Bennettswood Reserve Sports Pavilion

The original Bennettswood Pavilion had served the community for several decades. A new venue was required to provide the community a fit-for-purpose, modern facility. The scope of works required programming the delivery of the new pavilion prior to the demolition of the existing structure to minimise disruption to community sport calendars.

The new single level venue was built over a former tip site within the reserve grounds. This required the existing ground level to be raised over one metre, before driving 12 metre length steel piles through the fill to solid rock foundations below. Concrete slabs were then poured over a protective membrane system, from which a steel, concrete block and brick structure was built, with elevations completed with large windows to service views overlooking both the north and south ovals.

A multifunctional facility, features of the pavilion include a signature soaring convex roof structure and a 100m2 multipurpose room with operable walls. This allows for the transformation from a functional sports facility with change rooms, separate umpire rooms, first aid room and bathrooms on fixtured match days, to a modern, light filled large social function space inclusive of commercial kitchen and amenities.

Environmental initiatives incorporated by the design team include solar panels, rainwater tanks connected to flush the toilets, energy efficient glazing, and expansive garden trellises. Security concerns were negated by the installation of a high-tech swipe-card system, keeping both the facility and associated sport clubs’ equipment safe. 

The redeveloped pavilion and surrounding reserve are now high-use sports assets, co-owned by the City of Whitehorse and Deakin University, providing a state-of-the-art facility for the community.