be BUILDING EFFICIENCY

2015-16 EDITION

People, Values and Culture Assuring ’s Biosecurity with Specialised Systems The Rise of Residential: A Complete Service Offering It’s Go Go Go in Bendigo as New Hospital Takes Shape A Cool Look and Feel for Arena Tuned Performance Sydney Comes Alive New Paradigm at UQ Specialist Fire Protection for Automotive Industry Australia’s Broadband Revolution Keeping Science Cool Contemporary Services for a Historic Site A Singular Vision

FEATURED STORIES MESSAGE CHAIRMA N’ S CLIVE WEEKS PEOPLE, Chairman VALUES AND

Welcome to this year’s edition of CULTURE A.G. Coombs’ publication, Building Efficiency.

This has been another important year for the A.G. Coombs Group with continued implementation of long-term strategic growth It has been another exciting period for the initiatives, and the continual strengthening of A.G. Coombs Group with the successful progress our technical expertise, multi-service capability and completion of significant projects, fresh and geographic presence. Our strategy is innovation and further development of our based on delivering success for our clients capabilities, as well as the delivery of high value and people through strong performance - technical services to a wide range of leading bringing safety, innovation and quality to organisations. In the same period, we have also each and every project - underpinned by secured new and challenging opportunities for A.G. Coombs’ long held values of teamwork, RUSSELL the future. TELFORD respect and integrity. This year’s edition of Building Efficiency again Managing Director There has been continued investment in the highlights the breadth of innovative building services solutions provided by the A.G. Coombs development of our people, their safety and

MESSAGE DIRECTOR’S MANAGING Group and is a clear testament to our talented wellbeing, and providing an environment that people; they continue to be our greatest strength supports the teamwork required to deliver at and together with our strong core values and the highest level. These are all essential organisational culture are the A.G. Coombs Group’s attributes of our integrated business model. clear point of difference.

It has also been pleasing that this growth Innovation, industry leadership and quality and development has been accompanied by outcomes are central to our delivery of an ongoing commitment to the A.G. Coombs collaborative PPP arrangements, complex values based culture. design and construction projects, sophisticated multi-services maintenance, high end technical The Group Board - comprising Executives and management as well as practical advisory Non Executives with a wealth of diverse services. experience - has a clear sighted strategic Technology continues to enable substantial change vision for the A.G. Coombs Group and a strong and improvement in our industry. We remain at the focus on long-term success and prosperity, forefront in the application of Building Information supporting growth with strong governance. Modelling (BIM), delivering considerable The A.G. Coombs Group Building Efficiency improvements in building services design, and the magazine is testament to just some of our benefits from off-site fabrication, making systems many achievements this year and I commend installation quicker, more efficient and safer, while this publication to you. enhancing ongoing facilities operation. We are applying new approaches to asset The safety and wellbeing of our people, continuing CONTENTS management and maintenance, using information personal development and a strong teamwork technology to transform the level and usefulness culture are fundamental to our collective success. 02 Assuring Australia’s Biosecurity of information available to technicians, while also Being incident and injury free wherever we have with Specialised Systems adding to our service and maintenance capabilities a presence, across every part of our operation, is 04 The Rise of Residential: to deliver improved insights and outcomes for a fundamental commitment. We have maintained A Complete Service Offering facility owners, managers and building occupants. our certification to SafetyMap Advanced level as 05 It’s Go Go Go in Bendigo as Our significant investments in innovation are well as national certification to Australian Standard New Hospital Takes Shape AS4801:2001, which has extended to our new delivering step change improvements in project 06 A Cool Look and Feel for delivery and safety, which are resetting industry operations. Margaret Court Arena standards and have been recognised by a number This year, A.G. Coombs also celebrates seventy 07 Tuned Performance of industry and government awards. years in business. Over the past seven decades, 08 Sydney Comes Alive The provision of specialist technical Advisory there have been so many milestones to 10 services by our industry experts is highly valued. acknowledge that we felt it appropriate to record New Paradigm at UQ These services support improved project delivery them in an official history. Importantly, we are not 11 Specialist Fire Protection for and facility operations, resulting in buildings that just telling our story but, in many ways, the story Automotive Industry better serve the businesses and people who of our industry. 12 Australia’s Broadband Revolution depend on them whilst having a lower impact Compiling this history has allowed us to appreciate 14 Keeping Science Cool on the environment. and better understand our journey. It has also 15 Contemporary Services for a Historic Site The Group continues to grow and maintains a highlighted how we have evolved as a company very strong and diverse pipeline of work. We are and contributed to advancing the industry in which 16 A Singular Vision active across a very wide range of facilities, with we operate. specialist services and clearly focused capabilities in healthcare, particularly in large acute care We would not have such a vibrant story to tell hospitals, specialist science facilities including without the contributions of our employees and high containment laboratories, Data Centres specialist contractors. Due to their efforts, our and telecommunications establishments, higher great culture and enduring core values, A.G. Coombs education campuses, major airports, as well as is in the strong position it is today. We also sincerely large complex commercial and retail buildings. thank our clients for being part of this journey.

