Ensuring Air Tightness & Air Quality, in complex Multi-functional Timber Buildings

CETEC ensures educational buildings meet sustainability and wellbeing goals through expert air-tightness and indoor air quality testing.

CETEC

As sustainability and occupant wellbeing become central to modern educational design, verifying that design intent translates into real-world performance has never been more critical.

CETEC partnered with Hansen Yuncken at the University of Newcastle Gosford Central Campus, delivering specialist airtightness and indoor air quality (IAQ) services to ensure the new timber building performs exactly as intended, efficiently, safely, and with consistently healthy internal environments.

Principal Consultant Adam Garnys explained that CETEC’s scope focused on two essential areas: airtightness testing to support Green Star Certification, and exposure to toxins, VOC and formaldehyde testing to underpin indoor air quality.

Ensuring air-tightness & air quality in complex multi-functional timber Buildings - CETEX at University of Newcastle Gosford Central completing testing,
Ensuring air-tightness & air quality in complex multi-functional timber Buildings - CETEX at University of Newcastle Gosford Central completing testing,
Ensuring air-tightness & air quality in complex multi-functional timber Buildings - CETEX at University of Newcastle Gosford Central completing testing,

The building’s striking architectural form, featuring a curved envelope and extensive engineered timber, presented unique technical challenges. “Timber buildings can be more complex from an airtightness perspective,” Adam noted. “There is material constraint with bespoke structural elements around airtightness, so it really comes down to collaborating with the team from the design stage.”

CETEC’s early engagement proved pivotal. During design review, they provided targeted technical guidance on services penetrations, junction detailing, and air barrier continuity, areas that are the highest-risk points for air permeability and moisture transfer in timber buildings. Periodic site inspections ensured these strategies translated in built reality.

“The Hansen Yuncken team had a growth mindset,” Adam added. “They were curious and proactive in seeking advice. That level of collaboration really enabled strong performance outcomes.”

CETEC’s national capability further strengthened delivery. “We operate across all major cities with specialist equipment and experience,” Adam said. “And with our long history in air tightness and air quality leadership, including contributing to the development of Green Star’s IEQ requirements, we’re able to bring both technical depth and strategic insight to projects like this.”

For more information contact Cetec, www.cetec.com.au nationwide

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Designing Interiors for Functionaland Sustainable education Campuses

Pluim Joinery delivered sustainable, precision-crafted timber interiors at Gosford Central, enhancing functionality, wellbeing, and learning.

Pluim Joinery

The University of Newcastle’s Gosford Central Campus is defined not only by its sustainable credentials and architectural distinction, but by the quality of its internal environments.

Pluim Joinery delivered precision-crafted internal joinery that enhances the functionality, aesthetics, and wellbeing of the campus. Pluim Joinery were responsible for the manufacture and installation of all internal joinery across the entire campus, including the reception counter, café, banquette seating, timber-clad columns, kitchens and retail areas.

“From the first point of contact at reception right through to the café, teaching support spaces and retail areas, our joinery helps define & shape how people move through and experience the building,” explained Pluim Joinery’s Director, Andrew Sohier.

Joinery at the University of Newcastle Gosford Central.
Bleachers at the University of Newcastle Gosford Central
intergrated benches by Pluim Joinery at the University of Newcastle Gosford Central.
Lockers at the university of Newcastle Gosford Central by Pluim Joinery.
joinery in lab spaces by Pluim Joinery at University of Newcastle Gosford Central.

Whilst the project presented no major construction challenges for the Pluim Joinery team, the success of the works relied heavily on precise manufacture & delivery coupled with close co-ordination with all Construction partners on-site along with strict compliance to the sustainability aspects of the fit-out & materials used. To achieve this result Pluim Joinery worked closely with the main contractor, design consultants and university stakeholders to ensure all products met the required Green Star targets.

