Construction continues on Mount Gambier’s Wulanda Recreation and Convention Centre

Construction on the City of Mount Gambier’s largest ever infrastructure project - the Wulanda Recreation and Convention Centre at Olympic Park - is progressing despite delays due to COVID-19 restrictions.

The blockwork for the courts, amenity facilities and aquatics area has commenced, while ongoing internal electrical, mechanical and plumbing services works continue as does structural steel works in the court area and western storage area. 1300 solar panels will also be installed in the coming weeks.

Project Sponsor Barbara Cernovskis notes “If you drive past the development regularly or keep an eye on the monthly time lapse videos released by Council you would have seen a lot of activity on site during the past couple of months.”

Head contractor BADGE Constructions is currently installing the roof on the facility with Cernovskis advising “now that the roof is being installed, we can really see the inside of the building starting to take shape. Crews are working on ceiling framing and closing the walls and partitions between the community spaces, amenities and office area.”

There are currently about 80 people working on site each day and the total workforce is expected to reach about 120 in the coming months.

The program of works is being amended and prioritised to address any delays and challenges due to the changing environment of COVID-19.

Cernovskis adds “It is challenging building in a COVID-19 environment, particularly due to periodic lockdowns hindering the procurement of goods and contractors from Victoria.

“Border restrictions have made it difficult to secure the required trades on site and it has been a challenge to find specialist trades to undertake some of the jobs required.

“The Wulanda Recreation and Convention Centre will be life changing for our community and it will be worth the wait.”

Image: The stairs from the foyer to the second level of the centre are under construction.