Taronga Zoo - Great Southern Oceans Exhibit

The Great Southern Ocean (Australian Coastline Precinct) is a new themed exhibit supported by various water treatment and recycling facilities for the accommodation and viewing of various marine animals and birds. The works include: redevelopment of the site including demolition of certain existing structures, excavation and removal of excess materials and stabilisation of the terraces and cliff face; protection of the principal's assets within and around the site including designated structures, services, heritage items and trees to be retained or to be incorporated into the new precinct; construction of the life support system in the precinct comprising sea water and freshwater transport, distribution treatment, recycling and drainage facilities to connect the various areas of the precinct and plant rooms already existing; construction of sea water pools which retain approximately 2,500m3 of water and a pumping/filtration system delivering approximately 2600m3/hour; construction includes a new themed beach, boardwalks and water management services and connections to existing systems, a new seal performance theatre for up to 950 spectators including various pools and training areas, toilets, plant rooms and life support systems; a new leopard seal pool including underwater viewing, plant rooms, life support system, offices, building, equipment, new lift and exit plazas; a new penguin exhibit comprising new pools, beaches, plant rooms and life support system and services; construction of new boardwalk and refurbishment of the existing seal cove pool and the life support system and services for incorporation into the new precinct and fully integrated landscaping and interpretive services.

Challenges

Difficult and complicated program in place insuring project timeline is met.

Clients Specific Needs

The project involves the use of 2 tower cranes so as to expedite program and easily manoeuvre product around site.

Any specific OH & S or environmental issues

Close monitoring of surroundings due to proximity of Sydney Harbour.

Progress

The Taronga Zoo Great Southern Oceans Exhibit is nearing completion. Reed Construction has been given extra works, including the building of a new pelican pool and the fit-out and refurbishment of the lower entry building. Meanwhile, plant room fit-out is being completed along with hydrostatic and water quality testing of the various pools. Finishing touches are also being applied to the landscaping.