Whats-Building-108-December-23

what’s
ISSUE 108 - December 2023
BUILDING
Build Together
Teamwork and persistence tell the story
behind Galkangu - Bendigo GovHub

From the CEO’s Desk
Cover Story - Galkangu Bendigo GovHub
A New Chapter - Farewell Clinton Mead
St Aloysius Catholic College
Divisional Employees of the Year
Divisional Apprentices of the Year
Master Builders Tasmanian Awards
Report - Northern Tasmania
Breaking Ground - Anne O’Byrne Demolition
Report - Southern Tasmania
Bethlehem House - 225 Harrington Street
Report - Victoria
Bendigo Food Share
Fairbrother Community Contributions
Master Builders National Awards
Fairbrother Health and Wellbeing Program
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Cover Image: Galkangu Bendigo GovHub
What’s Building DECEMBER 2023 | Page 2
Devonport Waterfront Hotel
What’s Building DECEMBER
2023
2023
MBA
|
National
Page 3
Award for Excellence $20m to $50m

Welcome to the December 2023 What’s Building
newsletter, hard to believe that we’re at the end of
another year! And what a year it’s been, we’ve once
again managed to accumulate some great highlights and
achievements.
As the year progressed, we successfully completed a
number of our challenging pandemic affected projects
– notably Galkangu Bendigo GovHub, The Elliott
Apartments, UTAS River’s Edge, Edgarley Aged Care and
Middleton Prison. These projects are great examples of
the hard work, dedication and perseverance our people
continually display in delivering high quality projects for
our clients.
Another great example is the Devonport Waterfront
Hotel which recently won the MBA National Award
for Excellence $20m-$50m category. We commenced
the project in early 2020 just before the on-set of
the pandemic; we experienced all the well published
issues with escalation, material availability and border
closures – it was a tough project, there’s no doubt about
that. But despite these challenges, one thing that we
were absolutely determined to do was deliver a topquality
project that we’re all very proud of. That’s what
we did. We’ve delivered a high quality, national awardwinning
hotel that sits as a landmark for our hometown of
Devonport, Tasmania – and we’re pretty proud of it.
This is typical of the work and attitude I see from all our
people when visiting our various projects – a genuine
commitment to achieving excellence!
On the non-project front, we’ve made good ground with a
number of strategic initiatives:
• We launched our Graduate Program earlier in the year
with four inaugural graduates entering the program.
We are about to enter our second year and are
working to provide an opportunity for another cohort
of graduates to join our team.
• We’ve progressed with plans to redevelop our facility
at 12 Stony Rise Road in Devonport. This site hosts
around 45 office staff catering for Corporate/Admin,
Business Support Services, North West Construction,
FM, Developments and Joinery, along with our joinery
workshop that is home to another 35 employees.
We have submitted a Development Application with
the Devonport City Council and are due to receive a
planning permit in the new year.
From the
CEO’S DESK
• We have now
also established
a new office in
the North West
Melbourne region.
This is in
alignment with
our Strategic Plan
for the 2023/2024
Financial Year, we
have achieved
the significant
milestone with
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
KURT ARNOLD
the establishment of our newest office at Level 1, 155
Roden Street, West Melbourne.
• Activity within Fairbrother Developments is
building good momentum with a string of planned
developments that includes North Terrace Visitor
Accommodation and three warehouses in Cambridge.
The year has also seen us farewell one of our icons,
Clinton Mead from our Southern Construction division
retired in September after 28 years of service. Clinton has
been an instrumental member of the Hobart team, his
ability to visualise and describe construction methodology
was as good as anyone I’ve seen. His knowledge,
experience and mentorship will be missed. We wish
Clinton all the best as he and partner Tanya enter their
next chapter.
Since our last newsletter, we’ve celebrated a number of
employee years of service milestones - Gary Seabourne,
one of our Hobart based Joiners has achieved 10 years.
Callum Rolls from North West Construction, and Rod
Bennett from Southern Construction have both hit the
15 year milestone. We have Mick Worker from Southern
Construction who has accumulated 20 years. Joining our
25 Year Club is one of our Facility Management stalwarts
in Mick Conceicao from Devonport. And hitting the
significant 30 Years of Service is John Ellis, based in the
Geelong Region. Congratulations on your achievements
and thank you for your commitment to the company.
In this newsletter edition, we announce our Divisional
Employee and Apprentice of the Year award winners
for 2023. These awards are recognition for standout
performance and high achievement. All winners are listed
on Pages 14-15. Congratulations and well done to our
winners who will now be in the running for the overall
Fairbrother Employee and Apprentice of the Year Awards
to be announced in our first newsletter of 2024.
Looking to 2024, the future is as bright as it’s been for a
long time. Our divisional workloads across both Tasmania
and Victoria are in a healthy, manageable position, and
we’re certainly working on some pretty exciting and
interesting projects right across the company. On top
of this, the initiatives we have unfolding in relation to
North West Melbourne, the redevelopment of 12 Stony
Rise Road Devonport and our Fairbrother Developments
projects are setting us up for another exciting year ahead!
As always, thank you to everyone for your support and
commitment over this past year. Wishing you and your
family a Merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year.
UTAS River’s Edge
Construction North
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Building Together
Galkangu Bendigo GovHub
“The name Galkangu
(gull-kang-gooh) is a
Dja Dja Wurrung word
meaning: ‘Build together,
we make together, make
things happen together, more
connected to country.’”
2023 saw the completion of a number of
Fairbrother’s ‘legacy’ projects – those which had
commenced during the challenges of the COVID-19
pandemic. This included Galkangu, the new GovHub
building in Bendigo. The $105 million construction
contract, a joint venture with Icon ST (Aust), had
initially been awarded in December 2020 after
Fairbrother had completed early works on the site.
The initial demolition during stage 1 included
safe removal of asbestos from previous services
and a five-month pause in work as over 100,000
archaeological artefacts were discovered and located,
as well as building infrastructure that dated back to
the 1860s. Upon completion of the archaeological
dig, more than 12,000m3 of structural fill was
imported to site to provide the foundation for the
grand new building.
The design process was conducted under significant
consultation with local traditional owners, the Dja Dja
Wurrung, and incorporated artwork, language, and
cultural features across the project.
