What's Building 109 April 2024

what’s
ISSUE 109 - April 2024
BUILDING
Past, Present, Future
Deakin University’s Hycel takes inspiration
from the past to innovate for the future.

What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 2

From the CEO’s Desk
Cover Story - Hycel Technology Hub
Project Progression - Brighton High School
Report - Victoria
Breaking Ground - Notre Dame College
Report - Northern Tasmania
A New Life - Makers’ Workshop
Report - Southern Tasmania
Farewell - John Ayres and Mick Ryan
Apprentice of the Year - Cameron Direen
Employee of the Year - Josh Arnold
Report - Fairbrother Community Contribution
2024 Fairbrother Ride
Fairbrother Health and Wellbeing Program
4
6
10
12
14
16
18
20
21
22
23
24
26
28
Cover Image: Hycel Technology Hub
Hycel Technology Hub
Construction Southwest Victoria
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 3

From the
CEO’S DESK
Hello and welcome to the first edition of our What’s
Building newsletter for the year. 2024 has certainly
picked up where 2023 left off.
Perhaps with the exception of Southern Tasmania,
over the past month or so the current levels of
activity across Tasmania and Victoria are generally
keeping our teams quite busy. Maintaining
momentum will be our challenge as 2024 progresses.
As we’ve begun to experience in the south, we have
a number of projects that are either completed or
nearing completion in most regions. Our teams are
focused on actively targeting new projects that are
planned to commence where we have capacity – this
can often be a moving target. Pleasingly, we’re still
seeing a healthy pipeline of work ahead, it mostly
comes down to timing.
The first few months of the year are always an
exciting period on the recruitment front, with an
annual highlight being our apprentice intake. We
have commenced another 20 new apprentices with
three of these being mature aged (two of whom
were existing
employees working
as labourers); this
takes our overall
current apprentice
tally to 71.
We have also
commenced
our second
formal cohort
of Construction
Graduates with four
recently joining our
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
KURT ARNOLD
Graduate Program. We have a pleasing geographical
spread with our new cohort with one in Hobart,
one in Devonport, one in Bendigo, and another
in Melbourne. We now have eight Construction
Graduates working through the two-year program.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve again had the privilege
of talking with each of our 2023 Divisional Employee
of the Year and Apprentice of the Year award winners
2024 First Year
Apprentices
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 4

who were announced in the December 2023 issue of
What’s Building. From our divisional winners I have
had the task of selecting our overall winners for 2023,
and I can’t express enough just how difficult it was to
separate the great people within this group!
But, as they say, there can only be one winner – so
I’m pleased to announce that our 2023 Apprentice
of the Year winner is Cameron Direen, and our 2023
Employee of the Year winner is Josh Arnold.
Cameron Direen is based in our Southern Tasmanian
Construction Division where he commenced his
apprenticeship in December 2020, and has recently
entered his final year. In chatting to Cameron, you
quicky identify a level of maturity beyond his years.
He is widely known among his peers for his strong
work ethic and no fuss attitude toward getting on
with the job. But what struck me the most about
Cameron was how he described his approach to
guiding and helping his younger fellow apprentices.
This is a credit to Cameron, and I can see some real
leadership qualities beginning to shine.
Josh Arnold is a Site Manager, also based in our
Southern Tasmanian Construction Division. Josh
commenced his career with Fairbrother in December
2009 as an Apprentice Carpenter. He has followed
a career path that has taken him to the role of Site
Manager and is currently steering the $47m Brighton
High School project. Josh’s leadership qualities are
outstanding, and he is motivated by the development
and progression of others around him. He has an
excellent understanding of what it takes to build
good culture across site among our employees and
our subbies, which is evident as soon as you walk the
Brighton High School site - great work Josh.
Congratulations to both Josh and Cameron, you can
see more about them on Pages 22 and 23.
On the 16th and 17th February we held our 6th
annual Fairbrother Ride in support of the Fairbrother
Foundation. This year’s two-day route covered 350km
and 6,000m of elevation riding from Devonport to
Tullah, then back to Devonport. We had set our
donations target at $100,000 and are extremely
grateful to be reporting that the tally has landed
at $108,275! This is an amazing result and we’re
absolutely humbled by the generosity displayed
from all our supporters. You can see more on the
Fairbrother Ride and the Fairbrother Foundation on
Page 26. If we have employees, consultants, clients,
subcontractors or suppliers out there who would like
to get involved in 2025, then I’d love to hear from
you.
We have another new wave of employees achieving
Years of Service milestones since December – the full
list is on page 19. From this list, we have three new
inductees to our 25 Year Club, Scott Cole from our
Joinery division, Adrian (Fred) Lynd from Construction
Northwest and Tim Hurford from Central Victoria
– looking forward to seeing you at our next 25 Year
Club function in October. Another notable milestone
is the 35 Years of Service achieved by our Chairman,
Craig Edmunds. Congratulations everyone, and thank
you for all that you’ve contributed, looking forward to
may more good years ahead!
Scott Cole
25 Years of Service
Tim Hurford
25 Years of Service
Craig Edmunds
35 Years of Service
Adrian ‘Fred’ Lynd
25 Years of Service
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 5

Past, Present, Future
HYCEL TECHNOLOGY HUB
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 6

