MONASH UNIVERSITY’S CAULFIELD CAMPUS

In May 2017, Ace Landscape Services was awarded works in excess of $10 Million to revitalise Monash University’s Caulfield Campus. The contracted works were the implementation of the Taylor Cullity Lethlean masterplan to modernise the campus, linking all the building with a high-quality pedestrian-friendly space. The scope of works was extensive and centred around transforming the existing Queens Avenue – the road running through the centre of the campus – to a major pedestrian thoroughfare, linking the adjoining buildings with the adjoining green and recreational spaces.

Works consisted of the following major elements:

• Demolition
• Installation of a new fire ring main
• Gas main
• Electrical and communication conduits
• Directional bore under existing building
• Timber decking and screw piles
• 60mm thick granite paving
• Building façade works to Mama Dukes’ courtyard, including structural steel, expended metal cladding and structural glass canopies
• Precast and in situ concrete seating
• Irrigation works
• Street furniture
• Lighting
• Planting

The project was very challenging and technically demanding. While the final product on the surface is very impressive, the hidden work beach is where the real work lies. With over 100 years of services within the ground and very limited information, all excavation proved challenging.

Ace utilised non-destructive excavation techniques to facilitate the works and, as a credit to their staff, no services were hit during the course of the works. All this was achieved while working on fully operational university campus, maintaining all access and services to each building as well as minimising noise and dust.   

The project was successfully completed on time and budget and to the satisfaction of the client.