Posts

Building Performance Through Communications Infrastructure

ILEC delivered large-scale communications infrastructure, supporting reliable digital performance across UTAS’s complex Forest redevelopment.

ILEC

As universities invest in digitally enabled learning environments, communications infrastructure has become a critical layer of building performance rather than a background service. On the University of Tasmania’s The Forest redevelopment, ILEC Pty Ltd delivered large-scale structured cabling and fibre optic systems that demanded precision, coordination, and long-term reliability across a complex, highly visible campus environment.

Over a two-and-a-half-year delivery period, the Tasmanian-based electrical and communications specialist was responsible for designing and installing the project’s communications infrastructure.

“We handled all the communications infrastructure, including the structured cabling and fibre optic cabling on the project,” said James Rand, Project Manager at ILEC. “It was one of the larger projects we’ve been involved in, with around 2,400 data outlets and significant fibre infrastructure between the multiple communications rooms.”

The project’s scale and visibility made the installation particularly challenging. “There is over 100km of Cat6A cables installed throughout the building,” James explained. “A lot of it’s on display, so it all had to look good, which meant a lot of planning and attention to detail.”

Working within a live construction site, co-ordination with multiple trades was essential. “There were so many parties involved; AV, electrical, and other services,” James said. “Some of the AV packages required early handover of our cabling, so timing and sequencing were key. It was a real team effort to make sure everyone had what they needed, when they needed it.”

For James, the standout achievement was the quality of the final result. “I’m really proud of how well the team performed and how the finish came together,” he reflected. “A lot of work went into the early documentation to make sure every cable had its place, and it shows in the result.”

ILEC worked hand-in-hand with FIP Electrical Tasmania and the builders Hansen Yuncken, maintaining close collaboration from start to finish. “It’s been a long project but a great experience,” James concluded. “Everyone’s worked together really well, and we’re proud to have helped deliver something of this scale and quality for UTAS.”

For more information contact ILEC Pty Ltd, Unit 6, 2 Kennedy Drive, Cambridge TAS 7170, phone 03 6248 4255, website www.ilec.net.au

/by

Advanced Electrical Systems and Smart Building Integration

Crossmuller delivered advanced, sustainable and smart building electrical and automation systems, to power Gosford Library.

Crossmuller

As Gosford CBD continues its transformation into a cultural and civic destination, Crossmuller has played a critical role in delivering the advanced electrical and automation systems that will power the newly constructed Gosford Regional Library—a landmark civic development by the Central Coast Council.

Based just up the road in Somersby, Crossmuller brought both technical expertise and community pride to the project. Their electrical team, led by Electrical Manager Luke Fletcher, was entrusted with a
wide-ranging scope of work to ensure the library meets the highest standards in functionality, sustainability, and accessibility.

“We carried out the power and distribution board install, lighting and emergency lighting, and the Dynalite smart lighting system,” Luke explained. “We also installed a Power Factor Correction unit, PV solar system, fibre and CAT 6A communications, security and access control—including the Council’s ‘Bookable’ system—CCTV cameras, and automated louvre windows and blinds.”

This comprehensive electrical package not only provides reliable infrastructure but also supports the library’s smart building ambitions. Integration of automated systems and dynamic lighting controls were crucial to meet the council’s requirements for energy efficiency and user experience.

Although the project was designed by electrical engineers at Northrop, Crossmuller was responsible for bringing the plans to life onsite, which often required creativity and on-the-spot problem-solving.

“A lot of items were drawn by the architect, but we had to use our knowledge and experience to make it work,” Luke said.
“We regularly liaised with other contractors during site meetings to co-ordinate systems and resolve conflicts.”

One significant challenge involved the main switchboard installation, where space constraints within the electrical room clashed with regulatory requirements.

“The switchboard was too large to achieve the clearances required by electrical standards,” Luke recalled. “So, we worked with the team to modify the construction of the board and cupboard. In the end, we created a solution that is both compliant and practical.”

Crossmuller’s focus on user experience was especially evident in their approach to accessibility and building functionality.

“With the Dynalite lighting system, we could program light behaviour exactly to the brief we received from Council,” Luke noted. “For accessibility, we ensured switches, power points, and swipe card readers were installed at accessible heights so everyone can use the library facilities comfortably.”

The solar power system and Power Factor Correction unit further align the project with environmental best practices, reducing energy consumption and improving electrical efficiency. Combined with smart lighting and automation, the result is a future-ready building that reflects the evolving needs of the Gosford community.

For Crossmuller, the opportunity to contribute to such a high-profile civic project in their own backyard was especially meaningful.

“It’s been great for us as a company to work on such a major development—especially one with close ties to the local community,” Luke shared. “Many of our staff live nearby, and they’ll get to use the library with their families. It’s nice to be able to say, ‘We helped build that.’”

The Gosford Library project is just one example of how Crossmuller blends technical excellence in electrical and automation systems with community-minded values. With a reputation for delivering complex industrial, commercial, and civic projects, the company continues to shape the future of the Central Coast—one innovation at a time.

Looking ahead, Crossmuller sees this project as a significant contribution to the region and catalyst for further public sector partnerships, particularly those prioritising sustainability, user-centric technology, and long-term community impact.

For more information contact Crossmuller, phone 1300 300 540, email sales@crossmuller.com.au, website www.crossmuller.com.au

/by