In the realm of construction and innovation,
Fairbrother’s recent project, the Hycel Technology
Hub at Deakin University’s Warrnambool Campus,
marks a significant milestone. This state-of-the-art
facility, dedicated to hydrogen fuel cell research, is
the first of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.
At the forefront of Australia’s transition to sustainable
and renewable energy sources, Hycel’s primary
goal is research and development into the use of
hydrogen for transportation. The 2,100m² facility
features five laboratory spaces, numerous designated
research and training spaces and a spacious,
enclosed research loading bay to accommodate large
transport vehicles.
“We’ve built the facility to enable research through
to testing, including a fully functional truck bay,” said
Aaron Finnigan, Project Manager for Fairbrother.
The innovative nature of the project stands out
across the academic and research industries, with
Deakin leading the way in Australia in this area.
“It’s a field that hasn’t really been tackled anywhere
else in our region,” said Velina Genova, Project
Manager for Deakin University. “I’m pretty proud that
we’re the first ones to be doing it.”
Architecturally, the Hub is noteworthy for its
integration of sustainable design principles.
Fairbrother incorporated Solar PV cells throughout
the structure, supporting long-term operational
efficiency. Air permeability testing and the use of
energy-efficient lighting and ventilation systems
underscore a commitment to reducing the project’s
carbon footprint.
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 7

Hycel Technology Hub (continued)
Perhaps most strikingly, the building’s design pays homage
to local indigenous culture, a key requirement from the
client, with elements such as the eel basket-shaped,
terracotta-clad front entry symbolising a deep respect of
and connection to the land’s original custodians.
Extensive consultation and collaboration with the region’s
traditional custodians was instrumental in ensuring that
the project not only respects, but reflects the cultural
significance of the site and its surroundings. Indigenous
elements are woven throughout the facility, from the
landscaping to the building’s facade, telling a story of the
land and its people.
The eel-trap entryway is a significant aspect, both
aesthetically and thematically.
“Traditional custodians were leaders of innovation in how
they used to trap and farm eels by altering the waterways;
it was important to bring that connection to land and
culture into the project,” said Aaron.
With sustainability front and centre, the goal of net-zero
carbon contribution permeated the project. Aiming to
achieve certification from the International Living Future
Institute (ILFI) meant certain conditions needed to be
met, including 90 per cent of waste generated during
construction being diverted away from landfill.
“Individually on site we had a seven-bin setup,” said
Aaron. “We had to ensure that different waste materials
were separated on site to ensure diversion from landfill
was being achieved. This team approach resulted in
just over 90.5 per cent diverted from landfill, a great
accomplishment.”
The use of sustainable materials, including ‘green’
concrete and ‘green’ steel, ensuring suppliers had correct
certifications and manufacturing techniques, not only met
but exceeded sustainability requirements.
Alongside this was an extensive hydraulic and stormwater
system designed to aid water conservation measures,
as well as the inclusion of a 202kW grid-connected solar
system, spanning the entire usable roof area.
Specific construction methods were required to ensure
safety and containment relating to the presence of
hydrogen within the building. This included the installation
of dissipative vinyl and earthing copper strips to mitigate
potential ignition sources. In addition, specialised
hydrogen gas and flame detectors are deployed
throughout the building, complemented by stringent
requirements around lighting fixtures and ventilation.
“It was an extensive and interesting process,” said Aaron.
“We had a hydrogen expert on board to assist project
consultants to implement correct safety measures.”
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 8
Project management was a critical component of the
build’s success. Fairbrother worked closely with Deakin
University, architects, and subcontractors to ensure the
project’s goals were met. This collaborative effort was
crucial in managing long lead times for critical components
and integrating complex systems required for the facility’s
groundbreaking research activities.
“The relationship between the consultants, Fairbrother,
and Deakin has been really good,” said Velina. “It had its
challenges but having that relationship with the team and
being able to pick up the phone and talk to each other
certainly made it much easier.”
The Hycel Technology Hub stands as a model for future
construction projects, demonstrating how innovative
design, sustainability, and cultural engagement can be
harmoniously integrated. The facility is a significant
achievement for Fairbrother, Deakin University, and all
stakeholders. It represents a forward-thinking approach
to construction that respects and honours the land’s
indigenous heritage, while pushing the boundaries of
what’s possible in sustainable design and clean energy
research.
“It’s a credit to the team, how well the build was
managed,” said Aaron. “It was a learning experience for
everyone, working on something so innovative.”
As the Hub nears operation, it is poised to become a key
player in the global push towards sustainable energy
solutions. The research conducted within its walls will aid
in the development of hydrogen fuel technology, with the
potential to transform energy systems in Australia and
beyond. Furthermore, the project’s success showcases
possibilities that arise from respecting and incorporating
indigenous knowledge and values into modern
construction practices.
The Hycel Technology Hub is more than just a building; it’s
a statement about the future of energy, the importance of
sustainability, and the value of cultural heritage. Through
this project, Fairbrother has not only cemented its
reputation for excellence but has contributed to a legacy
to benefit future generations. The collaboration between
contractor, designers, the university, and traditional
custodians sets a new standard for how projects can be
approached in both cultural and environmental contexts.
As the world continues to search for sustainable and clean
energy solutions, the Hycel Technology Hub at Deakin
University’s Warrnambool Campus stands as a testament
to Fairbrother’s capabilities. It is a clear demonstration
of what can be achieved when we build with respect for
our past, commitment to our present, and vision for our
future.