“There were a lot of hours spent on design
coordination and collaboration with DJAARA (Dja
Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation),” said
Ben Millar, Project Manager. “We probably picked
six or seven of the ideas and took them through to
completion, one of them being the façade artwork.”
The external artwork, created by Natasha Carter,
depicts ‘giramal’ meaning shield, and ‘buri-gutang
djaa’ which means journey, or travel across country
representing the values of respect, recognition,
reconciliation and self-determination.
At 13,000m2, Galkangu consolidates government
services, housing up to 1,000 workers from the City
of Greater Bendigo and the Victorian Government. A
central hub to provide a unified customer experience
and public sector presence, the facility plays host to
nine local and state government agencies.
What’s Building DECEMBER 2023 | Page 6
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Galkangu (Bendigo GovHub) (continued)
The project required some pioneering in construction,
being a hybrid mass timber building, with limited
examples of its kind in Australia. Many of the construction
processes needed to be proven as part of the project
as there were no existing guidelines in the National
Construction Code or Australian Building Code for mass
timber.
“You’re not using a precedent that’s already been set,”
Ben said. “Which is 95% of our work in construction –
doing something that someone else has done before. We
really had to reinvent the wheel and get things tested, or
get independent assessments made on whether things
worked or not.
So, on a typical project, you’re using details that have
been done plenty of times before whereas on this one we
really had to demonstrate that something worked which
had never been done before.”
The unique shapes and design of the building resulted
in 39 different timber connection types, each of which
needed to be assessed and tested. A total of six fire tests
were held across the course of the project, during which
each of the 39 types were assessed.
An additional unique aspect of the mass timber
construction was the ability to use local timber for the
project. Many of the earlier mass timber constructions in
Victoria have been built using timber from Europe. For this
project, the hardwood used in the beams and columns
came from Heyfield, Victoria, while the pine floor plates
were sourced from Wodonga.
Supply chain concerns, especially for an innovative and
unique project like GovHub had their impact throughout
the process as well. Impacted again by the lack of mass
timber construction previously completed in Australia
meaning that multiple European suppliers needed to be
used to pull together the quantity of fixings that were
required for a project of this magnitude.
“We just couldn’t get the quantity that we needed for the
building,” said Ben. “So we ended up needing to split that
into a couple of different suppliers. We got some plates
and other connection material made locally to offset that,
but it was a challenge, getting all of that when we needed
it.
“In ten years’ time I’m sure there’ll be 50 different
suppliers of screws,” he added. “At the moment though,
there’s two or three that are proven and have all the
science behind their fixings so we were pretty restricted in
what we could use.”
On top of the challenges that came with building what is,
What’s Building DECEMBER 2023 | Page 8
effectively, a new type of construction in the Australian
market, was the fact that the project was impacted by the
COVID-19 pandemic. At its peak, there were close to 250
workers on site, and with restrictions on movement and
travel limiting the ability to bring additional labour from
Melbourne.
“We probably were fortunate with when the peaks
happened that we didn’t have full numbers on site,” Ben
said. “We experienced a couple of peaks when we were
still doing groundworks, and probably had 20 on site so we
were able to make it work during that period of time.”
Initially scoped to be built with a 5-star green rating, a
variation saw the goal pushed to achieve 6-star rating,
which was achieved for the design and, at the time
of writing, is in progress for recognition for the final
construction. Some aspects of the project beyond the
timber framing that have been used to achieve these
sustainability goals include solar panel installation, water
and energy monitoring systems and efficient indoor airquality
systems.
Another unique aspect of the project is the creation of
a mobile app that will provide additional insights into
the building and the land on which it stands, particularly
in regard to the connection to country and indigenous
culture. Stories, videos, and other content including
language lessons will provide visitors to the building with
a fresh understanding of the history and heritage of this
significant Bendigo structure.
Fairbrother’s connection to this building goes beyond the
surface, with the majority of the workforce being Bendigo
locals, and a lot of the joinery and carpentry work on site
being performed by Fairbrother’s tradespeople.
“I grew up in Bendigo, and most of the team – certainly all
the Fairbrother people – were Bendigo locals,” said Ben.
“We had a couple of good walkthroughs at the end where
people were able to bring their families and kids to see
where they’d been working.
“There’s 1,000 people who are going to work in that
building, so most of the people who worked on the
project know someone who will be moving into it, or work
in it in future.”
The project’s success in overcoming pandemic restrictions,
weather challenges, shortages, complex fire testing,
and design changes is testament to the entire team’s
dedication and expertise. Galkangu is a new, significant
landmark in Bendigo and noteworthy for its sustainability
and connection to country and the community.
CLIENT: Developments Victoria
ARCHITECT: Lyons
PROJECT MANAGER: Ben Millar
SENIOR SITE MANAGER: John McInerney
PHOTOS: Ned Meldrum
What’s Building DECEMBER 2023 | Page 9

When Fairbrother made the decision to set up an office in
Hobart, Clinton Mead was one of the first to raise his hand
and join Peter Killick in establishing a company presence in
the south of Tasmania.
The first project for the new southern Fairbrother division
was Loughrans at Rosny in 1993, which subsequently
became Harvey Norman. Clinton spent several years
helping Fairbrother build and solidify a reputation for the
southern division before heading overseas for a period.
Returning in late 1998 and joining the Elizabeth Street
Pier project, Clinton’s abilities were quickly recognised,
and he stepped up to the role of Leading Hand working on
the Hutchins School in Sandy Bay and the Silo Apartments
in Salamanca; Foreman for Gibsons Mill Apartments
and Zero Davey, and then Site Manager for a number of
projects at Moorilla Estate – now much better known as
MONA.
“Zero Davey, that was a pretty challenging build in itself,”
Clinton says. “But then you walk along Elizabeth Street
Pier, Brooke Street Pier, Princess Street Pier, over to the
Silos and Gibsons, just in that one small area there’s been
a lot going on.”
It wasn’t just central Hobart that Clinton saw the
reshaping of the landscape, being Site Manager for the
upgrades in and around Eastlands from 2005-2007,
including the Village Cinemas. His involvement also
Farewell Clinton
A NEW CHAPTER
included a number of other city-shaping projects for
Hobart such as the UTAS Medical Sciences buildings,
IMAS, Royal Hobart Hospital and NRAS in Liverpool Street
– which was Fairbrother’s largest tendered project at the
time.