Sustainable business operations and providing Looking to the future, the A.G. Coombs Group is valued services to our clients to improve the extremely well positioned with a strong pipeline of sustainability of their businesses remains a focus, work, respected relationships and leading in-house and A.G. Coombs’ Environmental Management capabilities, including a well developed and robust System has maintained independent certification business infrastructure, to continue to deliver to the AS/NZS ISO14001 Environmental outcomes of the highest standard for our valued Management Systems standard. clients. ASSURING AUSTRALIA’S BIOSECURITY WITH SPECIALISED SYSTEMS

Situated on a huge 1.4 square kilometre parcel of land in ’s northern suburb of Mickleham, a new state-of-the-art Post Entry Quarantine facility is being built to manage high risk animal and plant imports.

Biosecurity is about keeping Australia safe from A.G. Coombs Projects was appointed by The bee facility is the first of the seven compounds exotic pests and diseases that could threaten Managing Contractor, Leighton Contractors, to be completed. Following successful testing our human, plant and animal health, and our to deliver mechanical and HVAC services to using domestic bees, it is envisaged that imported way of life. The new facility is being built to the first three stages of the new PEQ facility, bees may be quarantined at the new facility consolidate the four existing PEQ operations and Walker Fire Protection was commissioned from the end of 2015. Australian beekeepers and has been designed in cooperation with to install fire detection systems. import bees to increase genetic diversity in order industry. A wide range of specialised HVAC, mechanical to improve traits such as honey production and Since commencement on-site in early 2014, and fire services are being delivered to meet disease resistance, and this must be done construction has progressed significantly. the many individual requirements of the whilst minimising the risk of diseases entering The main structures of the horse, cat and compounds. Everything from straightforward the country. dog compounds have been erected and the reverse cycle air conditioning for the electrical When complete, the new bio-secure plant glasshouses, screenhouse and laboratory in substation building, through to very particular compound will be the only Commonwealth the plant compound have been built and climate systems for the complex Quarantine Containment operated facility for high risk plants imported to control systems installed. The bee compound is (QC) laboratory spaces, QC2 and QC3, are being Australia. It will include 2,000 square metres of completed and buildings providing site-wide installed. Fire detection will be installed greenhouse space, which will be supported by services such as the dispatch, administration throughout the facility mimicked back to a 1,200 square metres of shade house, and will and central utilities buildings are scheduled for central monitoring and control station. provide a higher level of quarantine containment in completion later in 2015. a small QC3 area within a broader QC2 boundary.

02 To mimic Australia’s different climatic regions, will replace existing facilities in both Sydney humidity control to support the safe and effective the greenhouses are divided into zones where and Melbourne. From this time, cats and dogs operation of the facility. Detailed engineering factors such as temperature and humidity can be will need to enter Australia through Melbourne and technical support has been important in independently adjusted. Maintaining appropriate Airport and complete their Post Entry Quarantine achieving the required outcomes and the on-site growing conditions during the quarantine period at the new facility before being transported to team is preparing for the thorough commissioning is required to ensure adequate plant growth for their new homes throughout Australia. processes and rigorous testing of all systems. the disease screening process. In March 2015 The large scale of the construction site has Leighton Contractors’ Senior Project Engineer on more than 500 domestic plants were delivered brought logistics challenges associated with the the PEQ project, Andrew Rooney, is impressed to the new PEQ facility, including tropical plants coordination of people, equipment and material with the development to date. such as bananas and lychees, to assist with deliveries. These have been carefully managed “This new Commonwealth operated Post Entry commissioning and to test how the greenhouse using pre-planned strategies and the application Quarantine facility will be a key component of services maintain warm, humid conditions during of experienced area foremen across the site. Australia’s biosecurity system. Secure and efficient the Melbourne autumn and winter. post entry quarantine reduces biosecurity risk “This new Commonwealth operated Post Entry Quantantine facility will be a key associated with the importation of new genetic material which is necessary for Australian component of Australia’s biosecurity system. Leighton Contractors is pleased to agriculture to maintain competiveness and be working with the Department of Agriculture in delivering this exciting new productivity. Leighton Contractors is pleased to project, and we are confident in the A.G. Coombs Group’s ability to successfully be working with the Department of Agriculture deliver the specialist mechanical, HVAC and fire protection systems and services in delivering this exciting new project, and we required for this large, complex facility.” are confident in the A.G. Coombs Group’s ability to successfully deliver the specialist mechanical, Andrew Rooney, Senior Project Engineer, Leighton Contractors HVAC and fire protection systems and services required for this large, complex facility.” The new facility will also provide capacity for Key technical challenges for A.G. Coombs in the quarantine of 240 cats and 400 dogs when many of the buildings have been around the completed. The first stage is expected to be assurance of pressure hierarchies, air completed and operating in late 2015 and this cleanliness and correct temperature and

