive this direction.<br />

A similar theme continues for both business units, with<br />

Facility Management’s run to the end of June being<br />

exceptionally busy. Meanwhile in Construction South,<br />

the gaps created with larger projects finishing have been<br />

replaced with smaller infills while waiting for larger ones<br />

to gather momentum.<br />

On the project front in Construction South, we have<br />

reached practical completion on Castray Luxury<br />

Apartments, Sullivan’s Cove Distillery cellar door, Glenson<br />

Place independent living facility for those with mental<br />

illness and Letitia Street social housing for Homes<br />

Tasmania and Centacare Evolve.<br />

Glenson Place<br />

Construction South<br />

We are currently undertaking three warehouse<br />

developments, two of which are located in Cherokee<br />

Drive, Cambridge. One is for RCCC civil company and the<br />

other for Fairbrother Developments. The third and final<br />

warehouse is being constructed for Elite Appliances at<br />

Bathurst Street in the CBD.<br />

To continue our trend of education work, we have<br />

secured a project at Lauderdale Primary School, which<br />

is a combination of refurbishment, new buildings and<br />

extensive landscaping works. Sorell School at the time of<br />

going to publication will be finally completed after 3 ½<br />

years. A job of this duration can certainly test everyone’s<br />

endurance, but the final result is an outstanding facility<br />

that will significantly enhance educational outcomes<br />

in this area. A big<br />

thank you to all those<br />

employees involved in<br />

the successful delivery<br />

of this project. Finally,<br />

the Brighton High<br />

School continues to<br />

hit all of its targets<br />

and is tracking ahead<br />

of program; it will be<br />

ready for students to<br />

commence in 2025.<br />

GENERAL MANAGER<br />

SOUTHERN TASMANIA<br />

PAUL RANSLEY<br />

Other projects<br />

to commence are the Queens Walk Social Housing<br />

development for Housing Choices. A new carpark for<br />

existing residents is complete, with <strong>Building</strong> E (38<br />

apartments) currently installing CFA piles and bulk<br />

excavation for <strong>Building</strong> F (27 apartments) underway.<br />

<strong>Building</strong> cores will be installed over the coming weeks.<br />

Savage Industries is the new tenant for the old Roberts<br />

building at 2 Collins Street. Stage 1 works include internal<br />

demolition and window replacement for the existing<br />

refurbished building. We are currently pricing the Stage<br />

2 works. We are also completing major renovations<br />

at Mures seafood restaurant at Victoria Dock on the<br />

waterfront – works include new main entrance to<br />

the upper deck, new private dining room, upper deck<br />

restaurant and kitchen refurbishment and the brand-new<br />

Kelp Bar. All these works are occurring while the premises<br />

continues to operate, so the site team are working around<br />

the clock to ensure this is achievable.<br />

The Hutchins School – Edwards Hub project is still being<br />

delayed while an archaeological team conclude their<br />

works, we hope to resume in late <strong>August</strong>. SISU Winery at<br />

Campania is progressing along nicely with the ground floor<br />

and suspended slabs now being poured. Structural steel<br />

will then commence along with the external pavement<br />

areas.<br />

In relation to Facility Management, it has been an<br />

outstanding period, with over $2.5m worth of works<br />

completed during June. These works have been all over<br />

the state, with Tas Networks having projects from St<br />

Mary’s to Huonville and Campbell Town plus the various<br />

local councils – Devonport, Launceston, Hobart, Clarence,<br />

Kingborough and Glenorchy. The recent heavy rainfalls<br />

have increased our workload relating to insurance<br />

claims. Finally, our long-term contract with Risdon Prison<br />

Maintenance was further extended until <strong>August</strong> 2025.<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 20<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 21