CLIENT: Deakin University
ARCHITECT: Woods Bagot
PROJECT MANAGER: Aaron Finnigan
SENIOR SITE MANAGER: Peter Trezise
PHOTOS: Ned Meldrum
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 9

Project Progression
BRIGHTON HIGH SCHOOL
A little over twelve months ago, Fairbrother broke ground
on the Brighton High School, a 12-acre site that will,
commencing 2025, become home to up to 600 students.
As the company marks 12 months on site, the team is
targeting completion ahead of the initial program. It is
a testament to Fairbrother’s construction capability and
project management that the project is achieving this
great outcome.
Project Manager Andrew Burns, alongside Site Managers
Josh Arnold and Dan Young, have been instrumental
in steering the Brighton High School project toward a
successful early completion. In conversation with What’s
Building, Josh Arnold praised the quality of the team as a
key factor in the achievements to date.
“We’ve been able to have Andrew (Burns) on site around
90 per cent of the time which is fantastic for Dan and I,”
said Josh. “But then the crew, we’ve got energetic guys
who are really good at their job, and can deliver and drive
the standards we’re looking for. I think that’s key, you set
yourself up with a really good team because at the end of
the day you’re only as good as the people around you.”
The positive team environment is something that goes
beyond the Fairbrother employees on site, with Josh
giving credit to the subcontractors and consultants
involved in the project as well, and their efforts in not only
creating an environment that is set up for success, but in
contributing to their own roles positively.
That aspect of stakeholder engagement and managing
the various trades, subcontractors, and others, both
on site and involved elsewhere, is a standout for this
project, demonstrating Fairbrother’s adeptness in
stakeholder engagement. Through consistent and
transparent communication, Fairbrother has built strong
relationships with all project stakeholders, including the
local community, ensuring that the school’s construction
reflects the needs and aspirations of its future users.
The size of the site has allowed for a level of project
management that is often unavailable in commercial
construction projects, enabling the team greater
opportunity to store materials and have them at hand
for rapid deployment when necessary. This presence of
materials and supplies also allowed the project team
to expand their focus to construct multiple buildings
concurrently.
‘Building A’ - Gym
Brighton High School
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 10

‘Learning Street’
Brighton High School
“Where we started with Building D, Building E is identical
as well, so we were able to get the shop drawings for that
signed off once D was done,” said Josh. “We were able to
have two buildings almost start concurrently, and then
Building A - the biggest building was also starting, so we
hit the ball rolling pretty early in the piece, being able to
run them concurrently.”
The Brighton High School project consists of five core
buildings - labelled A to E, with Building A housing the
gymnasium and performing arts centre. This building
stands out as a feature when looking across the site,
proudly visible from Brighton’s main road and sitting
above the remaining key buildings. It was a significant
moment, coming toward the end of 2023, for the team to
be able to have not only Building D, but also Buildings A
and E at lockup stage by Christmas.
“I think originally we were trying to have one building
locked up by Christmas - Building D,” said Josh. “It was a
great milestone to have three buildings locked up, and it’s
left us in a really good position with Building A, which is
due to be completed toward the back end of May.”
With the project in good stead for completion in August,
well ahead of the initial October projection, the team is
beginning to turn their attention to the final stages; this
includes finishing touches and landscaping.
The landscaping is a significant remaining portion of the
project, with the school’s ‘Learning Street’ a strong focus
of the intent and design of the facility. Work has recently
commenced on concrete pouring and other structural
components.
“It really complements the project,” said Josh. “It’s going
to look really nice once we see some of the foliage starting
to go into the Learning Street. That’s really going to ramp
up over the next three months.”
As work continues, the team involved with the Brighton
High School is looking forward to presenting the local
community with an exceptional facility that will provide
young people with incredible opportunities to learn and
grow into young adults. Nearing completion, the project
demonstrates that a strong team, a positive culture, and
exceptional programming and stakeholder engagement
are all key ingredients to success.
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 11

A positive start
VICTORIA
GENERAL MANAGER
VICTORIA
MICHAEL JOSEY
The start to 2024 has been
the most positive for quite
some time, with people
and project performances
being positive and, dare I
say it: returning to a level of
normality.
In the early stages of this
year, we said farewell to
Mick Ryan who has retired
after a 23-year career with
Fairbrother. Mick’s contributions in the Central Victorian
division have been significant and we wish him all the best
with the next chapter.
In March, our eight graduates came together from across
Victoria and Tasmania to meet in our new Melbourne
office for their first Graduate Session. A successful day that
was filled with interaction, contemplation, and reflection,
the graduates all had positive feedback to offer.
Speaking of our graduates, a number of them have been
participating in helping to find the next intake. We’ve had
a presence at the DeakinTALENT Career Day, Melbourne’s
‘The Big Meet’, and in April the RMIT Careers Day.
Events like these give us the opportunity to present the
Fairbrother Graduate Program to prospective construction
employees. Despite being a relatively new program, we’re
already seeing a great reputation develop with over 800
applications already received for the next intake!
On the project front, we are pleased to have achieved
practical completion on the Hycel Technology Hub at
Deakin University in Warrnambool. The build is stunning
and is a reflection of the collaborative partnership
fostered throughout the project. It’s been a privilege
to deliver this world-class facility, and we’re grateful to
Deakin University, Root Partnership, and Woods-Bagot
for the opportunity. Congratulations to Aaron and our
Southwest Victoria Team on a great job! You’ll likely have
seen that Hycel is our cover story for this issue, so turn to
page 6 for a deeper look.
Our Geelong Team is continuing work on the Werribee
Open Range Zoo, achieving a significant milestone recently
with the elephant pools being filled and undergoing the
hydrostatic testing process to ensure a great quality result
for its future occupants. The project has hit the ground
running in 2024, making great progress on the 40-acre
site, and we’re on target to achieve practical completion in
the final quarter of this year.
Werribee Open Range Zoo
Geelong Region
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 12