VICTORIAN WORKCOVER AWARD FOR INITIATIVE

A.G. Coombs was presented with the “Best Solution The winning entry referenced the significant to a Specific Workplace Health and Safety Issue” prefabrication works undertaken for the Peter Doherty Award at the 2014 Victorian WorkCover Authority Institute for Infection and Immunity, a complex new Health and Safety Awards. university building in Melbourne. A.G. Coombs was The single biggest safety risk identified in the responsible for the installation of mechanical services, construction of many high rise buildings is the air conditioning and ventilation systems and installed, installation of vertical services risers, with the potential what was at the time, the largest prefabricated for falls from height and exposure to materials / debris services riser in Australia. This innovation resulted in falling from above. A.G. Coombs has pioneered the the elimination of a very significant number of hours introduction of large-scale prefabricated services risers of complicated on-site work. in Australia, which significantly reduces this risk.

03 THE RISE OF RESIDENTIAL: A COMPLETE SERVICE OFFERING

As higher density living becomes the norm for more and more Australians, the quality of building services and, in particular, air conditioning has become a differentiator between apartments. In Melbourne, A.G. Coombs is working to improve the standard of building services in the high rise residential market, with enhanced comfort, increased equipment life and improved energy efficiency as key outcomes.

Located just outside of the Melbourne CBD, These changes have resulted in improved system Mike O’Neill, Chairman – OC Committee, with sweeping views of Albert Park Lake and performance and comfort in the apartments, SCALA Lakeside Apartments, together with the park, SCALA Lakeside Apartments is a reduced chiller plant short-cycling that, in turn, fellow committee members, is very pleased 13-floor contemporary residential building will deliver an increased chiller service lifecycle, with A.G. Coombs’ technical capability and incorporating 108 apartments. and a reduction in pump energy usage. service delivery. A.G. Coombs provides maintenance services A key challenge in delivering the upgrade was “We were very impressed with A.G. Coombs’ to the mechanical systems in the building, and the coordination of works, with all 108 apartments ability to deliver the air conditioning system recently delivered a sophisticated air conditioning fully tenanted. A.G. Coombs developed, controls and valve upgrade project; working well system controls and valve upgrade project to communicated and effectively implemented to limit daily impact on residents as they moved improve system performance and increase a detailed roll-out plan with minimal disruption about the building, which is appreciated”, said resident comfort. to the residents. Mr O’Neill. “As the project progressed, we received a number of comments from residents “We were very impressed with A.G. Coombs’ ability to deliver the air conditioning as to their satisfaction with the resulting system controls and valve upgrade. The team continues to demonstrate a upgrade and especially the A.G. Coombs team. The words often used were ‘courteous’ and consistently high level of service throughout the building and to the residents of ‘respectful’. Our building continues to operate the 108 apartments within.” Mike O’Neill, Chairman – OC Committee, SCALA Lakeside Apartments efficiently, with A.G. Coombs continuing to demonstrate a consistently high level of service The A.G. Coombs Service team, with the Initiatives such as the use of pipe freezing throughout the building and to the residents of assistance of A.G. Coombs Advisory, proposed technology at the individual apartment systems the 108 apartments within.” the controls upgrade to the SCALA Body Corporate during roll-out led to reduced installation times on the basis that it would improve controllability, and inconvenience, and helped minimise project system performance and maintainability. risks for all stakeholders. A.G. Coombs’ engineering experience and detailed The upgrade has delivered a more efficient AWARDS FOR knowledge of the building and its systems overall system for the building, has increased A.G. COOMBS resulted in a design, and an implementation plant life and, ultimately, has improved resident APPRENTICES methodology, that required no additional field comfort. Management processes have also been wiring or pipework modifications within the streamlined, with mechanical maintenance calls A.G. Coombs operates a apartments, minimising the impact on residents. from the apartments now handled directly by structured and comprehensive The review of the chilled water system undertaken A.G. Coombs, ensuring all works are undertaken Apprenticeship Program to ensure that its apprentices make by A.G. Coombs Advisory identified practical consistently, effectively and in line with design and operational solutions leading to the the most of their training opportunities and become SCALA’s requirements. effective, capable and qualified tradespeople with the installation of new three-way chilled water control capacity for ongoing career and personal development. valves, a variable speed drive for the chilled water Two of the company’s apprentices were recognised pump, and a more capable controller to facilitate at the 2015 Student of the Year Awards, presented improved control strategies. by the Box Hill Institute of TAFE. First year plumbing apprentice, Jessica Malouf, was presented with the “Vocational Student of the Year Award” for her pre-apprenticeship studies. And third year refrigeration apprentice, Ryan O’Connor, was a finalist in the “Third Year Apprentice of the Year Award”. Ryan has previously received the “2014 First Year Apprentice of the Year – Alan Broadhead Award” and the “2013 First Year Outstanding Student of the Year Award” for Refrigeration / Air Conditioning. Successful nominees were chosen from over 35,000 enrolments, with award winners and finalists recognised for their outstanding academic achievement, leadership qualities, industry service and commitment to learning. 04 IT’S GO GO GO IN BENDIGO AS NEW HOSPITAL TAKES SHAPE