The Prestige<br />

CASTRAY ESPLANADE<br />

“The biggest challenge to the pool was detailing the<br />

waterproofing,” said Darryn. “Bounding two separate<br />

residential areas, and an office area, the solution was<br />

critical. This resulted in a project-specific specification<br />

be pulled together from the manufacturer. We then had<br />

a rigid process for monitoring the waterproofing install,<br />

including a fill test before we started tiling to be sure that<br />

it wasn’t going to leak.”<br />

Also of note in this project are the feature bricks used for<br />

their unique contribution to the building’s aesthetic and<br />

historical narrative. These bricks, sourced from a specific<br />

clay quarry in Spain, underwent a meticulous glazing<br />

process in Italy, ensuring no two bricks were the same<br />

colour. The choice of these bricks, designed to emulate<br />

the ripples of the ocean, not only enhances the nautical<br />

theme of ‘The Finish Line’ but also serves as a nod to the<br />

building’s maritime location and the significance of the<br />

Sydney to Hobart yacht race.<br />

“There is no other brick in the world that will look like<br />

those on this project,” said Darryn. “Of an evening when<br />

the light is low, that wall looks like the changing nature of<br />

a blue ocean.”<br />

Managing the heritage aspects of the existing structure<br />

presented its own set of challenges, particularly with<br />

the demolition process required to make way for new<br />

construction while preserving the building’s façade.<br />

One way to ensure the preservation of the building’s life<br />

journey was the reuse of existing materials where it was<br />

achievable. This included the level 2 office batten wall,<br />

made from the existing hardwood floor joists that were<br />

sanded and de-nailed by hand before being reintroduced<br />

into the building as a feature. This was a substantial and<br />

difficult task requiring involvement of the whole project<br />

team.<br />

“We were consistently trying to find opportunities to<br />

reintroduce products back into the building,” said Darryn.<br />

“So, the level two office batten wall became one of those<br />

opportunities.”<br />

As with any project, this had its challenges, from the<br />

integration of modern construction techniques within a<br />

heritage context to the coordination of high-end finishes<br />

and services within constrained spaces; however, ‘The<br />

Finish Line’ stands as a prime example of Fairbrother’s<br />

expertise in managing complex heritage projects, the<br />

ability to innovate within the constraints of historical<br />

preservation, and a commitment to delivering high-quality<br />

results.<br />

Nestled at the edge of Hobart’s bustling waterfront, ‘The<br />

Finish Line’ luxury apartments emerges as a refined blend<br />

of heritage and modern luxury, creating a narrative of<br />

Hobart’s past, present, and future. Seamlessly woven<br />

into the fabric of the Castray Esplanade and looking<br />

out directly across the ending of the famed Sydney to<br />

Hobart yacht race, ‘The Finish Line’ encapsulates a blend<br />

of heritage preservation with modern architectural<br />

innovation.<br />

The original building had been constructed more than 100<br />

years ago, operating as a fruit processing facility for the<br />

Huon Juice Company, before transforming through very<br />

different applications, including office space most recently.<br />

After a long and varied life, Fairbrother’s team was tasked<br />

with transforming it into a modern marvel without erasing<br />

the rich industrial heritage.<br />

“There was no documentation at all on the existing<br />

building anywhere. Consultants had minimal records of<br />

the existing structure, so we had no idea what was behind<br />

any of the fabric. Our first task, therefore, was to strip<br />

the building back to its bare bones and see what we were<br />

working with,” explained Darryn Purcell, Project Manager<br />

for Fairbrother.<br />

The process of renovation, therefore, required meticulous<br />

planning and execution. A significant challenge was the<br />

consideration of the existing, and unpredictable nature<br />

of the building, while integrating the client’s needs and<br />

intent for a high-end finish. The demolition process, while<br />

preserving the exterior façade, became an engineering<br />

feat. The external walls, standing tall at eight meters, were<br />

supported by Slimshor props, and closely monitored to<br />

ensure minimal movement.<br />

“There were survey points along the walls, and we ended<br />

up with a maximum of four millimetres of movement,<br />

through the whole demolition and construction phase,<br />

so that was exceptional.” said Darryn, acknowledging the<br />

excellence of the team who worked on the project.<br />

‘The Finish Line’ is home to four residential apartments,<br />

a level of offices, and car parking facilities, each reflecting<br />

a blend of industrial charm and modern luxury. The<br />

ground floor car park caters to the residential spaces,<br />

each equipped with high-speed electric car chargers. The<br />

residential apartments are crafted for both long-term<br />

use and short-term luxury living, with the latter featuring<br />

a standout cantilevered pool on the third floor. This<br />

architectural marvel, suspended eight meters above the<br />

ground and boasting a glass window at its end, offers a<br />

unique vantage point overlooking the Derwent River.<br />

CLIENT: Willar Pty Ltd - Michael and Pip Cooper<br />

ARCHITECT: Philp Lighton Architects and Dock 4<br />

PROJECT MANAGER: Darryn Purcell<br />

SITE MANAGER: Jonathan Griffiths<br />

PHOTOS: Adam Gibson<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 22<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 23