Maryborough Hospital
Central Victoria
In Central Victoria, we’ve recently been awarded a $14m
contract to build the new Wellbeing Centre at Notre Dame
College in Shepparton. Having previously constructed
the Science Centre in 2017, and the award-winning Arts
Precinct in 2018, this third project reflects the team’s
past performance and the professional manner in which
Rick Carson and Mark Miller have conducted themselves
in building a great client relationship through quality
delivery. You can also read more on this project on the
next page.
The Maryborough Health Redevelopment has topped out!
This project is on program with the team investigating an
early completion strategy. Stripping and back-propping
are well advanced with high-level service rough-in,
wall framing, and soffit insulation progressing well. The
team’s focus is now turning toward the structural steel
portal roofing and curtain wall to ensure a watertight
environment. We currently have around 100 workers on
site each day, and we’re looking to increase this to 150 in
the near future.
St Joseph’s College in Echuca is in the final throes of
construction, and again the quality is first class. Company
founder, Royce Fairbrother recently visited the site and
was greeted by our client and the building surveyor, who
were both highly complimentary of our team members for
their forward thinking and quality project delivery.
The a2 Milk Facility in Kyabram has presented its
own unique challenges related to working within an
operational facility. The $10.5m project requires complex
staging to manage multiple inward and outward truck
movements each day. Our team is doing a great job, with
the build entering its final stages, and most of the major
works looking to be complete by the end of May.
Lastly for Central Victoria is our pro-bono project for
Bendigo Foodshare, being delivered as a community
engagement project. A brief introduction to this
project was featured on page 23 of our December 2023
newsletter. Since then, we’ve been humbled by the strong
community contribution from others in our industry, with
a number of local trades and suppliers making donations
in one form or another. Of particular note is Hanson, who
has made a $50,000 cash donation while maintaining
reduced supply rates for materials. We are on track to
achieve our target figure of $3.4m which is a credit to all
involved.
Our focus is also on new business for all our Victorian
regions which will require work by the end of this calendar
year. Opportunities are plentiful with significant projects
available across the board.
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 13

Third time’s a charm
NOTRE DAME COLLEGE
Fairbrother has embarked on the third stage of
development at Notre Dame College in Shepparton,
focusing on the construction of a new Wellbeing Centre.
This new endeavour follows the successful completion of
the Science Building in 2017 and the Arts Building in 2018.
The latter receiving a 2019 Regional Building Award from
Master Builders Victoria for Excellence in Commercial
Construction. This third project with Notre Dame in the
last ten years amounts to over $28m in development and
aims to significantly enhance the college’s infrastructure.
The project, scheduled over two years, includes
demolitions and new constructions, starting during the
school holidays in April 2024. A key feature of the project
is the Saint Colman’s Building, the first erected at the
school in the 1950s, which holds heritage significance.
Its partial retention and restoration blend the school’s
historic essence with its progressive outlook.
“The red brick theme of the Saint Colman’s building is
a significant aspect of the college’s history,” said Rick
Carson, Project Manager for Fairbrother. “We’ll be
bringing the windows up to modern energy efficiency
standards, but the building’s brick facade will remain.”
The Wellbeing Centre is poised to become a cornerstone
of Notre Dame College, encapsulating the institution’s
commitment to fostering a nurturing and inclusive
environment. It will feature modern amenities such as
new administration areas, staff offices, a school canteen,
and eight general-purpose learning areas, all spread across
two stories. The construction will showcase a suspended
concrete off-form slab with post-tension reinforcement,
precast concrete shear walls, and a lift run. Architecturally,
the project will be distinguished by a 43-feature column
colonnade, ensuring a grand entrance to the school.
This new facility is not merely an addition to the campus
but is set to be the new frontage of Notre Dame College,
representing the first impression for visitors and the
college community alike. The impressive nature of this
facility underscores the school’s focus on creating an
environment that is not only conducive to learning but
also reflective of the school’s values and aspirations. With
this development, the college aims to make a statement of
boldness and grandeur, welcoming all into a space that is
both inspiring and welcoming.
As Fairbrother progresses with this important new face
to the college, the project’s significance extends beyond
its physical boundaries. The completion of the Wellbeing
Centre will mark a new era for Notre Dame College,
enhancing the educational experience and well-being of
its community. Fairbrother’s commitment to quality and
innovation, coupled with the preservation of the school’s
heritage, is set to deliver a facility that will serve as a
beacon of excellence in education.
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 14

What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 15
CLIENT: Catholic Education Tasmania
ARCHITECT: MANA / Playstreet
PROJECT MANAGER: Luke Wardlaw
SITE MANAGER: Adrian De Jong
PHOTOS: Josh Mitchell