“Once we built the cinema, as my daughter came along,
it was nice, we’d go over there and take her to the
cinema and be able to say, ‘Dad built this one,’” Clinton
reminisces. “That’s always been an enjoyable part of our
work and what we can do, when you’re sharing with your
family that this is what we built and it’s going to be there
for a long time.”
Clinton played his part in the development of one of
Tasmania’s most famed tourist attractions, having been
Site Manager for a number of early Moorilla (now MONA)
projects, and continuing that relationship as he stepped
up into the role of Project Manager.
Things didn’t always go to plan, and Clinton recalls a
challenge as they were reaching completion on The Source
Restaurant. The large John Olsen painting that had been
done for the ceiling of the building wouldn’t fit.
“We hadn’t been able to get to the artwork itself … and do
a physical measure check,” Clinton recalls. “Then we went
to put it up in this area and it wouldn’t bloody fit!”
All this was happening while trying to get the building
ready in time for a wedding.
“Dave was sitting out on
the lawns, and we were
frantically getting ready
for that, and I went out
there to the grass and
said to him, ‘Look, I’m
sorry, but the painting
won’t fit up in the
space. I can’t put it up
now, but we’ll be able
to fix it up and put it up
later on.’“ he said.
It was building that
relationship with
prominent Tasmanian,
David Walsh, that
Clinton believes helped
with ongoing work at
MONA.
“They are spectacular architectural buildings,” Clinton
says. “They’re phenomenal, and we’re just lucky to have
been involved.”
For all the large projects that he’s worked on, one smaller
project stands out most for Clinton; working in the Gumatj
indigenous community in the Northern Territory to build a
couple of houses.
“That was really rewarding to do something hands-on with
those boys,” he says. “I remember seeing a thing one of
the boys made; he just jigsawed out a little car from a bit
of ply to give to one of his kids. He was as proud as punch,
you know, that he had made this simple little thing to give
to his kids.”
For all the accolades, and all the projects that Clinton
has been a part of, Clinton always brings it back to the
people around him. In the last few years of his career he
has taken on more of a mentorship role, imparting his
knowledge and skills to the next generation.
“I’ve had that chance to see so many of these guys come
through, right from the beginnings of their careers to
where they’re at now.
“I’ve been very lucky to have good people around me the
whole time. The reality is, if you’re happy working with
the people you’re working with, that’s 90% done. I’ve
always had good managers managing me, and I’ve had
good people around me that I’ve been managing.”
So what’s next?
“When I say I retired, I haven’t,” he says. “Just stepping
into the next chapter.”
It’s a chapter that looks quite pleasant, too. Clinton and
his partner, Tanya, have a 20-acre property on the Tasman
Peninsula where they are now able to follow his other
passion: wine.
“At the moment we’ve got a pinot and a rosé, but I’m
going to do a sparkling as well,” Clinton says. “That’s in
bottles now, but it’s still two years away.”
We wish you all the best with that venture, Clinton, and
we’re looking forward to tasting the results!
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From Call Centre to Curriculum
ST ALOYSIUS
CATHOLIC COLLEGE
CLIENT: Catholic Education Tasmania
ARCHITECT: MANA / Playstreet
PROJECT MANAGER: Luke Wardlaw
SITE MANAGER: Adrian De Jong
PHOTOS: Josh Mitchell
Converting a former call centre into a school campus was
an unorthodox challenge, but one that was embraced
by the Fairbrother team. The $20 million redevelopment
included an almost complete demolition of the internal
structures of the building, as well as making use of the
10,000m2 car park to provide external facilities for the
students.
The ‘cold-shell’ fit-out, following the internal demolition,
included replacing the existing computer floor system
with a new timber subfloor that would accommodate the
building’s new educational use.
More than 12 tonnes of material were recycled during
the demolition phase of the project, including a
significant amount of copper from existing cabling. With
sustainability at front of mind, much of the mechanical
services – whilst being reworked to suit the new floor
What’s Building DECEMBER 2023 | Page 12
layout – was able to be reused in the new building.
“An interesting feature of this project is that all the
services run sub-floor rather than overhead,” Site
Manager, Adrian De Jong said. “All the electrical and
mechanical services come up as needed to feed the new
classrooms and spaces.”
The innovative usage allows the building to maintain some
of the original aesthetics, including the feature paneling
that segments the building into thirds and the vaulted
ceilings and windows overhead.
The revamped building has 24 classrooms, a large
gathering communal space, kitchen areas for students,
library, and a basement gymnasium and change rooms. In
addition, science labs, digital media spaces, flexible and
breakout learning spaces and separate staffing areas give
the facility a completely new lease on life.
“Our team got to work transforming the central area of
the building into the school’s main gathering space,” said
Project Manager Luke Wardlaw. “The feature ply seating
bleachers and state of the art audio-visual system makes
it a unique area that can be used communally for students
but also as a learning space when required.”
It’s not just the internal spaces that have been
revolutionised as part of this project. A 10,000m2 car
park meant a significant external landscaping project was
required to make effective use of the area and provide a
quality environment for students to both learn and play.
The external landscape includes a number of unique
aspects, including a geology space made up of sandstone
pillars, dolerite boulders, and sliced quartz to provide
insights into the way different stones form. More
traditional aspects, including a small all-weather oval
and undercover basketball courts provide for physical
activity, and the foresight that activities in the area will
likely include skateboarding saw the fronts of the concrete
bleachers covered in metal to facilitate this.
What’s Building DECEMBER 2023 | Page 13
Internally and externally, what was once a busy corporate
space has been transformed into a learning facility that
will see future generations of Tasmanian students grow.
“It’s amazing,” said Adam Martin, Manager of Facilities
for Catholic Education Tasmania. “They’ve done a really
fantastic job of detailing a series of education spaces
which are going to hold the college strong moving
forward. We can’t be happier as a client to have had
that collaboration with Fairbrother … everyone’s been a
massive contributor to this exceptional outcome.”
In just twelve months, the Fairbrother team has converted
an old, closed call centre into a modern facility that
incorporates the technological advances of today’s
learning environments.
