A landmark timber building in Brisbane is good news for another region in Queensland. The announcement that Australia’s largest timber building will be built in Brisbane could have big benefits for the Fraser Coast.
The $140 million engineered timber building is part of the project to revamp the Brisbane Showgrounds precinct in Fortitude Valley. It will stand more than 52 metres or nine-storeys.
Philip Vivian, Director of Bates Smart, the company which designed the building, said timber buildings are seen as the next generation of workplace “for a creative class looking for rich environments that enhance wellbeing and productivity”.
The appeal of buildings made from engineered timber is that they have a lower carbon footprint than those using other materials.
The production process produces zero waste, and timbers are sourced from certified sustainably-managed forests; they also produce less CO2 during ongoing operation.
“The building will showcase the versatility of timber, especially engineered-timber products,” said Fraser Coast Mayor Chris Loft.
“The Fraser Coast has a supply of sustainably sourced timber, companies which can make engineered-timber products and room to plant more timber.
“The Brisbane project will let developers looking at the Fraser Coast see the viability of timber; this is the start of a trend that will benefit the Fraser Coast.”
In January Council adopted a policy to encourage the use of timber in construction.
“The Fraser Coast has a significant history in timber production,” Mayor Loft said.
“The policy will encourage the local timber industry to grow, encourage innovation and create jobs.
“This Council has a strong focus on encouraging innovation, especially when it leads to jobs.”
