Etihad Stadium

Fast Facts 

• SEMF designed and constructed Etihad Stadium’s iconic moving roof system in partnership with Baulderstone Hornibrook.
• The moving roof system incorporated roof panels with individual weights of 1200 tonnes.
• The roof’s state-of-the-art linear control system is the first of its kind in Australia.

Etihad Stadium (formerly Telstradome) is one of Australia’s premier sporting venues. Located in Melbourne’s Docklands, the multipurpose facility is home to some of the country’s largest sporting and entertainment events and has attracted more than 25 million visitors since opening doors in March 2000.The stadium also owes its iconic status to its distinctive retractable roof – the only one of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere.

SEMF was engaged by Baulderstone Hornibrook to design and construct this moving roof. The brief called for a control system with the capacity to monitor different aspects of roof movement while maintaining high travel speeds and simple user operation. SEMF built the bogies and travelling platforms that allow the roof to open and close and designed a sophisticated control system to monitor and track its movements.

The fact that each roof panel weighed a substantial 12000 tonnes also created significant pressures in terms of design safety. SEMF responded to this challenge by developing a control system that is as operator friendly as it is robust. The process saw SEMF adapt several inventive control methods, including a sophisticated linear control system, never previously used in Australia, along with state-of-the-art hydraulics. SEMF currently oversees the maintenance and ongoing operation of the moving roof system.

Forestry Tasmania Head Office  

Fast Facts 

• Forestry Tasmania engaged SEMF to complete an expansion of its existing headquarters
• SEMF installed a reverse-cycle air conditioning system that responds to shifting operational requirements across the building’s different zones
• The new building features a distinctive glazed dome, housing rainforest plants and a running stream 

Forestry Tasmania is Tasmania’s peak government body for forestry management and sustainable timber practices. The organisation required a new premises to better reflect its core business and house its growing head office operations. Forestry Tasmania enlisted SEMF to expand its existing headquarters, a site comprising two heritage-listed buildings on Melville Street, West Hobart. The brief called for careful consideration of the buildings’ heritage aspects and an emphasis on optimising location.

SEMF started by demolishing the large storage sheds at the rear of the buildings, retaining the timbers for use in the construction of the third building. We installed a new air conditioning system which serviced the entire complex, including the heritage frontage facing Melville Street. We installed a reverse-cycle rooftop unit that could respond to the varying operational requirements associated with the building’s separate zones. The air-conditioning system is controlled by a microprocessor-based building control system and allows different zones to embrace air economy cycles – a fact that reduces cooling requirements.

SEMF also provided end-to-end electrical services, including switchboards, lighting, skirting and power, throughout the site. We fitted workshop areas with ceiling-mounted radiant heaters and installed automatic light occupancy switching across individual offices.

The new site  features an attractive glazed dome that links the two heritage-listed building with the extension and serves as the site’s main focal point. The dome, which is 22 metres wide and 10 metres high, plays host to rainforest plants and a running stream. The microclimate within the dome is controlled by a thermostatic fan as well as atomiser sprays, installed on an overhead walkway

Headquarters Joint Operations Command

FAST FACTS 

• Site was built to house over 750 defence personnel and absorb shifts in operational activity
• SEMF’s design includes water management systems such as harvested stormwater and grey and black water recycling.
• Total project value was $300 million 

Located near Bungendore, New South Wales, the Headquarters Joint Operations Command (HQJOC) is the primary operational site of the Australian Defence Force.

The state-of-the-art military complex plays host to the Joint Operations Intelligence Centre and the 1^st Joint Movement Group while acting as a base for the Chief of Joint Operations Command and over 750 defence personnel across the Joint, Maritime, Land, Air and Special Operations divisions.

SEMF designed and documented the $300 million complex, ensuring that the site could facilitate tactical decisions by the Chief of Joint Operations Command and foster greater agility in terms of information flow. The building was also built to absorb shifts in operational activity, with the capacity to accommodate additional defence staff on demand.

The complex also incorporates sustainable water management measures including systems for bore water, harvested stormwater and grey and blackwater recycling. 