“I’m really proud of how the team rose to the challenge,”
said Luke. “This project provides a warm and welcoming
space for students to learn, socialise, relax, and exercise.
Everyone involved has done an incredible job.”

Fairbrother Divisional
EMPLOYEES OF THE YEAR
Southern Tasmania
Josh Arnold
Josh has had a great year having found his stride
successfully leading and delivering Sorell Emergency
Services Hub, and then flowing straight into guiding
Brighton High School into a promising start. He
communicates clearly and effectively with his team and
subcontractors, leading to a positive and productive work
environment. Nothing is ever an issue with the focus
always on the job at hand. Josh is a great leader and well
deserving recipient of this year’s Employee of the Year,
well done.
Corporate Services
Bree Woods
Bree has fully embraced her new role with enthusiasm
and energy. Nothing is a problem for her, and she has
demonstrated a keen willingness to learn and grow.
Bree has proven herself to be a great trainer and mentor,
having onboarded and supported both Rachel Stoker
and Jaime McGregor. Both have benefitted from Bree’s
knowledge, skill and guidance.
To top this off, Bree provides valuable backup support to
Jaime in Reception. All of this is done with a smile and
cheerful demeanour.
Northern Tasmania
Kurtis Tuck
Kurtis Tuck has been the standout nominee for the award
this year, with outstanding efforts, beginning with UTAS
River’s Edge, before moving on to UTAS Willis Street and
Bothwell.
Kurtis is an excellent communicator and builds rapport
with his peers, subcontractors, consultants, and clients
alike. His growth as a leading hand - and now foreman
- over the last 12 months has been pleasing to watch.
At only 24 years old Kurtis shows great leadership and
potential for the future. Kurtis is an excellent role model
for all employees with a can-do attitude and willingness
to work.
What’s Building DECEMBER 2023 | Page 14
Northwest Tasmania
Seth McGregor
Seth has come leaps and bounds over the last 12 months
while working on UTAS Willis St for both North & North
West divisions. Seth’s commitment and willingness to
learn and take on any task is fantastic to see.
Seth has become a key member in the delivery team
and has earnt respect from his peers with his hard work
ethic and dedication. Seth certainly has a bright future
ahead of him and will continue to be a valuable member
of our Fairbrother team. I look forward to his continued
development over the years to come.
Joinery
Scott Cole
Scott’s exceptional performance throughout the year
is evident, particularly in his role on River’s Edge and
continuing into Willis Street. His successful management
of this large-scale and high-end architectural Joinery
showcases his ability to handle unique and challenging
projects with a can-do attitude.
UTAS River’s Edge stands out as one of Joinery’s most
unique and challenging projects. Scott’s dedication,
paired with his exceptional skillset makes him the ideal
candidate for this award within the Joinery division.
Facility Management
Kory Eastwood
Kory is a highly respected and skilled member of the
Facility Management team based in Devonport. Since
joining the FM team, after a period in Western Australia,
Kory has undertaken a wide range of jobs with his “can
-do”, no fuss attitude. We are able to delegate Kory a job
of any type, and we know that he will do what he needs
to do to get the job done. He is able to quickly establish
relationships with both clients and sub-contractors,
ensuring the best out come for all involved.
Victoria
Mehran Mohiuddin
Mehran joined Fairbrother in 2019 and his individual
development has been fantastic. His methodical
process is exemplary, and his continual Click! ongoing
system development assists the business in modern
contemporary Estimating practices. Well done Mehran!
Fairbrother Divisional
APPRENTICES OF THE YEAR
Southern Tasmania
Cameron Direen
Cameron’s work ethic, combined with his excellent
can-do attitude and willingness to go beyond to meet
project requirements is second to none. Cameron works
well in a team environment and alone, he will take on
and apply himself to any task given to him without fuss.
Cameron is very reliable and is highly regarded from
the entire southern team. Always conducting himself
in a professional manner and with pride he represents
Fairbrother well at work and training. Apprentice of
the year is a warranted recognition of your hard work,
congratulations on a fantastic year.
North West Tasmania
Toby Bailey
Toby has an outstanding work ethic with a no fuss
attitude. Toby is always focused on delivering a high
quality standard of work and is proud of the work he
produces. No matter the task being provided to Toby he
has a can-do attitude and performs the task in a timely
matter with great precision. Toby continues to impress
his direct site managers and senior management. Toby is
already on track to become a top-quality tradesman and
will make a great mentor for his peers in the future. Well
done Toby.
Years of
SERVICE
What’s Building DECEMBER 2023 | Page 15
Northern Tasmania
Lincoln Wallis
This year, there is no doubt in my or anyone in the
Launceston divisions mind that Lincoln has been a stand
out apprentice for 2023. He has been undertaking tasks
that are normally reserved for skilled tradesman and the
way he has grabbed these opportunities and delivered an
spectacular end result needs to be recognised.
Lincoln has shown a great deal of initiative and
drive towards his work. A consistent high output of
productivity, matched with a quiet mature and level
headed work attitude sees him as a very fitting recipient
of the Northern Construction Apprentice of The Year
award. Lincoln has displayed leadership qualities amongst
his peers and continues to impress not only his direct
supervisors but also senior management.
Joinery
Jaymin Speight
Jaymin’s skill set and maturity level exceed the typical
benchmarks for an apprentice, particularly proven in
his exceptional finesse with Architectural Joinery. His
dedication is second to none, whenever a task needs
completing, you can rely on Jaymin to stay back and help
the team in finishing it. Jaymin’s roles on Rivers Edge not
only demonstrated his ability but also highlighted his
outstanding craftsmanship. These qualities pose Jaymin
as the perfect candidate for the Joinery Apprentice of the
Year award within the division.
10 years 15 years 20 years 25 years 30 years
Gary Seabourne
Callum Rolls
Rod Bennett
Mick Worker Mick Conceicao John Ellis

CHRISTMAS
CLOSURES
Our offices will be closed over the
Christmas period as all employees
enjoy a well-earned break.
• Construction sites will finish work on
Wednesday 20 December.
• Offices will close on Thursday 21
December.
All sites will reopen on Monday 8
January 2024.