Beyond performance and compliance, the joinery contributes directly to the comfort and wellbeing of students, staff and visitors. The warmth of timber finishes, carefully detailed seating and custom built elements introduce a tactile and welcoming quality that contrasts beautifully with the campus’s bold structural form.

“The high level of craftsmanship displayed in the joinery work adds to the overall ambience of the campus,” Andrew explained. “We’re proud to have delivered joinery that doesn’t just perform technically, but genuinely enhances the way people feel & interact in the space.”

Through careful attention to detail, sustainable material selection, and close coordination with the contractor and design team, Pluim Joinery delivered interiors that meet Green Star requirements which in-turn support and assist the wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors. Their work provides a demonstration of how precise, well-coordinated & placed joinery can integrate with educational environments to provide functional, durable, and contextually appropriate interiors.

For more information contact Pluim Joinery, Unit 3/900 Pacific Highway, Lisarow NSW 2250, phone 02 4328 0500, email info@pluimjoinery.com.au, website www.pluimjoinery.com.au

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Fire Safety Solutions for ComplexMulti-Functional Campus Environments

M-Fire delivered integrated, compliant fire and EWIS systems at Gosford Central, ensuring safety, resilience, and seamless operation.

M-Fire

M-Fire delivered a fully integrated, compliant, and architecturally sensitive fire protection system at the Gosford Central, combining technical expertise, seamless coordination, and reliable commissioning to safeguard people, assets, and operations across a high-use, multi-functional education environment.

M-Fire’s scope included the supply and installation of a Vigilant MX1 Fire Detection and Alarm System (FDAS) and a Vigilant QE90 Emergency Warning and Intercommunication System (EWIS).

“We also integrated the systems with smoke exhaust fans, louvres, security, BMS and AV trips, and even boom gate controls,” explained Managing Director, Michael Matthews. “All interfaces were successfully achieved through close co-ordination with other trades both in the office and on site.”

M-Fire delivered integrated, compliant fire and EWIS systems at Gosford Central, ensuring safety, resilience, and seamless operation.
M-Fire delivered integrated, compliant fire and EWIS systems at Gosford Central, ensuring safety, resilience, and seamless operation.

The project presented several technical challenges, particularly when working around decorative compressed timber ceilings. “We had to design and fabricate custom brackets to lower equipment in some areas to maintain compliance,” said Michael. “It was about finding practical solutions that complemented the architectural vision.”

Further complexity came from networking the system back to the main Newcastle campus for remote monitoring. “That required collaboration with the University’s network and fire infrastructure teams, all relationships we’ve built over many years.”

M-Fire’s commitment to quality and safety guided every stage of delivery. “Our experienced lead hand was pivotal to achieving the high standard of workmanship expected. Even with supply delays on the custom-built fire and EWIS panels, our team worked tirelessly to install, program, and commission everything within two weeks of delivery.”

“We take pride in delivering high-level, complex systems that protect people and assets. The Central Coast Campus is a project we’re honoured to have helped make safer for generations of students to come,” reflected Michael.

For more information contact M-Fire Pty Ltd, 36 Rural Drive, Sandgate NSW 2304, phone 02 4011 5907, email enquiries@m-fire.com.au, website www.m-fire.com.au

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Translating Design Intent into Functional Stainless-Steel Systems

Alpha Custom Stainless Steel delivered locally fabricated, compliant stainless-steel infrastructure supporting durable, high-performance university environments..

Alpha Custom Stainless Steel

Alpha Custom Stainless Steel delivers end-to-end stainless-steel solutions that combine precision fabrication, compliance and design integrity. Drawing on more than 50 years of industry experience, Alpha’s locally fabricated, fully integrated approach ensures joinery, commercial kitchens and hospitality fit-outs are delivered on time, on budget and in alignment with each project’s operational, regulatory and architectural requirements.

“We pride ourselves on being involved from the design stage right through to installation,” Senior Project Manager Elliot Hammond said. “That gives clients confidence that what’s drawn can actually be built, and built properly.”