Bendigo’s hospital is quickly taking on a very different shape, Acquiring information to support efficient and safe site installation processes has also been taken with construction of this new $630 million state-of-the-art, to a new level on this project by A.G. Coombs, acute healthcare facility well underway. with the innovative use of information technology systems. A.G. Coombs’ site foremen use tablet The new Bendigo Hospital is planned to rank 40 kilometres of wire hanging cable will be devices configured with purpose built Apps to among the best health services across Australia used to support ductwork, cushion heads manage real time information, to plan and track in terms of access, quality and efficiency. It also and lightweight services, and around 6,000 installation works, help manage site teams and promises to be sustainable, energy efficient and air grilles will supply and extract air within compile project records. future-ready. the hospital. These statistics reinforce that The new facilities are due for completion in this is, indeed, the largest regional hospital The hospital’s success will be dependent on a December 2016. development in . wide range of factors including patient experience and staff satisfaction; it will also be reliant on high Prefabrication methodologies are a key feature quality, high performing building services systems. of the installation process. 47 vertical prefabricated services riser modules have been delivered and Large-scale specialist mechanical and HVAC installed and the last of several hundred multi- services are being designed and installed to service horizontal racks have been put in place meet the wide range of requirements in the

“The new hospital facility and its services are very complex and require a sophisticated construction process. It’s rewarding for all involved to see everything coming together, assisted by the implementation of an equally sophisticated building services process making use of BIM and prefabrication. We appreciate the dedication of A.G. Coombs and its local alliance partners BIM FOR VIRTUAL and the quality of the mechanical services installation to date, and look forward CONSTRUCTION to continuing our journey with the team in delivering a high quality, sustainable, Building Information Modelling (BIM) is increasingly delivering significant benefits to the building and construction industry. and future-ready hospital to the Bendigo community.” Virtual construction aims to bring together experts in design Gerard Dillon, Senior Services Manager, Lendlease and site construction to work collaboratively using a single BIM model. A key benefit of this approach is the sequence new hospital; from straightforward systems in the hospital’s corridor ceiling spaces. These development or ‘virtual build’ – modelling exactly how the installation will be sequenced and carried out. This can then serving administrative areas, through to high include innovative design features that reduce be used to demonstrate to the project team and clients the criticality systems supporting operating theatres, the extent of disruptive maintenance access proposed project delivery and has proven to be particularly critical treatment rooms and laboratory areas. required in patient areas. The use of large-scale valuable for complex plant room builds. A.G. Coombs in conjunction with local Bendigo prefabrication significantly reduces the amount Other key benefits of virtual construction include more effective of working-at-height and almost eliminates the area alliance partner, McCaig Air Conditioning, safety in design reviews – with the model being evaluated is delivering these mechanical services as part need for oxy-acetylene hot welding on-site; to remove installation, operational or maintenance related of the Lendlease design and construction team. substantially reducing site safety risks. safety concerns; and the identification of installation issues, including potential installation clashes prior to construction The installation will include around 35,000 A.G. Coombs’ Building Information Modelling (BIM) commencing. A.G. Coombs has seen improved project team expertise has helped streamline manufacturing, pieces or 40 kilometres of ductwork, over 800 performance and a significant reduction in re-work and material systems coordination and installation processes. air conditioning and ventilation fans, over 130 waste using virtual construction techniques. BIM is also air handling units and fan coil units, and Virtually no systems clashes have been important in the lead-in to prefabrication methodologies that approximately five kilometres of pipework. encountered on-site, and where issues have can deliver optimum project outcomes. been identified, the process to resolve on-site has been much simpler.