To everyone at Fairbrother, our
business partners, subcontractors,
consultants, clients, and more, we
wish you a very happy holiday
season.
Safe travels and we look forward to
seeing you in the new year!
39 Frankland Street
MASTER BUILDERS TAS AWARDS
In August, Fairbrother received four awards for excellence
from the Master Builders Association of Tasmania.
• Devonport Waterfront Hotel
(New Construction $20-$50 million)
• Friends WN Oats Centre
(Renovation / Fit-out $1-$5 million)
• Friends School Redevelopment
(Education Facility)
• 39 Frankland Street Launceston
(Renovation / Fit-out over $10 million)
Congratulations to everyone on a successful year!
Friends WN Oats Centre
Friends School Redevelopment
What’s Building DECEMBER 2023 | Page 16
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GENERAL MANAGER
NORTHERN TASMANIA
MARCUS PERKINS
It is rewarding reflecting
on what has been
achieved over the last
12 months as we round
out the 2023 year. We
have seen a multitude
of projects successfully
completed, new projects
secured with a good
variety of size and
complexity, and strong
workloads moving into
the new year. This is a positive position to be in and we
are extremely proud of the efforts our people have made
to put us in this position.
Construction North West has continued with the current
range of mid-scale projects and has seen the successful
completion of Statewide Independent Wholesalers
Awning, Rural Medical School, Fairlands Drive (Alpha
Electrics), Bothwell District School and The Makers
Workshop.
Mersey Community Hospital Outpatients Clinic and
Operating Theatres continues at a rapid pace. The roof
of the main building, E Block, has now been installed. To
have this space watertight is a significant milestone as
service trades and plastering continue to make strong
progress in each of the three levels of E Block.
C Block level one is now painted, joinery is installed,
and vinyl commenced, along with service trades now
commencing fit-off works that will continue through
into the new year. C block ground floor is programmed
to continue, following the completion of level 1. This
project continues for the whole of 2024 with minor stages
following the main build.
Progress at Wynyard Machine Centre has accelerated
rapidly through the month of October and November. All
A rewarding year
NORTHERN TASMANIA
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What’s Building DECEMBER 2023 | Page 18
main floors slabs and structure are now complete, and the
roof and cladding package is nearing completion. Service
trades are progressing well internally with rough in and
fit off taking place. The machine centre pit continues to
progress well with the last pour scheduled for the first
week of December. The focus will then be on stripping
all remaining formwork from the machine pit and casting
in the machine base hold down bolts. Coating of the
machine pit will then take place over the Christmas
period.
North Terrace is progressing well with structure seeing all
the Level 2 floor slabs and Level 3 pour one now complete.
The target is for completion of the main structure in
readiness for the Christmas break. Internal wall framing
and service rough in have commenced on the ground
floor.
Construction North again sees its primary focus on the
delivery of UTAS Willis Street and St Luke’s Health. We
have also secured the demolition package of the Anne
O’Byrne building, adjacent to the Launceston General
Hospital.
UTAS Willis Street is continuing rapidly. Externally, the
façade glazing, and aluminium sunshades are complete,
and the lightweight cladding package is now well
advanced. The atrium scaffold has been removed from
the inside, which is a major milestone and has completely
changed the feel of the building. Joinery, painting, service
fit off and floor finishes are all progress at various stages
across Levels 1, 2 and 3. The remaining existing building
has now been demolished allowing civil works and hard
landscaping to commence.
St Luke’s Health has achieved some major milestones over
the last few months, with the roof now installed, façade
complete and the tower crane removed. Internally, the
central core wet areas on each floor are progressing well,
Click!
along with services through the common areas. The raised
floor commenced in mid-November and is now nearing
completion, which has changed the look and feel of the
building. The newly introduced fit out packages will see
the project continue through until mid-next year.
Our Joinery division remains at capacity, with a full
workload well into the new year. Work for UTAS Willis
Street is in full swing with wall linings and fixed joinery
now being installed on all levels. This project has a large
amount of detail and has been very time consuming for
our drafting team to pull together. St Luke’s Health is
Fairbrother has secured a pivotal project with the
Department of Health, with the Department entrusting
Fairbrother with the responsibility of clearing the path
for a new development that will see the emergence of a
modern healthcare facility.
The project involves the demolition of three mid-1900s
red brick and concrete buildings. The Old Laundry and
Store Building, spanning approximately 2000m², along
with The Boiler House, covering around 560m², will
make way for the future. Simultaneously, the Anne
O’Byrne Building, a substantial structure with four floors
totalling 770m² each, holds a prominent place in the
transformation.
Fairbrother’s scope of work encompasses a range
of technical challenges, emphasising the company’s
proficiency in handling complex projects. The meticulous
Breaking Ground
What’s Building DECEMBER 2023 | Page 19
progressing well but has slowed with the introduction
of the fit-out packages that need to be coordinated with
the consolidated scope. We have seen the completion
of Alpha Electrics and the Makers Workshop, while work
continues at the Mersey Community Hospital which runs
late into 2024. In Hobart, 225 Harrington Street and St
Aloysius are complete, Sorell High is progressing well, as is
the Master Builders and Castray Apartments.
Once again, thank you to all our employees for the efforts
made over the past 12 months and we wish you a safe and
Merry Christmas.
Bethlehem House (225 Harrington St)
Joinery
ANNE O’BYRNE DEMOLITION
planning involves statutory preparations, comprehensive
traffic management strategies, and the formulation of
temporary works designs to ensure a seamless execution.
Given the nature of the buildings slated for demolition,
asbestos removal is a critical component of the operation,
demonstrating Fairbrother’s commitment to safety and
compliance.
The demolition process will involve lightweight stripping,
precision in isolating and making safe existing services,
and a thorough cleanup of the site once the structures
have been successfully dismantled. The project also
presents unique challenges, including the proximity
to public spaces and a busy road. The Anne O’Byrne
Building, situated alongside a major thoroughfare, poses
height-related considerations, while negotiating steep
embankments adds an extra layer of complexity to the
project.

Another Year of Delivery
2023 has maintained the trend of previous years with us
being extremely busy across both Facility Management
and Construction South.
