The challenge of a vertical extension onto Level 8’s pre-existing concrete slab terrace, was its inability to support an additional load from a traditional steel and concrete structure.

To overcome the weight challenge, a steel grillage was used to transfer the lightweight CLT structure directly onto the columns below. The high load floor in the free-standing function pavilion uses a 175mm thick 5-layer XLAM CLT panel. While all remaining floors consist of 5-layer 145mm panels, with all roof panels using 5-layer 130mm panels. Over 10m high, full height panels were used for the three-story stair walls, with these being erected prior to lowering in the landings and XLAM AirStairs.

Large glue laminated (GLT) beams that span the 11m over the function pavilion and carry the load of the raking XLAM roof, were constructed from Tasmanian Oak hardwood and were manufactured and supplied by Hyne Timber.

In total, over 150 CLT panels, constructed from untreated radiata pine boards, were used throughout this project to add the free-standing function pavilion, two interconnecting stair wells and new education facilities to the existing building.

The decision to use 100% chain of custody certified Australian timber was intrinsically tied to the company’s values, which focused on supporting local production and sustainable practices. This choice aligned perfectly with the community of Maryborough, where timber is a vital source of employment.

The selection of engineered timber was driven by multiple factors, including sustainability with sequestered carbon, construction efficiency in terms of speed and cost, local sourcing for regional job creation, and the material’s lighter weight, which minimised foundation work on the existing site.

The aesthetic aspect of engineered timber was not overlooked, as selected areas of XLAM CLT and Hyne GLT were sanded and sealed post-installation to allow their natural and sustainable beauty to be exposed. This contributed to the warm and natural appearance of the building, enhancing occupant well-being while also aligning with the project’s commitment to sustainability and visual integrity.

Icon Fairbrother worked with Lyons Architects and Arup Engineering to design and build the multi-use development. The project team collaborated with the Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation to include Indigenous design elements and language in the architecture, landscaping, and spaces.

Featuring Victoria’s largest timber frame, the 4-storey mass timber building consists of a glass façade, XLAM CLT floors and GLT post and beams. The mass timber structure is built on a concrete slab with pre-cast lift-cores. Timber forms the columns, posts, beams, floors, and the frame for the glass façade which is in the shape of the Dja Dja Wurrung shield.

The project design called for exposed timbers with a FRL of 90mins and required additional lateral bracing at perimeters with GLT. Head contractor Icon Fairbrother completed Bendigo GovHub for a handover and opening early 2023.

At 9,000m² GFA, across 4 storeys, Bendigo GovHub demonstrates the structural capability of mass-timber. XLAM manufactured and supplied all the CLT in the building. XLAM undertook the design development of the mass timber components including detailed connection design and preparation of BIM 3D model to LOD400. Arup provided design certification and XLAM provided fire testing.

Importantly, XLAM used our mass timber and DfMA expertise to rationalise the CLT connection design in collaboration with Arup, the project engineer. XLAM and Arup reduced the requirement for expensive proprietary fixings offering significant cost savings to the project.

TWurriki Nyal utilises a hybrid structural system combining mass timber with concrete and steel. The use of XLAM CLT and Hess GLT was based on a decision to ensure the building was both innovative and sustainable. The use of CLT and GLT with a glass façade helped create a light-filled healthy and contemporary workplace.

Cox Architecture utilised XLAM CLT as a renewable material that provides advantages over traditional construction including; environmental benefits, off-site manufacturing, speed of construction, weight, and design innovation.

As a 6-storey building with 9,000m² GIFA, Wurriki Nyal demonstrates the potential of hybrid construction embracing the use of mass timber. Construction started mid 2020 and the building opened September 2022.