Continuing the momentum
NORTHERN TASMANIA
GENERAL MANAGER
NORTHERN TASMANIA
MARCUS PERKINS
The start of 2024
has seen 2023’s
momentum continue
with all our divisions
working at capacity. The
construction industry in
Northern Tasmania has
a positive outlook, with
several major projects
advancing and some
being released to the
market.
A major milestone was seen with Adrian “Fred” Lynd
achieving 25 years of service in March. Fred is one of the
people who you want in your team and has contributed
greatly over a long period.
March also saw the departure of long-term employee,
Wade McCreadie. Wade successfully delivered a range of
major projects in the role of a Site Manager. We wish him
all the best in his next endeavour.
Construction Northwest continues to progress well with
our broad range of projects, across the entire coast. We
have seen the commencement of the Marist Regional
College – Temporary MDT building; a workshop facility in
Latrobe for our long-term client Fieldwicks, and a major
mechanical upgrade at the Northwest Regional Hospital.
Work is continuing at the Mersey Community Hospital
Outpatients Clinic and Operating Theatres. The next
significant milestone is the scheduled handover of C Block,
Central Core and E Block in July. E Block is the largest
package of work in this contract and will leave minor
packages to complete over the following 12 months.
Wynyard Machine Centre is now complete, with
some minor works continuing. This was an extremely
complicated project, in particular the detailed machine
footing that had complex geometry and tolerances less
than 1mm. Our team has gone above and beyond to get
this completed on a tight timeframe, for another highly
valued long-term client Elphinstone.
North Terrace Apartments are progressing well. Externally,
structure, roofing and glazing are complete. Internally,
plastering is complete on Level 1, painting commenced,
and joinery is imminent. Overall, the project is progressing
well and on track for a June completion.
Construction North remains focused on the delivery of
UTAS Willis Street, St Lukes Health, and Anne O’Byrne
Demolition. We are now actively seeking the next
opportunity, for our teams to transition into following the
completion of these projects. Thankfully there are some
good opportunities in the Launceston region.
UTAS Willis Street has seen a high level of activity and
solid progress across the entire site. Internal works are
ongoing, with services and finishing trades forging ahead.
Externally, the civil subcontractor has been conducting
works to the car park and general site preparation for hard
and soft landscaping. The Boland Street Pedestrian Bridge
is progressing well, with kerbs now poured and handrail
installation to be completed over the coming months.
St Lukes Health has achieved a few significant milestones
recently, completing the base build. The Newton and
Henry fit out of Level 2 is also complete and we have seen
the handover of a section of the ground floor to allow
safe access to Level 2. Work continues with the fit-out
packages on the ground floor, Level 5, Level 6 and Level 7,
all of which are due for completion mid-year.
The Anne O’Byrne Demolition is progressing well, the
boiler house and supply building have been removed to
ground level and the removal of in-ground structures
has commenced. The Anne O’Byrne building has been
demolished down to Level 2. This project has taken a lot
of detailed planning, given the close proximity of Howick
Street to the 4- level Anne O’Byrne structure.
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What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 16

Our Joinery Division has finally concluded a period that
saw the team stretched due to a number of concurrent
projects. The effort from team members has been
commendable.
Fixed joinery and wall linings are now being installed
across all levels at UTAS Willis Street in Launceston. Levels
1 and 2 are nearing completion and Level 3 is around 50%
complete.
Also in Launceston, the team are progressing well on
St Lukes Health with large portions of scope being
undertaken on the ground floor, as well as working on a
feature ceiling for Level 7.
In the northwest, installation is scheduled for North
Terrace Apartments around mid-April. The team have also
been continuing work on various aspects at the Mersey
Community Hospital site.
The primary focus for joinery in Hobart is the Brighton
High School, which is progressing well, and the final stage
at Sorell School.
The Joinery team has also commenced work on the
Maryborough Hospital Redevelopment for Central
Victoria. Shop drawing is well advanced and prototypes
have been built.
Once again, thank you to all our employees for the efforts
made over the start of this year.
Wynyard Machine Centre
Construction Northwest
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 17

What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 18
CLIENT: University of Tasmania
ARCHITECT: Liminal Architecture
PROJECT MANAGER: Ben Hawkes
SITE MANAGER: Callum Rolls
PHOTOS: Dave Groves

A New Life
MAKERS WORKSHOP
Originally constructed by Fairbrother over a decade
ago, the Maker’s Workshop has transitioned from
museum to a vibrant space dedicated to the Tasmanian
Institute of Agriculture (TIA), the College of Business and
Economics Tech Solutions Hub, a business incubator, and
a public demonstration area. Following the University of
Tasmania’s decision to reimagine and reopen the space,
the northwest of Tasmania now benefits from a modern
centre of ‘making’ that allows for hands-on learning
experiences, the progression and development of business
ideas, and advancement of the region’s key industries
through specialised technology, training and research.
“It was originally built for the Paper Making Museum,”
said Ben Hawkes, Project Manager for Fairbrother. “But
the recently it’s been sitting there without much use.”
Working with a close client in the University of Tasmania,
the project sought to revitalise the building with the
development of high-quality learning facilities alongside
vibrant and creative open spaces, as well as offices for
staff, and a high-end agricultural lab.
A crucial aspect of the renovation was the extensive
internal demolition required to facilitate the new
design’s open spaces and learning facilities. This redesign
introduced a significant structural overhaul, including the
installation of internal steel structures to accommodate
workspaces and a mezzanine floor for the mechanical
plant deck. The internal composition comprised metal
stud framing, plasterboard, and internal glazed partitions,
ensuring a modern and functional interior conducive to
the hub’s educational and innovative activities.
features in colours that resonate with the city’s vibrancy.
This choice was not only stylistic but also functional,
addressing the need for sound management in the large
open spaces to create a conducive environment for
learning and collaboration. Similarly, the lighting fixtures
were selected with precision, balancing the requirements
for energy efficiency with the need to provide adequate
illumination for the hub’s diverse activities.
The renovation faced several challenges, among them
the long lead times required for essential materials such
as flooring, wall linings, and supplies. The project team’s
foresight in anticipating these issues allowed for early
resolution, ensuring that delays were minimised.
“It was a short program,” said Ben. “A lot of the items
being supplied had long lead times, and were quite hightech,
so a lot of it had to be procured very early on.”
Another challenge was integrating new and existing
Building Management Systems, which demanded
extensive consultation and collaboration to achieve a
seamless operational framework.
The outcome of this transformative project is a modern,
multifunctional facility that stands at the intersection
of education, innovation, and community engagement.
The Maker’s Workshop now offers the community a
dynamic space for learning, discovery, and innovation.
This project underscores the potential of adaptive reuse in
contemporary architecture and education, demonstrating
how existing structures can be reimagined to serve
new purposes in response to evolving societal and
technological demands.
Notably, the project featured distinctive acoustic panelling
and lighting fixtures, crucial elements that underscore the
building’s functional and aesthetic transformation. The
acoustic panelling, designed to mimic the urban landscape
of Burnie City, incorporated detailed container-like
Years of
The renovation of the Maker’s Workshop is particularly
significant for Fairbrother, representing not only a
continuation of the long-standing relationship with the
University of Tasmania but also a reaffirmation of their
expertise in managing complex renovation projects.
SERVICE
15 years 25 years 35 years
Chris Peter
Abby Sims
Scott Cole
Adrian Lynd
Tim Hurford
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 19
Craig Edmunds