Fairbrother’s Commitment to<br />

GENDER EQUALITY<br />

Master Builders Regional Victoria<br />

AWARDS SUCCESS<br />

We value our people at Fairbrother as individuals who<br />

bring diversity, skills and experience to make our company<br />

a great place to work. We are committed to building a<br />

team that reflects the diversity of the communities we<br />

serve, and removing any barriers or biases that may<br />

prevent any individual from pursuing a career with us.<br />

We believe that gender equality is an important part of<br />

this and are working to create an inclusive workplace that<br />

strengthens our individual and collective performance.<br />

Our Gender Equality Action Plan includes actions and<br />

objectives to promote gender equality and inclusion<br />

through:<br />

• Working towards achieving gender balance.<br />

• Providing a workplace which embraces and values<br />

individuality and diversity.<br />

• Positive and proactive action against unacceptable<br />

behaviour including discrimination and harassment.<br />

MEASURE<br />

National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC)<br />

https://www.nawic.com.au/<br />

NAWIC is an Australian not-for-profit organisation<br />

which strives to champion and empower women in the<br />

construction industry to reach their full potential. NAWIC<br />

has Chapters in every state and is membership-based,<br />

offering:<br />

• Networking opportunities<br />

• Professional Development<br />

• Advocacy<br />

• Mentorship<br />

• Industry Insights<br />

• Exclusive Events<br />

Fairbrother is a corporate members of NAWIC, which<br />

means that employees can become individual members<br />

for free. Membership is open to employees of any gender.<br />

If you would like further information, please contact<br />

Louise Maconachie, Business Support Services Manager:<br />

lmaconachie@fairbrother.com.au<br />

• Implementing our Flexible Working Arrangement<br />

Guideline to assist employees with balancing their<br />

various work and life responsibilities.<br />

• Engaging with and supporting networks for women<br />

in the construction industry such as the National<br />

Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC),<br />

<strong>Building</strong> Futures Women in Construction, and the<br />

MBA Women <strong>Building</strong> Australia program.<br />

The plan contains gender equality targets which we wish<br />

to achieve by the end of 2025:<br />

• 3% female total trade covered labour<br />

• 7% female apprentices<br />

• 20% female non-trade covered labour<br />

• 35% female management / specialist labour<br />

We are well on the way to achieving them, with strong<br />

results as at the end of June <strong>2024</strong>.<br />

RESULT<br />

<strong>Building</strong> Futures Women in Construction<br />

https://womeninconstruction.com.au/<br />

A Victorian Government backed initiative working to<br />

inform and educate women on what they need to do<br />

to prepare for work in the construction sector. The<br />

organisation also works with employers, on behalf of<br />

women, to harness available work opportunities for<br />

ticketed and job-ready female candidates.<br />

MBA Women <strong>Building</strong> Australia Program<br />

https://www.womenbuildingaustralia.com.au/<br />

This program, delivered by Master Builders Australia, aims<br />

to attract and support women to succeed in the building<br />

and construction industry. It does this through attendance<br />

at career expos, a national mentoring program, a business<br />

resilience and coaching program, maintaining a female<br />

led business register, a dedicated harassment and<br />

discrimination support line, and general information and<br />

resources on the website.<br />

SPLIT<br />

(F/M/NB)<br />

Female Trade Covered Labor 3.0% 6/192/0<br />

Female Trade Apprentices / Trainees 7.5% 5/62/0<br />

Female Non-Trade Construction Award-covered Labor 17.1% 6/29/0<br />

Female management / supervisory and specialist (staff) 17.6% 30/139/1<br />

On June 28, <strong>2024</strong>, the Master Builders Victoria Regional<br />

<strong>Building</strong> Awards for the Western region were held.<br />

Fairbrother was proud to be able to take home two<br />

awards from the evening.<br />

The first, California Gully Primary School Stage 1, was<br />

recognised for Excellence in Construction of Commercial<br />

<strong>Building</strong>s $3m-$6m.<br />

The refurbishment of this heritage building was completed<br />

for VSBA under a permit from Heritage Victoria. Work<br />

included extensions and renovations across the building, a<br />

complete reconstruction of the veranda and original slate<br />

roof, and recladding of the bell tower. A new community<br />

building was also constructed, expanding the primary<br />

heritage structure.<br />

The project achieves a 15% expansion to the school<br />

learning space and provides comprehensive restoration of<br />

the grand heritage façade. Beyond enhancing the school,<br />

