Ones to Watch In 2023 – Part 1

As projects pick up pace in 2023, we caught up with leaders from across Inertia to look at the projects we should keep on the radar in the year ahead. Across Industrial, Commercial and Retail, and Civil Engineering, Inertia’s Josh Falco, Emma Clements and Aaron Knight pick their projects to watch.

Josh Falco – Associate – Industrial Lead

2023 appears to be the year of logistics and warehousing, with projects across South-East Queensland taking shape. From major logistic hubs to storage unit complexes, the region’s unique geographical advantages and connections to national and international markets appear to be driving demand for facilities. That is before we factor in the benefits that Inland Rail will bring to the region. With each one typically requiring civil, structural and hydraulic engineering support, there will be lots going on, but with projects being planned and securing approval, for many, it is a case of watching this space. So, while I won’t get too far ahead of things, it’s worth looking back at a fantastic project we worked on in 2022 that is due for completion in the coming months, My Space at Burleigh Heads.

To support his project, we provided structural engineering services for the 48-unit industrial site working closely with the builder to solve construction procedure concerns, such as casting beds and footing levels, and we implemented the use of six-metre-high soldier pile walls to alleviate concerns about the site and create an efficient build. With creative design and simple construction, the finished project will be a great example of what can be achieved in the sector.

Learn more about the project HERE

Emma Clements – Principal

North Lakes Eco Precinct is a project to keep your eye on in 2023. In December, approval was received by Moreton Bay Regional Council, which will see a $72 million eco-hotel and wellness precinct developed to support the region’s economic growth and meet visitor demand ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. So far, we have provided critical flood, civil and structural advice and are starting to develop full documentation to help shape the footprint of what will become an iconic lifestyle and community development.

I think that this project will be an exemplar of how to create a sustainable development that directly addresses the needs of a region for high-quality accommodation to support rapid growth in tourism and subsequent visitor numbers. In addition, the precinct will support the local community with a day spa, organic grocer, garden-to-table dining venues, regular recreational events and food trucks, a naturopathy, home and garden centre, balancing the needs of tourists and residents perfectly and potentially paving the way for similar long-term developments that will support the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games through being a central part of the community before, during and after the world turns its attention to South-East Queensland. As well as that, Maple Developments have engaged an amazing team of multi-disciplinary specialists to develop the project, and with world-class talent from Urbis, PPR Traffic and Transport Engineering, LAT Studios and Open Architecture Studio on board, this will be an amazing project to watch as it takes shape.

Aaron Knight – Senior Civil Engineer

The project I’m looking forward to seeing develop through 2023 is Brickworks Park at Mina Parade in Alderley. It’s an interesting project for a number of reasons, firstly it is taking an underutilised old industrial and indoor sports complex close to Brisbane CBD and reinventing it into a modern development of 171 units and 51 two-storey townhouses across the 4.7-hectare sites. Secondly, the site has some interesting geotechnical challenges – a 15m cliff as well as the requirement to test soil and remediate if needed. With a strong interest in the project, we are about to move from design to civil works, and I’m keen to see how an iconic industrial structure is repurposed to provide a new community and assets for Alderley.

Learn more about this project HERE