Completing projects
SOUTHERN TASMANIA
After a sustained period of being extremely busy since
COVID, Construction South is currently seeing a decline in
workload with several projects nearing completion in the
run up to Easter. This impact, plus challenges in getting
projects commenced, will result in a quieter period.
Facility Management on the other hand is extremely busy
across the state, with multiple projects commencing, plus
the constant influx of reactive maintenance.
A significant retirement took place in February when we
said goodbye to John ‘Froggy’ Ayres after 25 years of
service to the company. All the best for the future, Froggy!
Facility Management has seen a significant amount
of work completed since Christmas, including the
Bridgewater wash bay for TasNetworks, a house
demolition at Snug, and upgrades for the New Norfolk
Hospital in the south of the state. Further north, we
have also completed civil works at Smithton, a student
accommodation house for UTAS at Latrobe, and works at
the Visitors’ Centre and Miners’ Hut for MMG in Rosebery.
Current projects include additional work for TasNetworks
across the state. We also have the Launceston Remand
Centre body scanner installation, a pool slide access
stairway for Devonport Council, Parkside Renal Facility
Store, building maintenance for Elphinstone, a fitout for
Service Tasmania in Wynyard, and RACT Faraday Street
to name a few. The wide range of these works highlights
the diversity of skills that our Facility Management team
possesses.
As this issue is released, Construction South is closing
in on completion at Castray Esplanade. We are in the
final stages of this high-quality bespoke fitout, with the
cantilever pool and external driveway being worked on.
Stage 3 at Sorell School has commenced following
completion of Stage 2 (Kindergarten to Grade 2) in
December and the Children and Early Learning Centre
reaching practical completion in February. Works to date
have involved demolition and the removal of hazardous
materials. The project is progressing well with an
anticipated completion date in August.
Glenson Place in
Claremont, a supported
independent living
facility for those
with mental illness,
is also on the edge
of completion as this
issue goes to press.
Internally, plastering
is nearly done, joinery
installation is close
to completion and
the external works
and landscaping are
transforming the site.
GENERAL MANAGER
SOUTHERN TASMANIA
PAUL RANSLEY
Brighton High School is another project that demonstrates
how a well-managed site, and a structured program can
pay massive dividends, with the project trending for an
early completion. We are targeting to have the first of
the classroom buildings (Building D) completed by the
end of March. In the gym (Building A), plastering is nearly
complete, which will be followed by the ply linings. All
trades are then flowing into Building B, then E and finally
Building C where roofing has been completed and cladding
has commenced. Externally the learning zone through the
centre spine between the buildings has garden beds and
stairs ongoing and the sports oval has been seeded. This
project has been a huge success so far and is featured on
page 10.
From a new project point of view, we have recently been
successful in securing SISU Winery and also the Edwards
Hub at Hutchins. At the winery we have engaged our civil
sub contractor, who is currently undertaking the cut to fill
process. Unfortunately, at Hutchins, we had commenced
our bulk earthworks, but have had to cease works while
we deal with some unexpected discoveries.
Centacare Letitia Street social housing is really motoring
along, with the aim to be completed by late May / early
June – significantly faster than the original program. The
sequencing of this project has been the key to its success
with the trades flowing from unit to unit. Plastering in the
final units is about to occur, with finishes trades to follow.
Sullivan’s Cove Distillery cellar door refurbishment at
Cambridge is progressing well, with completion targeted
for early June.
Glenson Place
Construction South
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 20

Thanks for the Memories
FAREWELL JOHN AND MICK
Commencing with Fairbrother as a carpenter in August
1997, John “Froggy” Ayres has been an integral member
of the Southern Construction team’s success for over 25
years.
Throughout this journey, Froggy has worked some of
our most iconic projects, including the Silos Apartments,
Institute for Marine and Antarctic Sciences (IMAS), the
UTAS student accommodation (NRAS) project, Murray
Street Pier, with his last project being the social housing at
Centacare Letitia Street.
Froggy is one of those blokes who everyone wants in their
team – a true gentlemen who went about his job with
minimal fuss. He was reliable (worked 18 years before
taking his first sick day); a mentor who loved looking after
our apprentices and took a real sense of pride in their
development, and finally his attention to detail and highquality
results.
He was always proud of his work, when he finished a
certain task, he would say “look at that, looks like it’s
grown there”.
We’re sure that retirement will bring more time for work
at home and in the garden, supporting Collingwood and a
game of golf.
Congratulations on your outstanding career Frog, we wish
you and Cathy every happiness in the future – stay in
touch!
Also retiring recently is Mick Ryan from our Central
Victorian Division after 23 years.
Mick commenced with Morey and Hurford in 2001, staying
on after Fairbrother acquired the company in 2008.
He has been a great asset to the company over the years,
working on a wide range of projects including the Choices
Flooring Showroom in Bendigo, McIvor Road Veterinary
Clinic, and Kyneton Secondary College.
Since 2019, Mick’s served as the Bendigo Yard Storeman,
and his consistent presence led to General Manager
Victoria, Mick Josey, describing him as “a part of the
furniture.”
Congratulations also to you, Mick, for your exceptional
career, and best wishes for the future – you’ll be sorely
missed!
Heath Lovell with Retiree John ‘Froggy’ Ayres
Chris Peter with Retiree Mick Ryan
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 21