05 A large-scale redevelopment of has transformed it into the only precinct in the world with three retractable roof stadiums. As part of the upgrade, Margaret Court Arena now sports what is believed to be the world’s fastest moving stadium roof. The next key challenge was to ensure patron comfort in this new weatherproof stadium.

In 1988 the Grand Slam installation of the new high-tech operable roof and MCA’s sleek and acoustically lined operable roof tournament moved from Kooyong in Melbourne full air conditioning. The new HVAC system had is believed to be the world’s fastest moving to its current home at Melbourne Park. With its to meet a very wide range of requirements, from stadium roof, able to open or close in less than large modern , since named Rod Laver the low noise levels required for matches five minutes. Arena and featuring a retractable roof, and a through to the need to cool a space that houses A number of the new air conditioning systems, number of show and practice courts, the new thousands of energetic rock music fans. such as the kitchen exhausts that serve the facility became the world-leading tennis and arena’s new food outlets, were installed within entertainment venue at that time. On the eve of “Bringing our own construction expertise this new operable roof structure. Services had Australian Open 2003, ‘Show Court One’ was to this project, together with A.G. Coombs’ to accommodate the irregular shape, operability officially re-named ‘Margaret Court Arena’ (MCA) HVAC and mechanical expertise, we have and pleated design, which complements the as a tribute to Australia’s most successful female design of the adjacent . tennis player. Court won a record 24 Grand helped to build a better, bigger arena The installation also had to provide safe and Slam singles titles, a record that still stands. to improve both patron comfort and ready access for maintenance. 3D CAD drafting In 2013, as part of a $700 million Melbourne accessibility in and around Melbourne Park.” and modelling technology was used to address Park Masterplan led by Major Projects Victoria, Nat Gray, Senior Project Engineer, Lendlease these complicated design challenges and help works began on a significant redevelopment ensure a trouble-free installation. of MCA that would transform the court into a A.G. Coombs Projects undertook enabling works to The upgraded arena opened in time for multi-use stadium capable of hosting a wide modify MCA’s existing systems in preparation for Australian Open 2015. range of sporting and entertainment events. this major redevelopment and was subsequently Nat Gray, Lendlease’s Senior Project Engineer The major upgrade increased seated crowd awarded the Melbourne Park Western Precinct on the Melbourne Park Western Precinct capacity by 1,500 to 7,500 and saw the contract by construction contractors Lendlease. The scope included the provision of HVAC and project, was impressed with A.G. Coombs’ mechanical services to MCA, as well as to an ability to conquer the complexity and technical A COOL extended concourse area that joins the arena challenges presented by the project. with Rod Laver Arena. It incorporated the detailed “We are pleased to have transformed Margaret LOOK AND design coordination, installation, commissioning, Court Arena with Major Projects Victoria,” he and service and maintenance of the new chillers, said. “Bringing our own construction expertise to FEEL FOR boilers, air handling plant and ducted air this project, together with A.G. Coombs’ HVAC distribution required to properly air condition the and mechanical expertise, we have helped to new enclosed space. build a better, bigger arena to improve both MARGARET patron comfort and accessibility in and around COURT Melbourne Park.” ARENA

