Mount Gambier High School Redevelopment
Client:
Grieve Gillet Architects
Location:
Mount Gambier, SA
Project value: $6m
Helping transform Mount Gambier High School into a safer and more contemporary learning environment.
With a strong understanding of educational environments, Tonkin contributed to a redevelopment that will deliver lasting value to Mount Gambier High School's community for years to come.
What we did
Tonkin was engaged to provide civil and structural engineering design services for the redevelopment of Mount Gambier High School as part of the State's Capital Works Program.
The redevelopment transformed key areas of the campus, delivering modern, flexible and future-focused learning facilities. Works included asbestos removal, demolition of six ageing transportable buildings and associated shelters, construction of approximately 840m² of new general learning areas, and a 200m² covered outdoor learning area supporting contemporary teaching and collaboration.
Existing facilities were also significantly upgraded, including the refurbishment of approximately
615m² of science learning spaces with modernised laboratories, new joinery finishes, and façade improvements. The project also included the enhancement of a dedicated wellbeing and withdrawal space, along with a new student hub supporting inclusion and engagement.
The redevelopment transformed key areas of the campus, delivering modern, flexible and future-focused learning facilities. Works included asbestos removal, demolition of six ageing transportable buildings and associated shelters, construction of approximately 840m² of new general learning areas, and a 200m² covered outdoor learning area supporting contemporary teaching and collaboration.
Existing facilities were also significantly upgraded, including the refurbishment of approximately
615m² of science learning spaces with modernised laboratories, new joinery finishes, and façade improvements. The project also included the enhancement of a dedicated wellbeing and withdrawal space, along with a new student hub supporting inclusion and engagement.
How we made a difference
Tonkin helped transform Mount Gambier High School into a safer and more contemporary learning environment. By supporting the creation of more than 1,000m² of new and educational facilities, the project has enhanced the school's capacity to deliver modern teaching and learning experiences.
Our designs facilitated the renewal of ageing infrastructure, improved campus safety and supported the delivery of flexible learning environments that cater to diverse educational and wellbeing needs.
Our designs facilitated the renewal of ageing infrastructure, improved campus safety and supported the delivery of flexible learning environments that cater to diverse educational and wellbeing needs.
Problems which arose and resolution achieved
The site presented variable ground conditions, creating potential challenges for the design and construction of new building foundations. Tonkin utilised targeted site investigations to better understand these conditions and develop practical footing solutions that reduced construction risk and avoided unnecessary overdesign.
Tonkin's local presence also enabled responsive site inspections and timely resolution of construction queries, helping minimise delays and maintain design intent throughout delivery.
Tonkin's local presence also enabled responsive site inspections and timely resolution of construction queries, helping minimise delays and maintain design intent throughout delivery.
Scope of works
Tonkin's structural engineering services included the design of footing systems, on-ground floor slabs, and the vertical and lateral load-resisting elements for new buildings. The scope also encompassed the design of external stairs and ramps, structural steelwork associated with entrance awnings and canopies, and structural modifications required within existing classroom buildings as part of the refurbishment works.
Civil engineering services focused on the design of stormwater and drainage infrastructure associated with the new developments, pathway pavement design, and the rehabilitation of the areas affected by demolition activities.
To inform the design process, Tonkin undertook a geotechnical investigation comprising boreholes across the proposed development areas. The investigation included soil logging and classification in accordance with AS 2870, together with foundation, footing and pavement recommendations based on site-specific ground conditions.
Civil engineering services focused on the design of stormwater and drainage infrastructure associated with the new developments, pathway pavement design, and the rehabilitation of the areas affected by demolition activities.
To inform the design process, Tonkin undertook a geotechnical investigation comprising boreholes across the proposed development areas. The investigation included soil logging and classification in accordance with AS 2870, together with foundation, footing and pavement recommendations based on site-specific ground conditions.
Innovations and value for money
By balancing the refurbishment of existing assets with targeted new infrastructure, the project maximised the return on investment while reducing waste and minimising the whole-of-life costs. The retention and renewal of key facilities also reduced embodied carbon and material consumption, supporting a future-ready learning environment.
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