Large span building structures

Fast facts

• SEMF developed a new building system for Sydney University incorporating structural steel portal frames
• We conducted comprehensive dead load testing for the steel frames
• The proposed design methods were met with an endorsement from Standards Australia

SEMF has played a key role in the design and construction of various large span building structures with a strong focus on industrial structures, storage sheds and sports facilities. Our major accomplishments include the design of innovative light beam sections and the installation of truss and portal systems tailored to respond to an architecturally-designed environment.

SEMF offers a full suite of design and construction services, including project concept development, engineering design and project management as well as assistance throughout the commissioning process. We have introduced cost-effective structural steel building systems for sites including commercial and industrial warehouse developments, mineral processing and food manufacturing facilities along with leisure centres and sports complexes.

SEMF’s partnership with the Sydney University Structural Centre powerfully highlights our expertise in this area. In 1998, we commenced research and development into potential new building systems for implementing lightweight structural steel portal frames. This saw us embark on a two-stage program, which included dead load testing for the frames. Our proposed design methods were met with an endorsement from Standards Australia ((Committee B/D 1-Steel Structures) )and incorporated into the Design Capacity Tables, the industry standard for structural steel.

Metal Fabrication College 

Fast facts

• SEMF overhauled the ventilation system and resolved airflow issues at Hobart’s Metal Fabrication College
• We installed a security system incorporating dual technology movement sensors
• SEMF fitted work spaces with exhaust systems that eradicated metal waste 

Hobart’s Metal Fabrication College is a major training facility which instills apprentices with knowledge and practical skills related to metal fabrication. However, the success of this learning environment was being impacted by various ventilation and fire safety issues.

SEMF tackled this problem by installing an air conditioning system across all classrooms, creating natural ventilation to improve airflow and introducing electric radiant heaters throughout the facility. We addressed the specific ventilation requirements of the workshop, welding bays and benches by designing and introducing laminar flow, backdraft  exhaust hoods that instantly eradicated welding fumes.

In addition to this, we fitted work spaces with dust extraction exhaust systems that removed metal waste and reticulated compressed air, acetylene, oxygen, argon and carbon dioxide to individual service panels.

SEMF also installed a state-of-the-art security system, incorporating dual technology movement sensors and connected a fire detection system to the site’s fire station, via a landline telephone. The new system initiates gas shut-down, alerts fire emergency services and sounds the evacuation alarm.

We made further improvements to fire safety by attaching wet wall washing sprinklers to workshop walls and installing an eight-person lift to enable disabled access to all building levels.

Macarthur Square Northern Extension

Fast facts 

• The Macarthur Square project incorporates sustainable hydraulic design via features such as rainwater harvesting, waterless fixtures and systems for water re-use.
• SEMF made key improvements to the centre’s connectivity by constructing a major bus interchange on Kellicar Road.
• The total project value was $160 million. 

Located in the Sydney suburb of Campbelltown, Macarthur Square is a three-level retail complex that plays host to over 100 fashion outlets along with major department stores such as Target, Kmart, Woolworths and Coles. SEMF was charged with designing and constructing Macarthur’s square’s new northern extension – a $160 million project that significantly increased the centre’s value and cemented its status as southwest Sydney’s premier retail hub.

SEMF designed and built an expansive entertainment and leisure precinct, which serves as the extension’s key focal point. This precinct incorporates a Greater Union cinema complex, AMF bowling alley and King Swim swimming school as well as an open-air square surrounded by cafes and restaurants.

The project saw SEMF construct three levels of specialty shops, mini-major retail areas and offices and introduce new parking facilities under the town square and the western side of the new retail development. It also made major improvements to the centre’s connectivity by constructing a bus interchange for Kellicar Road.

In the retail sector, hydraulics and fire design demand a high level of versatility as well as a focus on safety and operating costs. In response to this, SEMF designed a hydraulic system that included waterless fixtures and allowed for rainwater harvesting and water re-use from the new northern extension – features that combine sustainability principles with building engineering best practice. 