Apprentice of the Year 2023
CAMERON DIREEN
Cameron commenced his apprenticeship with Fairbrother
in 2020, and across his journey, has demonstrated that
he is an excellent example of the traits and qualities
that Fairbrother looks to instil in our apprentices and
employees.
Demonstrating an ability to work well both in a team and
alone, Cameron has shown a willingness to take on and
apply himself to any task given to him without fuss.
Cameron’s work ethic, combined with his excellent can-do
attitude and willingness to go above and beyond has been
noted throughout his apprenticeship, with a number of
supervisors and managers making special efforts to praise
his ability, contributions, and the positive influence that he
has on site.
“Cam demonstrates a level of leadership beyond his
years,” said Kurt Arnold, Fairbrother’s Chief Executive
Officer when announcing Cameron as Apprentice of the
Year. “Recently he was working with one of our younger
apprentices and was able to recognise that this person
had the capability and skills, so guided them through a
series of questions to help them solve an issue from their
own knowledge rather than simply telling them how to do
it.”
Cameron’s leadership skills have seen him taking steps
to oversee different aspects of projects on recent jobs,
including components of the cantilevered structure on
the recent Bethlehem House project, and the ceilings and
soffit linings at Glenson Place.
A passion for learning and developing his trade has
followed Cameron throughout his apprenticeship, with
supervisors noting his pride in his work and representation
of Fairbrother at work and training.
“It’s been great to watch his growth over the past three or
four years,” said Matt Scrimgeour, Fairbrother’s Apprentice
Coordinator. “The attitude and professionalism with which
he goes about everything is an example to everyone.”
Congratulations Cameron on the award. We look forward
to continuing to see you grow as your career develops
further.
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 22

Employee of the Year 2023
JOSH ARNOLD
Commencing in 2009 with the Fairbrother Apprentice
Program, Josh Arnold has spent 15 years demonstrating
an exemplary attitude towards his work, his team, and the
Fairbrother name.
Having a great year in 2023, Josh found his stride in
leading and delivering the Sorell Emergency Services Hub
project before flowing straight into Brighton High School.
His work on the latter, alongside the team, has seen the
project progress smoothly and rapidly, pressing toward
early completion.
“His leadership qualities are as good as we’ve seen,” said
Kurt Arnold, Fairbrother’s Chief Executive Officer. “He’s
got a great understanding of culture, and how to create a
positive environment which is an excellent attribute that’s
been demonstrated across the jobs he’s worked on.”
Josh’s leadership skills have been impacted also by his
roles within the Tasmanian AFL system, taking on the
senior coaching role with the Glenorchy Magpies in 2023,
and continuing into the 2024 season ahead.
His coaching skills are evident in his work as well,
being motivated by the development of others, and
demonstrating a genuine ability to bring those around
him on the journey to successful project delivery. This is
evident not only with Fairbrother employees, but also his
ability to work with consultants and subcontractors.
“Josh’s quick progression into delivering our largest
current project in the South highlights his key strengths,”
said Paul Ransley, Fairbrother’s General Manager -
Southern Tasmania. “His unassuming demeanour, calm
temperament, adherence to compliance and quality, and
brilliant communication skills to all stakeholders are standout
qualities. He sets a great standard and benchmark for
our future leaders to aspire to.”
Congratulations, Josh, on being named Employee of
the Year for 2023, and thanks for your ongoing positive
attitude and contributions to the Fairbrother story!
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 23

Fairbrother Community
CONTRIBUTION
FAIRBROTHER
FOUNDATION DIRECTOR
GAYE RUTHERFORD
It’s the beginning of
a new year, and what
a start it has been
with the 6th annual
Fairbrother Ride
occurring in mid-
February and raising
over $100,000 for the
Foundation’s work
in the community.
The Foundation was
absolutely humbled and so appreciative of the support for
the ride this year – the photos and coverage on the next
page capture just some of the joy it was to be a part of the
ride experience.
van to provide food relief across the region.
It was great to hear from some of the beneficiaries about
the impact that support from the Foundation has had
in their organisations. If you haven’t yet seen them on
Fairbrother’s social media channels, look up our YouTube
page to hear from Speak Up, Stay ChatTY, The Smith
Family, Hobart City Mission and The Heart Foundation.
This time of the year is also when we again look to
our employees to reach out for nominations for the
Fairbrother Foundation Employee Charity program.
Each year the Foundation offers Fairbrother and Degree
C employees the opportunity to nominate charities to
receive a $2,500 donation. The program has been running
since 2016, and so far we’ve been able to support 46
different charities! You can see a selection of the most
recent charities we have supported on the Fairbrother
website’s Community Contribution page.
Since the last newsletter the Foundation has focussed
on ways we can increase our impact to our longstanding
charity partners. This has resulted in us donating $10,000
to Hobart City Mission’s DIY Dads Program, plus a new
donation of $15,000 to HCM’s Growing Together program.
$40,000 has been provided to Speak Up Stay ChatTY as
year two of our support for their Sports Program.
We have provided $19,250 to The Smith Family’s Digital
Learnings Essentials Program, which supported 25
Tasmanian students with the digital equipment and
resources needed to make the most of their education
and ensure they are not falling behind.
Finally, we have provided $20,000 to Gran’s Van, who work
alongside Action Against Homelessness on the Northwest
Coast. The donation will go toward a ‘mobile supermarket’
Rounding out the Foundation celebrations for this
quarter, we congratulate our three latest recipients of
Fairbrother Foundation Scholarships. Taylor Jones from St
Marys has been awarded the Royal Flying Doctor Service
(RFDS)-Fairbrother Foundation Scholarship and will get to
experience a unique placement at the RFDS as part of her
Bachelor of Nursing Studies. Bianca Russell (commencing
a Bachelor of Social Work) and Anisah Yates (commencing
a Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine),
daughters of long-standing Fairbrother employees Todd
Russell and Colin Yates, have each been awarded a
Fairbrother Foundation UTAS Scholarship. We wish all
three the very best for their studies ahead.
It is with great pleasure the Foundation can announce that
in 2024 we are supporting a new scholarship. Opening
in May this year, applicants to Deakin University will
also be eligible to apply for the Fairbrother Foundation
Construction Management Scholarship. This scholarship is
designed to support a tertiary education-based pathway
into the construction industry. We are very pleased to
offer this Victorian-based scholarship, focused on our
construction industry.
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 24

