Our team is no stranger to large, challenging projects. As a matter of fact, we thrive on them. That is why when we signed on to work with ABA Construction Management for a reconstruction project for Nicholls School, we all put our game faces on. This project was a very special one as it involved several key stakeholders, including the ACT Government. It consisted of a massive reconstruction of two FIFA-certified fields which incorporated a running track around the perimeter of one of the fields. A tremendous feat to say the least. Especially considering we had to do it all under the intense heat of the warm Canberra Summer. Thankfully, our team dug in their heels and overcame every challenge to deliver a high-quality facility that continues to shine in Australia’s Capital.
The project began in late November 2018 and was completed in March 2019. ABA Construction Management took over project management on behalf of the ACT Government, while Tuff Group was involved in the uplift, disposal and re-purpose of the existing surfaces, the rectification work required on a free draining aggregate base and the supply and installation of the two fields. For this project, we installed our VMAX50 system with a shock pad and sand/SBR infills. This resulted in a highly durable and visually striking surface that both looks and plays exactly like an elite playing field.
All in all, the project ran smoothly, but it was not free of difficulties. We had a tight timeline and access to the site was a big challenge. Especially when one considers the number of materials that had to be taken out of the old field, and the new materials that had to go in for its reconstruction. This slowed things down considerably. However, thanks to the help of ABA Construction Management who built a site-specific track which involved 300 metres of temporary fencing through a community cricket field, we were able to overcome any major issues.
At one point, we even had most of our senior team on-site at one time to ensure the project is delivered as promised. This included Travis Knight our Commercial Operations Manager, Gavin Longworth National Construction Manager, Matthew Wood and John Raymond our leaders of installation and the ever-reliable Garth Andrews our Maintenance Manager. The team went all in to ensure this project met the Tuff Group standard and it shows in the end result.
The ACT Government and ABA Construction Management were both ecstatic with the new facility. Not to mention, Nicholls school who gets to use it on a regular basis during school days. It was also a big win for the local community who have access to the facility to host events, soccer games and the various runners who get to use the track. In the end, it was a project that our team will always be proud of.
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