Queen Victoria Art Gallery & Museum

Fast facts 

• The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery is Australia’s largest regional museum.
• SEMF used innovative CFD modelling techniques to design an airconditioning system that minimised variable temperatures
• SEMF designed a computerised lighting system to respond to the requirements of different exhibitions.

Established in 1891, the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG) is Australia’s most expansive regional museum. Spanning a history and natural science museum at Inveresk and an art gallery at Royal Park, QVMAG is among Tasmania’s landmark cultural sites.

As part of an effort to become a world-class art venue, QVMAG joined forces with SEMF and acclaimed architect Andrew Andersons to design a state-of-the-art new gallery at the former railway yards in Inveresk. The new site was to house a major portion of the existing collection and play host to a roster of new exhibitions by contemporary artists from Australia and overseas.

SEMF played an interdisciplinary role throughout the project by providing structural, civil, environmental and electrical engineering services and designing air-conditioning, lighting, fire and security systems and vertical transportation for the site.

The deteriorating condition of the existing building called for significant improvements to structural integrity. SEMF responded to his by introducing inventive support arrangements which incorporated redundant gantry cranes.

The new museum also relied on precise air conditioning and ventilation systems that would promote visitor comfort and protect the works. After a research phase that included CFD (computational fluid dynamics) modelling of air flows to public areas and upper levels, SEMF designed an air-conditioning system that reduced temperature variables and accurately controlled humidity. The system also made use of ultrasonic humidifiers and eco-conscious features such as ground source heat pumps.

SEMF extended this same attention to detail to lighting design. The new computerised system was designed to address shifting lighting needs and specific curatorial requirements. SEMF also designed and engineered an innovative fire and smoke detection system and a two-level lift to enable access to the upper-level curator’s rooms, office spaces and storage facilities. 

Rialto Tenancy 

Fast facts

• Melbourne’s Rialto Tower is one of the tallest buildings in the Southern Hemisphere
• SEMF completed an 18,000 tenancy fitout for accounting group RSM Bird Cameron
• We provided end-to-end engineering services for the site

Located in Melbourne’s Collins Street, the Rialto Tower is a defining element of the city’s skyline and is among the Southern Hemisphere’s tallest buildings. Global accounting group RSM Bird Cameron intended to take up residency in the iconic tower and engaged SEMF to carry out the 18,000 square metre tenancy fitout.

SEMF provided end-to-end engineering services for the site, a move that spanned mechanical, electrical and structural engineering as well as the design and installation of fire safety and hydraulics systems. We also oversaw design, documentation and construction administration throughout the course of the project. 

Rouse Hill Town Centre

Fast Facts

• The Rouse Hill Regional Centre spans 123 hectares
• The Rouse Hill project incorporates one of the country’s largest residential wastewater schemes
• The centre's hydraulic system incorporates sustainable design features such as rainwater harvesting, water-effcient fixtures and a state-of-the-art cooling tower
• The total project budget was $350 million 

The Rouse Hill Town Centre is a $350 million mixed-use residential and commercial development in Sydney’s northwest. Conceived and constructed on a greenfield site, the project is part of the larger Rouse Hill Regional Centre redevelopment – an effort to spark regeneration and drive growth in the area.

The redevelopment spans retail sites such as Big W, Target, Woolworths and Coles, over 200 specialty stores, a cinema complex and a major transport interchange. It also includes over 100 new residential apartment as well a library and community centre.

Working in partnership with the NSW government, Lend Lease and the GPT Group, SEMF provided hydraulic and fire design services across the entire site. An example of sustainability best practice, the centre’s hydraulic system seamlessly integrates feature such as rainwater harvesting, water-efficient fixtures and fittings along with a cooling tower for recycling wastewater. SEMF also partnered with Sydney Water to deliver an innovative grey and black water recycling scheme –the country’s largest residential water recycling initiatives.

Incorporating 1600 residential dwellings, educational and recreational facilities, a police station and constructed wetlands, the Rouse Hill Regional Centre has served as an important source of renewal and vitality in the area.