Employee Charity
Program
Is there a charity in your community that you would like to support?
The Fairbrother Foundation Employee Charity Program has been in operation
since 2016, allowing Fairbrother and Degree C Employees to nominate
eligible local charities to recieve a $2,500 donation.
Nominated charities must be registered with the
Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission as a
Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR).
Nominated charities must also be Australia-based, and
conduct activities in Australia.
To nominate a charity:
Email your nomination to the Foundation Chaire, Gaye
Rutherford: grutherford@fairbrother.com.au.
Your nomination must include the name of the charity,
and the reason you would like to nominate them.
By nominating a charity, you agree to have details of your
nomination mentioned in announcements made by the
Fairbrother Foundation, including on the Fairbrother
website’s ‘Community Contribution’ page and in a future
issue of What’s Building.
How do I know if my charity is
registered as a DGR?
Visit the ACNC Website and search for your charity, and
then click the ‘Will my donation be tax deductible?’ button
(circled in the image above).
On the page you are taken to, under the heading
“Deductible Gift Recipient Status” it will tell you if your
charity is endorsed, which means it can be nominated.
For fairness purposes, if the number of eligible nominations exceeds the funds available (6 donations
of $2,500 each), a random draw will take place to determine the charities to be supported in 2024.
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 25

What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 26

Another Successful Adventure
FAIRBROTHER RIDE 2024
On February 16th a number of our Fairbrother employees,
subcontractors, clients and consultants joined together
to embark on a 350 km, two-day cycling challenge in
Northwest Tasmania. Starting at our Head Office in
Devonport, the group rode through the rugged west coast
of Tasmania to the township of Tullah where they were
greeted with fantastic hospitality from the Tullah Lakeside
Lodge. Day two then saw the group ride from Tullah,
through the rolling hills and farmland towards Gunns
Plains before finishing back in Devonport after covering
some 6,000 vertical meters of climbing over the journey.
They were treated to some fantastic weather, and we are
of course grateful that all participants made through the
event without incident.
The purpose of this challenge is to act on our guiding
principle of promoting health and wellbeing along with
strengthening our business connections and relationships.
In doing so, we aim to create a platform where donations
can be made to support the Fairbrother Foundation’s
activities.
This event has generated an amazing level of support
with an overall fundraising tally which has surpassed
our $100,000 target to land at an incredible $108,275!
The Fairbrother Foundation is extremely grateful for all
donations, the kind and giving nature in our community is
something we can all be proud of.
This was our 6th annual event and has now accumulated a
combined total of over $448,000 in donations supporting
the Fairbrother Foundation’s charitable activities. These
funds allow the Foundation to continue to build on its
important community work, as well as its key partnerships
with Hobart City Mission, SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY, The
Heart Foundation, New Horizons, Royal Flying Doctor
Service, Action Against Homelessness (aah), The Smith
Family and the UTAS Foundation.
Since the Fairbrother Foundation’s establishment in 2007,
we have now contributed more than $854,000 to worthy
charitable causes that has helped enrich the lives of many
people among the communities in which we serve.
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 27

Summer Fun Runs
HEALTH AND WELLBEING
Summer’s come to an end and with it, fun run season.
Congratulations to everyone who participated in events
across the summer – Warrnambool’s Surf ‘T’ Surf, Hobart’s
Run the Bridge, Bendigo’s Ford Fun Run, Devonport’s Bluff
2 Boat Ramp, and our newest addition to the Fairbrother
Fun Run Calendar, Melbourne’s Run 4 Kids.
The winter doesn’t cancel everything out, though. The
Launceston Running Festival is on June 1-2, and features
events for everyone, from the 21.1km half marathon
down to a 1-mile event. There’s even a virtual race for
those who maybe can’t make it in person!
A reminder, too, that Fairbrother employees and their
families are eligible for free entry to participate at these
events in person. You will also receive a Fairbrother t-shirt
and water bottle to support you on the day as well.
Email Rachel (rclemens@fairbrother.com.au) for more
details.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW MORE FAIRBROTHER PROJECTS
What’s Building, Issue 109 APRIL 2024
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: AUGUST 2024
Connect with Us!
What’s Building APRIL 2024 | Page 28