It’s full steam ahead currently, with the pressure on to
complete projects by Christmas! Construction South is
flat out with Master Builder’s Training and Administration
at Cambridge, St Aloysius School, Sorell School – Stage
2, which consists of the Kindergarten to Grade 2 building
plus also a Child and Family Learning Centre, and we have
just handed over Bethlehem House at 225 Harrington
Street. The next challenge of commencing future work is
proving difficult with multiple contracts being secured, but
being held up in the approvals process. It’s a little calmer
in Facility Management, but in the New Year we have
multiple new projects beginning.
The structural concrete works have been completed on
the Letitia Street social housing for Centacare – a fantastic
milestone - and the timber framing is underway. This
project is progressing quickly and has great visibility from
the Brooker Highway.
We have recently handed over Level 2 (office space) of
the Castray Luxury Apartments and are now completing
the remainder of the project with fitting off to the Level
3 apartments progressing. The plasterers are working on
the Level 1 apartments, while externally the installation
of glass balustrades to the decks has commenced and
external concrete works have just begun.
Brighton High is rapidly transforming. All buildings have
the structural component completed, with the five
buildings at progressive stages of completion. Building D
(Learning Centre #1) is the most advanced with joinery
installation about to commence.
SOUTHERN TASMANIA
Beds for Those in Need
The scaffolding has
been removed at
Glenson Place on
Cadbury Road to
unveil impressive
facades. This facility
will provide long term
accommodation for
people living with
mental illness.
GENERAL MANAGER
SOUTHERN TASMANIA
PAUL RANSLEY
We are also delivering
Sullivan’s Cove
Distillery Cellar Door
refurbishment at Cambridge, Queens Walk roofing
package to the existing tower’s which will flow into the
main project – two additional towers of social housing
accommodation, and we are back at The Friends School
remodelling the sports courts.
Our Facility Management team has been busy while our
Divisional Manager, Richard Colman took a well-earned
holiday to Europe. We have maintained a good blend
of responsive maintenance works and smaller projects.
The new year will be hectic with the securing of five new
wash bay facilities for TasNetworks as well as further
works at Huonville, Snug and Smithton. We completed
the refurbishment works at Glenorchy Council Chambers,
installed some body scanner units at the Women’s and
Hobart Reception Prisons and continued with our regular
clients – SRT, Manning Electrical, RACT, Southern Cross
Care, MMG, Elphinstone, Department for Education,
Children and Young People and Tasmanian Catholic
Education Office.
Brighton High School
Construction South
BETHLEHEM HOUSE
After a challenging 18 months, Fairbrother’s construction
of the new Bethlehem House shelter in Hobart was
officially opened in November.
A 50-bed facility, the building complements the existing
24-bed facility on the site of the old Waratah Hotel,
providing a significant increase in the capacity for
Bethlehem House to support vulnerable members of the
community. Providing three levels of accommodation,
the building also provides a number of communal spaces
to encourage community and interaction between the
residents.
The endeavour began with a challenging initial 12 weeks
during which Fairbrother needed to divert an active
stormwater system that flowed directly through the site.
The existing system, which directs most of West Hobart’s
stormwater into the Hobart Rivulet, needed pinpoint
accuracy and some opportune weather patterns to ensure
that it was completed successfully.
“We couldn’t have done it at a worse time of year,” said
Darryn Purcell, Project Manager for Fairbrother. “It was
done from July to September 2022, in probably one of the
wettest springs on record, so it was a logistical nightmare.”
Darryn credits the site team with “exemplary” work
during this challenge, right down to the final stages when
the team had to pick a three day window where no rain
was forecast to cut open the existing stormwater line,
demolish it, and finish the joins in a wet environment.
These high-risk steps were executed perfectly, with the
task being finished within an hour of the rain starting to
fall again.
As the project got underway in the construction phase,
site access and limited space began to provide another
set of challenges. The irregular building shape meant that
significant scaffolding towers needed to be erected, and
the various façades required their own individual attention
to create the impressive final finish.
The externals of the building are a mix of ornate
brickwork, metal-clad nail strip façade, Equitone, precast,
and glass curtain wall, providing a dynamic overall
aesthetic to the building that is both modern and
considered. The glass curtain wall façade in particular
came with its own challenge, being located in an area that
was not accessible by crane.
CLIENT: Homes Tas
ARCHITECT: Tim Penny
PROJECT MANAGER: Darryn Purcell
SITE MANAGER: Travis Smith/Sam Woehler
PHOTO: Josh Mitchell
“Usually, a glass curtain wall is built from a crane bottomup,”
Darryn said. “But because we couldn’t get access, the
whole thing had to be fabricated in-situ.”
The facility also provides operational space for Bethlehem
House, as well as medical consultation rooms, interview
rooms, community rooms and a large dining room and
kitchen serving both this and the neighbouring facility.
Each level has its own breakout communal facility, with a
larger space on the third floor for larger groups to socialise
and get together.
Despite the challenges, the workers on site maintained a
consistent motivation, knowing that they were working to
provide an important support system for people in need.
“We developed that as a mentality,” Darryn said. “As
things got hard, the purpose of this project is to get 50
people off the street, so we generated that as the goal for
us and the workforce.
“There are 50 beds for those in need now, and it was
worth it for that.”
What’s Building DECEMBER 2023 | Page 20
What’s Building DECEMBER 2023 | Page 21

GENERAL MANAGER
VICTORIA
MICHAEL JOSEY
As we come to the end of
2023, the big news is that
we have the keys for our
new North West Melbourne
office!
Located at Level 1, 155
Roden Street, West
Melbourne, the team led
by Ben Millar is working
hard to prepare the office.
New carpet, reconfiguration
of the amenities, and a lunchroom are the initial focus
points, with disability access and signage coming soon. We
have secured our first project for the region, the Parkville
Youth Justice Facility; it is certainly an exciting time.
I am reluctant to ‘go the early crow,’ but I feel the Victorian
commercial construction industry has once again found
a level of normality. We’ve successfully delivered our
legacy projects, and our energy and focus are now looking
forward. We have some incredible and unique projects on
our books, and project opportunities continue to present.
Tendering has been extremely busy, and our estimating
team has worked tirelessly throughout the year. We are
hopeful of being awarded more projects in 2024, which
will be a great testament to the estimating team, our
construction teams, and our clients, sub-contractors,
suppliers and consultants.
