In recognising the carbon sequestration benefits of timber, the recently opened National Throws Centre of Excellence in Brisbane serves as a proven test case for the economical delivery of timber infrastructure to achieve climate positive Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2032. Source: Timberbiz, photos Angus Martin Photography
The GLT structure began life in HQP’s Queensland pine plantation before being sawn at the Hyne Timber’s Tuan Mill near Maryborough and further manufactured into GLT at their Glulam plant in Maryborough.
It was designed by Brisbane based Architecture firm, Phillips Smith Conwell, built by Hutchinson Builders with project consultants including Brisbane-based Bligh Tanner.
“We have a commitment to the global community about having a carbon neutral games,” Stirling Hinchliffe, Minister for Tourism, Innovation and Sport said.
“You can do high quality, beautiful buildings in a way that also delivers on a sustainability outcome.
“This didn’t happen purely as inspiration. It was collaboration,” he said.
Stadiums Queensland, who managed the design and construction project, required a zero-carbon building while controlling the cost of the project.
A team of expert stakeholders were able to deliver on this vision with the pavilion the only known facility of its type in the southern hemisphere, and only one of several worldwide.
“From carbon sequestration to locally grown and manufactured timber, mass timber solutions for Athletes Villages, stadiums, and other Olympic infrastructure are the perfect solution to deliver a carbon positive games with a lasting legacy,” Shane Robertson, General Manager of Xlam said.
“Timber needs to be specified from the onset followed by the engagement of experts in the field.
“You can’t design a building in concrete and steel then attempt to convert it to timber and still gain the many benefits including design and cost efficiencies which largely come from the pre-fabrication, lighter weight material and speed of construction.
“XLam is highly experienced in large, social housing projects for example, which could be the legacy from Athletes Villages designed with this post games vision.”
Watch the project video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cTEOr1tI400