Alpha balances precision stainless-steel fabrication with user-focused design. The company’s experience in creating commercial kitchens, benching, extraction systems, and integrated equipment are engineered for durability, compliance, and efficiency while providing a pleasing and visually refined profile.

Alpha Custom Stainless Steel
Alpha Custom Stainless Steel
Central Coast Leagues Club cafe installation by Alpha Custom Stainless Steel
Central Coast Leagues Club bar installation by Alpha Custom Stainless Steel
commercial kitchen installation at Anglicare CPK by Alpha Custom Stainless Steel
Alpha Custom Stainless Steel
University of Newcastle Gosford Central cafe by Alpha Custom Stainless Steel

“Education environments demand robustness, compliance and efficiency, but they also need to feel welcoming and work intuitively for staff and students,” explained Elliot. Alpha’s experience at Gosford Central draws on a broader body of work delivering stainless-steel infrastructure for complex, high-use environments.

Delivering complex food and beverage infrastructure at scale for the Archibald/Voco Hotel in Gosford, with ALAND, required Alpha to complete a $3.1 million design and construct package including in-house fabricated stainless-steel components, Filter Stream extraction hoods, commercial kitchens, refrigeration systems and cool rooms across multiple venues including the Level 28 Astra Skybar.

The refurbishment of Dooleys Catholic Club, delivered with Buildcorp, saw Alpha deliver a $4.5 million multi-level hospitality fit-out incorporating 16 bars, kitchens and dining outlets, featuring custom stainless-steel fabrication, extraction systems and commercial kitchen equipment.

“Everything is fabricated locally within our own factories. That gives us full control over quality, timing and performance, and it allows us to respond quickly when projects evolve,” Elliot explained.”

Alpha Custom Stainless Steel logo

For more information contact Alpha Custom Stainless Steel, 1300 362 596, email sales@alphace.com.au, website www.alphace.com.au

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Lifting Performance That Keeps Complex Projects Moving

Allied Construction delivered coordinated crane services, enabling safe, efficient lifting operations within a constrained university campus site.

Allied Construcion (Allied Crane Hire)

As the University of Newcastle’s Central Coast Campus continues to expand its footprint and capabilities, Allied Construction (Allied Crane Hire) has been a driving force behind the scenes, elevating the project with precision, communication and an uncompromising commitment to safety.

“Our scope was to supply cranes, riggers and dogmen,” Business Development Manager Brian Trevethan said.

Tight access, evolving staging, and the complex movement of materials required a lifting partner capable not only of supplying equipment, but of integrating seamlessly with the project’s operational rhythm. “We worked closely with site representatives and supervisors to keep everything moving smoothly,” Brain explained.

Allied Construction (Allied Crane Hire)
Allied Construction (Allied Crane Hire)
Allied Construction (Allied Crane Hire)
Allied Construction (Allied Crane Hire)
Allied Construction (Allied Crane Hire)
University of Newcastle Gosford Central.

This collaborative approach extended through every phase of the build. Allied coordinated directly with the main contractor and all interfacing trades. “We scheduled works, communicated lift plans, and barricaded areas and drop zones with information tags attached,” Brain said. This disciplined, transparent method enabled the project team to maintain momentum while upholding the highest safety standards.

The result was a partnership defined by reliability. Their capability in handling diverse load sizes, their responsiveness to shifting site needs, and their proactive communication added measurable value to the project’s progression.

For Allied, the legacy of the Gosford Central build lies not just in lifts completed but in relationships strengthened. Their work reinforced what the industry already knows: when precision, planning and professionalism come together, the entire project rises.

For more information contact Allied Construction (Allied Crane Hire), 808 Tomago Road, Tomago NSW 2322, phone
0437 609 486, email slantry@alliedcranehire.com.au, website www.alliedcranehirenewcastle.com.au

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