Graduate reviews and interviews are now complete, and
we have five current graduates with two new starters.
I’m pleased to note that our current graduates are all
progressing well, with all participants completing the
necessary tasks and gaining experience in line with the
Graduate Program guidelines. We’re looking forward to
welcoming our new starters and seeing them grow in their
careers with Fairbrother. Our team has been proactive
with Deakin, Monash and Melbourne Universities to get
front and centre of new candidates looking to forge a
career in the Commercial Construction sector.
On the project front, California Gully Primary School in
Bendigo was recently completed. A new build as well as fit
out of an 1860 heritage school building, the project quality
is fantastic. Matt Ginnivan and Tim Hurford have done a
great job, and the Victorian School Building Authority has
recognised the success of the project.
Moving forward
VICTORIA
What’s Building DECEMBER 2023 | Page 22
Deakin Hycel at Warrnambool is nearing completion. The
first building of its type in the Southern Hemisphere, this
facility will research the safe use of Hydrogen in longrange
transport. The Woods-Baggott designed building is
looking great and we are planning to handover in the first
quarter of 2024.
a2 Milk at Kyabram is gathering momentum. The
challenges of building in an operational facility are not
insignificant, but we are working well with the clients to
achieve the project objectives. Design and procurement
are nearing completion which should allow construction
to become more efficient.
St Joseph’s College in Echuca is also progressing extremely
well. Comprising two buildings of almost 2,000m2 in total,
there is a fast-track program in place and both builds are
on program or slightly in front. We are looking forward to
handing the project over in April 2024.
The Werribee Open Range Zoo elephant enclosure is
exciting and very different to our normal constructions. A
21-hectare site, the project will provide huge pools, barns,
and an environment that will seek to provide a natural
environment for the elephants inhabiting the enclosure.
We’re looking to deliver toward the end of 2024. Stay
tuned to our socials for more info on this great project.
Maryborough Hospital Redevelopment is being delivered
in two stages. Stage one is a new four-storey building
that provides much needed new health facilities to the
Goldfields Shire communities. We’re looking to complete
Stage 1 in April 2025 and are currently tracking well to
reach this milestone.
Parkville Youth Justice Facility is in the final stages of
organisation. We’re expecting to mobilise site when we
return in 2024 and looking to complete the project midyear.
I’m proud to see the progress on these projects, it shows
our versatility and commitment to delivering client
objectives with safety and quality at the front of mind.
It has truly been a solid year! There have been challenges
that we’ve successfully managed, and the whole team is
looking forward to some respite over the holiday period.
To everyone, Merry Christmas and have a safe and happy
new year.
Bendigo Food Share (Impression)
Central Victoria
Community Assistance
BENDIGO FOOD SHARE
Fairbrother in partnership with the City of Greater
Bendigo, Y2 architecture, and multiple sub-contractors
have come together to deliver the new Bendigo Foodshare
facility. Construction of the new food relief warehouse
has commenced after a lengthy consultation and design
process.
This much-needed facility is vital to secure the future of
Bendigo Foodshare as an essential service provider that
weekly supports around 13,000 less fortunate people
Fairbrother this year was announced as the naming
rights sponsor for the Blokes Biggest lunch which was
held on the 20th of November. The afternoon was a huge
success where $145,000 was raised through sponsorship,
donations, and an energetic auction. Prostate Cancer
Foundation and Bendigo Health were the beneficiaries.
across the Central Victoria region.
What’s Building DECEMBER 2023 | Page 23
The demand for food relief has increased significantly with
around a 60% increase in need over the past three years,
and with the current landscape continuing to pressurise
the expectation is the increase will continue. Fairbrother
has rallied local suppliers and sub-contractors in efforts to
deliver the project as economically efficient as possible.
The commitments to date are truly humbling.
Bendigo’s Biggest Ever
BLOKES’ LUNCH

FAIRBROTHER
FOUNDATION DIRECTOR
GAYE RUTHERFORD
The Foundation has continued its support of the Heart
Foundation with a $10,000 donation in October to the
MyHeart, MyLife program. The program is currently
undergoing a significant review to ensure that it can
provide the support needed to those in Australia who are
experiencing a cardiac event. Pilot testing of the changes
have shown that regular SMS and email messages sent to
participants are seeing improved medication adherence,
attendance at cardiac rehab, social connection and
prompts to seek further medical help when required.
The support provided from the Fairbrother Foundation
is helping to finalise the program rebuild and see it
relaunched in early 2024.
$16,000 was donated in October to the Australian
Huntington’s Disease Association (Tasmania Division),
adding to $14,000 that was raised through a GoFundMe
campaign and will help the Tasmanian Division to
purchase ‘Eyegaze’ equipment. Pilot trials have shown this
equipment provides a breakthrough in communication
Fairbrother Community
CONTRIBUTION
As you would all be
well aware, one of
Fairbrother’s five core
values is Community
Contribution. We strive
to give back to the
communities that our
people live and work
in, this is extremely
important to us. This
We are proud to be able to support Speak Up Stay
ChatTY’s sports program through the Fairbrother
Foundation, with support of $40,000 per year for the next
three years.
Since 2018, the Sports Program has reached more than
6,000 athletes in 150 clubs and across 22 different sports
across Tasmania.
The impact of the Sports Program has been seen with
almost 98% of athletes who take part in the program
feeling more able to look after their own mental health,
What’s Building DECEMBER 2023 | Page 24
value is delivered through charitable contributions
that create direct links in support of our communities.
Charitable contributions are delivered through two
established entities: The Fairbrother Foundation and the
Fairbrother Charitable Trust. Combined, Fairbrother’s
charitable arms have contributed more than $1.35m to
the communities that our people live and work in. We
are extremely proud of this achievement and how it
brings to life our company value of giving back to our local
communities.
FAIRBROTHER FOUNDATION
for those suffering Huntington’s Disease through the use
interpretation of eye movements and an eyepad. If this
pilot is successful, it will have a significant and far-reaching
impact on those enduring Huntington’s Disease, not just in
Tasmania but potentially worldwide.
The Foundation donated $5,000 in October to Trauma
Awareness Network Australia (TANA), a non-profit
grassroots organisation founded in North West Tasmania
in 2018 to raise awareness of and educate about complex
trauma and also advocate for policies incorporating
an awareness of complex trauma and its mitigation.
