Bundha Sports Centre

Built Environs, a leader in innovative and sustainable construction, has proudly completed the Bundha Sports Centre.

Located on the former Fitzroy Gasworks site and adjacent to the Wurun Senior Campus, the centre stands as a beacon of community-focused design and sustainability. Constructed as a partnership between the Victorian government and City of Yarra and overseen by Development Victoria, the all-electric, multi-level facility has been designed to achieve a 5 Star Green Star rating.

The state-of-the-art complex includes a ground floor reception and café, a mezzanine-level gym, multiple levels of mixed-use courts, and multipurpose spaces. “This project demonstrates our capability to manage complex, multi-use developments in dense urban environments, while maintaining safety, quality, and community integration,” said Kirra Tickell, Construction Manager.

Key construction challenges included managing large floor-to-floor spans, environmental contamination from the former gasworks site, and a complex façade design. After extensive investigation, the team selected an in-situ concrete system with post-tensioned slabs and beams for its cost-efficiency and structural integrity. Over 12 months were spent refining the façade design to meet the architect’s vision.

Environmental management was a major priority. Unexpected soil contamination led to ongoing testing and air monitoring, with collaboration from an occupational hygienist. Built Environs coordinated closely with the adjacent Wurun Senior Campus, constructing within the school’s soccer pitch and integrating into its service infrastructure. Fortnightly school interface meetings ensured alignment on all construction activities and safety measures.

“Our team maintained a strong focus on safety, logging over 226,000 working hours with zero Lost Time Injuries,” said Kirra. Built Environs used Hammertech and Visbuild systems, held daily pre-starts, weekly toolbox talks, and facilitated over 2,800 safety observations during construction. “Maintaining a culture of safety and proactive communication across site teams and subcontractors was key to delivering the project smoothly.”

In line with the Green Star goals, the project used renewable energy sources, improved indoor air quality, captured rainwater for reuse, and met rigorous air tightness standards. Amenities on an adjacent government-owned parcel were supported by a rainwater reuse system, minimising energy consumption. These initiatives are currently being documented for formal Green Star accreditation with the Green Building Council of Australia.

Social sustainability was equally prioritised. In line with the ‘Culture in Construction’ recommendations, Built Environs implemented initiatives around diversity, wellbeing, and mental health.

“We had strong female representation in key project roles and partnered with Incolink to deliver toolbox talks on health and wellbeing,” Kirra added. “We also took a flexible approach to rostering, supporting work-life balance through planned Saturday works and wellbeing check-ins.”

Accessibility and inclusion were embedded in the project’s DNA.
Built Environs worked with accessibility consultant Architecture & Access and design partner CO.OP Studio to ensure equitable access across the centre. Design considerations included accessible amenities, intuitive venue circulation, and compliant lift and stair access. Fortnightly stakeholder meetings guided design decisions, ensuring the facility was welcoming and usable for everyone in the community.

In addition to its technical and design success, the project made a positive social and economic impact by engaging local contractors and suppliers through a targeted social procurement plan. Built Environs also developed strong collaborative relationships with project stakeholders and consultants.

Reflecting on the project, Kirra said, “What stands out most is the team cohesion and the relationship we built with Development Victoria. Our honest, collaborative approach helped build trust across all stakeholders. That’s something we carry forward into every community project we deliver.”

The Bundha Sports Centre sets a new benchmark in sustainable, inclusive, and community-driven infrastructure, showcasing Built Environs’ ability to deliver complex, high-quality developments that meet the needs of growing urban populations while enhancing social, environmental, and economic outcomes for years to come.

For more information contact Built Environs, Level 10, 480 Swan Street, Richmond VIC 3121, phone 08 8232 1882, email builtenvirons@builtenvirons.com.au, website www.builtenvirons.com.au