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Many buildings do not operate at optimal levels. Getting them At 300 LaTrobe Street, the building’s mechanical plant has consumed approximately 1,500,000kWh to perform to where they are capable requires a coordinated less energy in 2014 compared to 2007. These team effort between building owner, facility manager and efficiencies have helped drive the building’s NABERS Energy rating up from a 3.5 Star rating technical experts. Through the implementation of a strategic to a 5 Star rating. Similarly, at 5 Queens Road, and technically advanced energy optimisation program, Charter the ongoing tuning of the building’s optimum start and static pressure controls systems has Hall is witnessing much more than just improved operational taken the building from a 4.5 Star NABERS Energy rating to a 5 Star rating in just two years. performance and reductions in energy consumption across Across the whole portfolio, the program was its Victorian building portfolio... independently assessed in 2014 as responsible for a weighted average uplift of 18.5% in energy Charter Hall is one of Australia’s leading property potential and, conversely, the greater part of efficiency. To that time, this equated to emissions groups. With an aim to increase building efficiency, the energy wastage risk. A structured tuning savings equivalent to taking 1,850 cars off improve tenant comfort and reduce cost, the program was devised and applied to the HVAC the road, energy cost savings well in excess property owner sought ways to reduce energy systems to iteratively improve the way the of $800,000, and NABERS Energy ratings consumption and improve the NABERS Energy systems and their subsystems work together improvements across all buildings. The program ratings of two of its Melbourne-based buildings; to provide comfort conditions in the buildings. is ongoing as are the savings and improvements. 300 LaTrobe Street and 150 Lonsdale Street. A Building Energy Optimisation Program (BEOP) “The energy savings achieved from tuning are a by-product of the buildings operating pilot program was initiated and undertaken by correctly. The program, and the coordinated team effort between Charter Hall, Knight Frank A.G. Coombs Advisory, in conjunction with and A.G. Coombs Advisory, has proved very successful, achieving effective and lasting Charter Hall and Facility Managers Knight Frank. The program demonstrated how the benefits of energy efficiency improvements and clearly demonstrating the ability of existing buildings the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) to operate at modern standards of energy efficiency. It is also delivering a wide range of system components working in harmony with additional facility benefits equally important to Charter Hall, including improved occupant each other, combined with significant advances comfort, reduction in cooling tower water usage, a reduced Carbon footprint and improved in control strategies, could better manage and reduce the buildings’ energy consumption. plant lifecycles.” Alan Johncock, Senior Manager Technical Services, Charter Hall

The success of the pilot project led to a further The BEOP followed a detailed planning and This achievement was formerly recognised at five Victorian-based Charter Hall properties being management regime that continually engaged the Facility Management Association of added to the scope. and ensured alignment of the facility stakeholders. Australia’s 2014 FM Industry Awards for The primary focus of the BEOP for Charter Hall‘s The activities of the program were integrated Excellence, with the Charter Hall, Knight Frank Victorian building portfolio was the HVAC systems. into both the operational management processes and A.G. Coombs Advisory team receiving a Typically, these consume around 50% of the of the facility manager and the practices of the high commendation in the “Sustainability & buildings’ energy consumption, constitute the owner, and informed an improved maintenance Environmental Impact” category, and achieving majority of the energy efficiency improvement approach for A.G. Coombs Service. finalist status in the “Energy Efficiency” Award.

LEADING MULTI- concept development, design, specification, Advisory has delivered a wide range of successful installation and commissioning, to ongoing operation client outcomes over the last 12 months. Examples SERVICE ADVISORY and maintenance. include Gold LEED accreditation on world-class sporting CAPABILITY As an independent provider, A.G. Coombs Advisory venues; ICA services for a 6 Star Green Star local A.G. Coombs has always been a ‘thinking’ Pty Ltd now supplies practical trusted advice and government building; a 40% base building energy company as well as a ‘doing’ one. services across all building technologies, with leading reduction for a large Sydney CBD commercial building; commissioning management for an 8MW co-generation An Advisory service was introduced in 2000 industry capabilities in mechanical, HVAC, electrical, system; documentation of the fire mode operation for to provide facility owners and managers with lighting, fire protection services and building a portfolio of tertiary education facilities; and a 1.5MW practical and dependable technical support automation and controls. R22 replacement chiller design for a Brisbane Data throughout a building’s lifecycle - from Centre resulting in 12% PUE improvement. + 07 Already one of the world’s most loved cities, Sydney is taking off with new precinct developments, state-of-the-art commercial office construction, redeveloped arts and entertainment facilities, and the construction of world-leading educational facilities. SYDNEY COMES ALIVE