the project also sets the stage for future expansions.<br />

California Gully<br />

Central Victoria<br />

Poa Bunyal, the Community Hub at Armstrong Creek, was<br />

also recognised as the Best Sustainable Project.<br />

Built to provide critical community services, including<br />

maternal and child health, and childcare facilities, the<br />

facility provides a plethora of support for families within<br />

the region.<br />

The project incorporates an array of environmentally<br />

sustainable solutions, including charging ports for electric<br />

vehicles, 60kW rooftop solar panels, sitewide irrigation<br />

using collected rainwater and recycled water, and the<br />

installation of a building management system to monitor<br />

the usage of water, power, and gas.<br />

The efforts put into this project from a sustainability<br />

perspective have helped it to achieve a 5-star Greenstar<br />

rating.<br />

Congratulations to everyone involved in these two<br />

projects, it is a great achievement to be recognised!<br />

Poa Bunyal Community Hub<br />

Geelong Region<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 24<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 25


Fairbrother Community<br />

CONTRIBUTION<br />

National Breast Cancer Foundation, an Australian charity that funds breast cancer<br />

research with a lofty goal of zero deaths from breast cancer. This nomination<br />

came from Tim Chiselett, Degree C Mechanical Project Manager, whose family<br />

sadly has firsthand experience with breast cancer.<br />

FAIRBROTHER<br />

FOUNDATION DIRECTOR<br />

GAYE RUTHERFORD<br />

We’ve had a lot going<br />

on in the Community<br />

Contribution space over<br />

the past few months.<br />

Starting with a couple<br />

of employee events,<br />

we’ve participated in<br />

the Cancer Council’s<br />

Australia’s Biggest<br />

Morning Tea, as well as<br />

the popular Shorts Day for Speak Up! Stay ChatTY.<br />

Across our sites and offices, I’m pleased to be able to say<br />

we raised $1,628.50 at the Australia’s Biggest Morning<br />

Tea, and a fantastic $3,205 for Shorts Day!<br />

I’m also pleased to be able to announce this year’s<br />

recipients of our employee-led donation program. You can<br />

see each of the recipients, as well as the reasons behind<br />

their nomination on the next page<br />

There’s been a lot of progress on the scholarship front. We<br />

are providing more support for students with the launch<br />

of two new scholarships, one in Victoria and another in<br />

Tasmania.<br />

Deakin Scholarship Announcement<br />

A new Access and Equity Scholarship (the Fairbrother<br />

Foundation Construction Management Scholarship)<br />

has been created at Deakin University that will provide<br />

$7,500 per year for four years to one student commencing<br />

study in either a Bachelor of Construction Management<br />

(Honours) (four year course) or a Bachelor of Design<br />

(Architecture) / Bachelor of Construction Management<br />

(Honours) (five year course). This Scholarship is part<br />

of our commitment to investing in the future of the<br />

construction industry by providing opportunities for the<br />

next generation of leaders. Applications for the inaugural<br />

scholarship closed in mid-July and we anticipate being<br />

able to share details of the fortunate recipient soon.<br />

Establishing new UTAS scholarship<br />

Similarly, commencing in 2025 students entering an<br />

undergraduate degree at UTAS in Architecture and Built<br />

Environments or Engineering (including double degrees)<br />

will be eligible to apply for the Fairbrother Foundation<br />

Construction Industry Scholarship. This scholarship will<br />

provide the successful candidate with $7,500 per year<br />

for the duration of the degree (to a maximum value of<br />

$30,000). Applications for the scholarship are expected to<br />

open when UTAS scholarships open in early September.<br />

<strong>2024</strong> Scholarship Recipients<br />

We have two recipients of the Fairbrother Foundation<br />

Employee Scholarship for this year, they are:<br />

Anisah Yates, daughter of Colin Yates, who is studying a<br />

Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine in<br />

Hobart, and Bianca Russell, daughter of Todd Russell, who<br />

is studying a Bachelor of Social Work with Honours in<br />

Hobart.<br />

We are also pleased to announce that the <strong>2024</strong> recipient<br />

of the Fairbrother Foundation Royal Flying Doctor Service<br />

Scholarship is UTAS Nursing student Taylor Jones.<br />

In addition to supporting this scholarship, the Foundation<br />

has also been able to provide an additional $20,000<br />

donation to the RFDS. This donation will assist the RFDS<br />

purchase a 3D printer for the production of dentures,<br />

which is a much-needed health service the RFDS is able to<br />

provide.<br />

Foundation Chair Gaye Rutherford with<br />

Scholarship Recipient Bianca Russell<br />

Cure for MND Foundation (widely known for its Big Freeze Fight MND Campaign),<br />