Royal Hobart Hospital

Fast Facts 

• The Royal Hobart Hospital spans 11,000 square metres and houses 150 beds.
• SEMF designed, engineered and constructed the hospital in just 9 months.
• SEMF completed complex design and documentation services for the hospital in just six weeks.
• The project was valued at $60 million. 

The Royal Hobart Hospital is Tasmania’s largest hospital and the state’s premier private healthcare facility. It is also home to Hobart’s central medical research centre and enjoys strong partnerships with the University of Tasmania and other institutions.

SEMF was charged with spearheading and delivering the hospital’s $6 million redevelopment, a project that saw the old site transformed into a world-class multipurpose healthcare facility.

As part of the project, SEMF drew on the core facilities and existing shell of the old Queen Alexandria Maternity Hospital, stripping the floors to create space for the new 11,000 square metre, 150-bed site.

SEMF was also responsible for the new hospital’s state-of-the-art wings and medical facilities including the emergency department, high dependency unit and maternity ward as well as the angiography, surgical nursing and cardiology suites.

In particular, the refurbished theatre suite offers a powerful example of innovation in the field of building design. SEMF engineered the suite to seamlessly incorporate three standard operating rooms, one orthopaedic operating room and administration offices along with a surgeon’s lounge, a coffee shop and a process kitchen.

The new hospital was fully operational just nine months from the site acquisition and planning stages – a fact largely owed to SEMF’s project management expertise. SEMF also successfully designed and documented complex services valued at $6 million in a brief, six-week period.

Salamanca Mews

Fast facts

• Salamanca Mews is a luxury residential development in Hobart’s popular Salamanca district
• SEMF fitted the swimming pool with a de-humidifier which controlled heating requirements and humidity levels 
• We optimised ventilation and airflow by installing a new air conditioning system

Salamanca Mews is a luxury residential development located on the Hobart waterfront. The three low-level blocks play host to townhouses and penthouse apartments and owe their popularity to views of the parkland, mountain and harbour as well as a close proximity to the city centre. The development also features a common plaza, health club facilities, basement parking and key card security access.

SEMF provided a full stable of mechanical engineering services across the site, including centralised ventilation systems for the ensuite, kitchen exhaust and car park. We also designed and installed the development’s air conditioning system and maximised ventilation and airflow throughout the busy health club.

One of the site’s most attractive assets, the swimming pool works as a powerful drawcard for prospective tenants. SEMF  fitted the swimming pool with an innovative de-humidifier – a feature that addresses water and heating requirements while controlling humidity levels.

SEMF engineered each of these systems in line with residential noise restrictions. 

South Sydney Junior Rugby League Club

Fast facts

• SEMF designed a filtration system for the swimming pool, incorporating ultraviolet sterilisation and diatomoceous earth filters.
• SEMF designed and implemented an energy-efficient heat recovery system, which uses waste heat from the club’s mechanical plant to maintain temperatures.
• The total project value was $20 million. 

The South Sydney Junior Rugby League Club is a major sporting, food and entertainment venue, located in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. The club serves as the central hub for the South Sydney Juniors League, comprising local squads such as the Alexandria Rovers, Botany Juniors and Redfern All Blacks.

As an active member of the Sustainable Energy Development Authority (SEDA), the South Sydney Junior Rugby Club enlisted SEMF to complete a major extension of its existing facilities, with a focus on energy-smart systems and sustainable principles. The $20 million project saw SEMF construct a world-class, four-lane swimming pool as well as a new gymnasium incorporating steam rooms, weights and aerobics centres and general amenities.

Public swimming pools call for high-performing filtration systems that adhere to  public health requirements posed by the NSW Department of Health as well as HB241-2002, a strict regulation enforced by Standards Australia. SEMF responded to this brief by designing and installing a state-of-the-art filtration system, featuring ultraviolet sterilisation and diatomaceous earth filters. The UV system operates on low-to-medium pressure with a minimum flow rate of 240 cubic metres an hour. The pool’s PH control levels are maintained and regulated with carbon dioxide gas and it is treated regularly with chlorine, via an automatic filter.