Foundation cofounder, Royce Fairbrother, attended
a TANA awareness raising event in Devonport on 18
November.
And lastly, the Foundation donated $1000 to the Degree
C North West Electrical team and their Movember
fundraising efforts.
and 99% feeling more confident to help a teammate in
need.
“After seeing firsthand the positive impact of Speak Up
Stay ChatTY’s work, with Mitch and his team presenting
annually to Fairbrother’s apprentice groups on the critical
topic of mental health and how to support your own and
those of persons around you, the Fairbrother Foundation
was delighted when Stay ChatTY accepted our approach
back in 2018 to provide ongoing financial support,” said
Gaye Rutherford, Director & Chair of the Fairbrother
Foundation.
“Being able to significantly increase our support now
in 2023 to help the Sports Program strongly aligns
with our Foundation focus areas of health, education,
youth and local communities, and we are very proud
that the employees and key stakeholders at Fairbrother
whose work and dedication underpins the Fairbrother
Foundation, can now know their support is having this
ongoing and wide-reaching impact.”
We are pleased to support Speak Up Stay ChatTY’s
ongoing delivery of this program in local sporting clubs.
Fairbrother Foundation Director and Chair Gaye Rutherford
with Speak Up Stay ChatTY Founder Mitch McPherson and
Project Officer - Sports Program Alex Fitzgerald
FAIRBROTHER CHARITABLE TRUST
2022-23 saw an extension to the Fairbrother philanthropic
vision, with the creation of the Fairbrother Charitable
Trust. Structured differently to The Fairbrother
Foundation, the Fairbrother Charitable Trust can make
donations to wider charitable endeavours and indeed to
charitable projects that align with the values and goals of
the Fairbrother business. The first project the Fairbrother
Charitable Trust has embraced is the development of a 14-
unit 24/7 supported living facility. This is a purpose-built
facility to support long term accommodation for persons
What’s Building DECEMBER 2023 | Page 25
With the significant role that sporting clubs play in the
local community, an increase in mental health literacy
not only improves the understanding of mental health
awareness within club cultures, but also has a positive
ripple effect into our communities at large.
We love working alongside Speak Up Stay ChatTY and are
proud to be able to support the important role they play
within the community!
living with mental illness and psychosocial disability. The
Fairbrother Charitable Trust has committed to donate
$500,000 per year for four years ($2 million) to Richmond
Investments Tasmania, the charity charged with delivering
this development in partnership with Homes Tasmania.
The facility has been named Glenson Place, in honour of
Thea and Royce’s son Glen and the health challenges he
navigates. This is yet another stunning example of the
Fairbrother commitment and legacy to make our world a
better, more supportive place for those in need.

National Master Builders’ Award for
WATERFRONT HOTEL
Fairbrother Construction has been recognised at this
year’s Master Builders Australia National Excellence in
Building and Construction Awards for the construction of
the Devonport Waterfront Hotel (Novotel).
“It’s really special to be recognised on the national stage
for the quality of our projects,” Fairbrother Chief Executive
Officer, Kurt Arnold said. “We’re proud of the amazing
work that our people produce across both Tasmania and
Victoria, but to highlight this project on a national scale
from North West Tasmania is significant.”
The Devonport Waterfront Hotel took out the Master
Builders Australia National Excellence award for New
Construction (Commercial) $20-$50 million.
“To win in this category against strong national
competition really shows our strength as a construction
company,” Kurt said.
Built as part of the Devonport Living City urban renewal
initiative, the 187-room hotel features a restaurant as
well as office space and meeting rooms. The hotel stands
out as a feature of the area, greeting visitors to the state
as they arrive on the Spirit of Tasmania and serving as a
backdrop to the open space and parkland at the entrance
to the Mersey River.
Commencing in March 2020, the project was impacted
by the COVID-19 pandemic, bringing about challenges
with supplies and labour, including the need to bring in
subcontractors from out of state. It also, though, provided
opportunities for innovation, with the bathrooms for 173
of the 187 rooms being prefabricated module pods that
were manufactured in New South Wales, arriving on site
as complete units and only requiring the connection of
services.
“Despite all of the challenges, we were absolutely
determined to deliver a top-quality project that we’re all
very proud of,” Kurt said. “That’s what we’ve done. We’ve
delivered a high-quality, national award-winning, $41
million hotel that sits as a landmark in our hometown of
Devonport, and we’re pretty proud of that!”
The Devonport Waterfront Hotel opened earlier in 2023 as
the Novotel.
What’s Building DECEMBER 2023 | Page 26
What’s Building DECEMBER 2023 | Page 27

Summer Fun Runs
HEALTH AND WELLBEING
With the weather turning warmer again, fun run season is
back upon us. Fairbrother employees have participated in
the recent Burnie Ten, Run4Geelong, and Hobart’s Point to
Pinnacle (dubbed ‘The World’s Toughest Half Marathon’).
In Burnie, we had 19 participants in the 10km event with
a further three in the 5km course. Overall, the Fairbrother
team placed second in the team results!
Congratulations also to the participants who completed
the Run4Geelong and the Point to Pinnacle.
The following events are coming up in the first quarter
next year:
• Surf ‘T’ Surf – Warrnambool, January
• Run the Bridge – Hobart, February
• Ford Fun Run – Bendigo, March
• Bluff to Boat Ramp – Devonport, March
Don’t forget that as part of Fairbrother’s wellbeing
program, employees and their families are eligible for
free entry to these events; and we will provide you with a
running singlet or t-shirt and water bottle to support you
on the day as well.
Email Rachel Clemens (rclemens@fairbrother.com.au) for
more details.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW MORE FAIRBROTHER PROJECTS
What’s Building, Issue 108 DECEMBER 2023
Fairbrother newsletter
Head Office
12 Stony Rise Road
Devonport Tasmania 7310
P: (03) 6420 7000
E: info@fairbrother.com.au
W: www.fairbrother.com.au
Editor:
Ph: (03) 6420 7000
E: communications@fairbrother.com.au
Contact the Editor if you have an article or
project to share in the newsletter
Next issue: APRIL 2024
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