Projects update

At the other end of construction, the sod has been turned on the Mt Gambier Forestry Centre of Excellence. This joint project by UniSA and the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) aims to advance research and drive innovation in forestry in South Australia’s “Green Triangle” region.

Meanwhile, next door, R&Y’s first mass timber construction project is coming to life. The Limestone Coast Technical College showcases cross-laminated and glue-laminated timber technology using locally and sustainably sourced timbers.

The framing taking shape on site demonstrates how mass structural timber can double as a design feature and showcase environmentally sustainable architecture. The Limestone Coast Technical College will offer students training in four in-demand industries: agri-tech; early childhood and education; health and social support; and multi-trades specialisations. Both Mt Gambier projects are due for completion in 2026.

The new Aquinas Precinct Project also commenced in the first half of this year at Cabra Dominican College, Cumberland Park. Demolition is now well underway, revealing expansive – albeit temporary – views through from the Cross Road entry to the convent and chapel. To cater for student displacement from the old Aquinas building, we installed transportables on the main oval at the end of last year. Enabling works also included the delivery of a small fit-out of the Notre Dame building to the south-east, giving existing science facilities an expanded chemistry store and space for science preparation until construction is complete.

Other projects recently photographed include the new teaching and administration building for Samaritan College’s Saint John’s Campus in Whyalla. Completed in the last quarter of 2023, this new facility has given this hillside campus a statement main entry and additional capacity for growing enrolments. R&Y has maintained a working relationship with Samaritan College across three campuses for more than 50 years, with this most recent project completed as Stage 1 of the 2020 master plan. The design resolved entry to the reception, administration and staff facilities from the carpark at the lowest level of the school. Upstairs, the main piazza comprises a central atrium, canteen, five general learning areas and associated breakouts for flexible learning.

At St Gabriel’s School in Enfield, staff and students are also enjoying their 2024-completed administration building. This project follows the stage 1 classrooms and landscaping upgrades identified within the 2019 master plan. The design for a new administration building called for a reoriented entry with better wayfinding, improving a sense of welcome and connection for this multicultural, community-focused school. The built result is commanding but sociable and, indoors, new features include an upgraded staffroom plus a calm reflection space for staff, along with a series of contemporary offices. Keep an eye out for project profiles on each of these new projects on our website in the coming months.