SEMF also designed the pool’s overhead lighting and implemented an energy efficient heat recovery system, which converts the excess heat from the club’s mechanical air conditioning plant and uses this to increase temperatures.

Sustainability principles played a key role in every aspect of the project, from the use of carbon dioxide sensors to ensure that air quantities matched occupancy levels and  recycled stormwater for toilet flushing to the introduction of power factor correction on major electrical loads to allow for wiser use of electricity.  SEMF also implemented energy efficient lamps and smarter lighting components across the extension.

By seamlessly incorporating sustainability measures throughout the project, SEMF sparked substantial cost savings and lower operational costs for the South Sydney Junior Rugby League Club. 

Tattersall's Hobart Aquatic Centre

Fast Facts

• Site includes a 50m competition pool which can be divided into two 25m pools using a movable boom.
• Central pool hall spans an area of 5,500 square metres.
• Complex was designed in line with FINA requirements.

The Tattersall’s Hobart Aquatic Centre is a world-class multi-pool complex and recreational facility located in Queens Domain, between the city centre and the Tasman Bridge. The site’s major highlights include a 5,500 square metre central pool hall, a 50 metre competition pool that can be divided in half using a movable boom and a curved roof, designed in harmony with the surrounding natural amphitheatre.

SEMF was charged with the civil, structural and electrical engineering works related to the project – a brief that called for the construction of a dining tower and curved roof as well as a sophisticated lighting system.

Working within the strict requirements of global competitive sporting body Fédération Internationale de Natation (FINA), SEMF designed and constructed a slim diving tower that is both highly functional and visually attractive.

Although the large-span, curved roof structure is the most distinctive aspect of the facility, it also posed the biggest challenge.  After a period of investigation, SEMF incorporated a series of portalised steel trusses to support intermediate roof beams and limit sway. We also paid close attention to the connection detail to ensure that the trusses adhered to the roof’s curved profile.

In the lighting systems arena, FINA stipulates strict conditions to promote fairness across competitive swimming events. SEMF addressed these together with the demands of stakeholders and architects to engineer a lighting system that is cost-friendly, aesthetically pleasing and easy to maintain.

SEMF was also responsible for the design and construction of the administration area, which included childcare facilities and a gymnasium, a plant room to house air and water equipment and a media centre.

Canterbury earthquakes

SEMF has joined with Taylors and Quinn Property Group provide an integrated solution to respond to the rebuilding of multi-unit residential developments

Following the Canterbury earthquakes of 2010 and 2011 Christchurch has been in a period of recovery. The physical and psychological damage caused has made a significant mark on the City and the surrounds.  SEMF are pleased to join Taylors in  assisting in the rebuilding of the City.

Forming part of a team working for a major insurance provider, SEMF is carrying out an investigation and assessment of residential properties which have been damaged beyond the cap for direct Government funding for repairs. The properties on which our team is currently working include the multi-unit multi-insured, which are best described as groups of multiple dwellings which are each insured under different providers. Our  role in the project is to assess the damage to determine if each dwelling is best classed as a repair or a rebuild, following which we will lead a process of approvals to deliver an appropriate solution to restore the residents’ home to pre-earthquake condition.

Although the recovery appears slow, the resilience of the people here is apparent and encouraging. The Government, via the Earthquake Commission (EQC), has carried out large-scale testing and assessment throughout the City in a bid to identify appropriate areas to build and what structural designs should be used in each area. Although some areas through the City have been classed as ‘’red zone’’ which are effectively no-build zones, the Government has leapt at the opportunity to create a more liveable City with a plan for linearly connecting green open space. This linear open space will build on the already characteristic greenery of the City, typified by the iconic area of Hagley Park which is an area of approximately 165 hectares of public open space ‘’reserved forever as a public park, and shall be open for the recreation and enjoyment of the public’’.

SEMF and Taylors Development Strategists (TDS) have established a permanent office in Christchurch and each have permanent staff on location. Our involvement in  Christchurch to date has provided  extremely exciting and rewarding project opportunities.  SEMF along with TDS values highly the opportunity to contribute to the rebuild of Christchurch and assisting to restore the lives of its residents.