which raises funds for medical research and clinical trials to find a treatment and<br />

cure for Motor Neuron Disease (MND) along with providing equipment and aids<br />

for those with MND. Hamish Curwen-Begg, Fairbrother Project Manager Central<br />

Victoria, nominated Cure for MND Foundation following a personal connection<br />

battling MND.<br />

Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation, which raises funds for the Royal Children’s<br />

Hospital Melbourne, an iconic Australian institution providing critical care and<br />

services to sick children and families. Ben Millar, Fairbrother Manager West<br />

Melbourne, made this nomination after seeing firsthand the care this institution<br />

provides.<br />

DEBRA Australia, which provides support to families living with the rare and<br />

painful genetic skin condition Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), as well as research into<br />

treatments and public awareness raising for EB. DEBRA Australia was nominated<br />

by Sam Gray, Fairbrother Facilities Management and his partner Vrony, whose<br />

nephew and other family members are affected by EB.<br />

Working It Out, one of the very few Tasmanian charities that provides counselling,<br />

support and other services to the LGBTIQA+ community. Josh Mitchell,<br />

Fairbrother Marketing and Communications Coordinator nominated WIO,<br />

following their own journey into gender identity, recognising the significant value<br />

that comes with understanding, safe spaces, and the opportunity to connect with<br />

other members of the LGBTIQA+ community and allies.<br />

Australian Childhood Foundation (ACF), which provides direct services to children<br />

who have suffered or were at risk of abuse, neglect and trauma, in the form of<br />

counselling, practical assistance, emotional support and material aid. The ACF<br />

also conducts research, prevention and education programs aimed to raise public<br />

awareness about the problem of child abuse and family violence. Dylan Graham,<br />

Fairbrother Project Manager NW Tasmania, and partner Bec, nominated the<br />

ACF when their experience as loving foster parents gave them a glimpse into the<br />

impact of childhood neglect, violence and homelessness.<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 26<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 27


Congratulations to those Fairbrother employees<br />

brave enough to turn up for the Launceston Running<br />

Festival over the weekend of 1-2 June! In spite of the<br />

temperatures, it was a great day for the event.<br />

As the warmer months approach, fun run season is<br />

starting up again and there’s events for everyone to get<br />

involved!<br />

The Burnie 10 is on Sunday 27 October, and features both<br />

a 5km and 10km option.<br />

The Run4Geelong on Sunday 10 November offers a Kids<br />

1km event, as well as 3km, 5km, and 10km run/walk<br />

options.<br />

And for the brave ones, the “World’s Toughest Half<br />

Marathon” is coming up the following week on 17<br />

November, Hobart’s famed Point to Pinnacle, taking on the<br />

21.1km adventure to the top of kunanyi / Mt Wellington in<br />

Hobart. The 10km ‘Point to Pub’ option is also available.<br />

A reminder also that Fairbrother employees and their<br />

immediate families are eligible for free entry to these<br />

events. You will also receive a Fairbrother t-shirt and water<br />

bottle to help you on the day as well!<br />

Email Rachel (rclemens@fairbrother.com.au) for more<br />

details.<br />

The Warmer Months are Coming<br />

HEALTH AND WELLBEING<br />

CLICK HERE TO VIEW MORE FAIRBROTHER PROJECTS<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong>, Issue <strong>110</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong><br />

Fairbrother newsletter<br />

Head Office<br />

12 Stony Rise Road<br />

Devonport Tasmania 7310<br />

P: (03) 6420 7000<br />

E: info@fairbrother.com.au<br />

W: www.fairbrother.com.au<br />

Editor:<br />

Ph: (03) 6420 7000<br />

E: communications@fairbrother.com.au<br />

Contact the Editor if you have an article or<br />

project to share in the newsletter<br />

Next issue: DECEMBER <strong>2024</strong><br />

Connect with Us!<br />

What’s <strong>Building</strong> AUGUST <strong>2024</strong> | Page 28

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