Boasting the world’s largest natural harbour Appointed by developer Lendlease, A.G. Coombs walls and access platforms, were a major as its centrepiece, Sydney welcomes millions is delivering mechanical and HVAC services to feature of the HVAC installation and a first of visitors each year and is the home to iconic two of the towers - Tower Two at 42 levels and for high rise buildings in Australia. landmarks including the Opera House and Harbour Tower One at 49 levels. In March 2015, Tower Tom Waters, Lendlease’s Construction Manager Bridge. It is also currently the location of some Two reached its highest point of construction for Tower Two International Towers Sydney, is of Australia’s largest redevelopment projects. and just months later, hundreds of Westpac pleased with the building’s progress to date, staff moved in. Construction cranes dominate Sydney’s western saying “It is exciting to see Tower Two coming harbour skyline, with two of Sydney’s largest The tower’s podium, low- and mid-rise sections to life, with the building almost fully operational urban regeneration projects - Barangaroo and have been completed, with the first stage of and hundreds of people already working within Darling Harbour Live - transforming the area into Practical Completion achieved in July 2015. it. This project outcome is testament to the Installation and commissioning teams delivered one of the most distinctive and dynamic new quality of the construction team, and the the Essential Services systems enabling anchor waterfront, business and leisure districts in strong partnership between Lendlease and tenant Westpac to commence occupancy. the world. A.G. Coombs, with leading expertise and Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been Barangaroo spans 22 hectares of prime harbour innovation applied throughout construction.” used for system coordination, and the foreshore, reconnecting the Sydney CBD to prefabricated vertical services risers, Tower One International Towers Sydney is its western harbour. Barangaroo South is the incorporating ductwork, pipework, fire rated scheduled for completion in 2016. major urban portion of this redevelopment, incorporating apartments, an international “It’s exciting to see Tower Two coming to life, with the building almost fully operational hotel, retail and restaurants. At its centre sits ‘International Towers Sydney’, three world-class and hundreds of people already working within it. This project outcome is testament to commercial office towers built to accommodate the quality of the construction team, and the strong partnership between Lendlease around 23,000 people. and A.G. Coombs, with leading expertise and innovation applied throughout construction.”

Tom Waters, Construction Manager - Tower Two International Towers Sydney, Lendlease

08 NATIONAL Across Darling Harbour, a major redevelopment Working for construction managers Lendlease, and refurbishment project is creating Australia’s A.G. Coombs delivered mechanical services to INNOVATION largest and first fully integrated convention, the soon-to-be iconic building, with Autodesk® AWARD FOR exhibition and entertainment precinct, to be Revit® software and Trimble technology used known collectively as International Convention to help incorporate services into the building’s PREFABRICATION Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney). Appointed by irregular shape. A.G. Coombs and Lendlease were presented with Darling Harbour Live consortium member and the KONE Award for Innovation at the 2015 national A short distance from ‘Chau Chak’ is UTS’s new construction managers Lendlease, A.G. Coombs Property Council of Australia / Rider Levett Bucknall Thomas Street facility. Constructed by Richard Projects is the mechanical and HVAC services Innovation and Excellence Awards. Crookes Constructions and opened for teaching provider for the redeveloped Convention building The winning submission demonstrated how the in early 2015, the new facility is the base for the large-scale prefabrication of vertical services risers and the new Exhibition and Theatre buildings Faculty of Science and Graduate School of Health. is resetting construction standards at Barangaroo. that make up the complex, with the three being A.G. Coombs delivered HVAC and mechanical Previous methodology required piecemeal installation, delivered simultaneously. services to the building, which features clinical with trades working on cantilevered scaffold over riser The site has a very large 17MW central cooling teaching facilities and a 220-seat “super lab”, voids. This entailed risks from working-at-height (up to 42 storeys at Barangaroo’s Tower Two) and debris plant with multiple chillers in a series counter- together with specialist research facilities and materials from above, along with other risks flow arrangement for energy efficiency and including PC2 containment laboratories. These associated with manual handling and multiple trades. operational reliability. Underfloor displacement demand close temperature and humidity control By prefabricating the risers in 3 storey sections for systems have been chosen to provide optimal and an exceptionally high-level of cleanliness. Tower Two, well in excess of 4,000 hours of complicated comfort conditions for attendees within the The Thomas Street building was the first building site installation were transferred into a controlled theatre type spaces, and passive heat pipe in New South Wales where A.G. Coombs factory environment and the need to work at height technology is used to provide low energy applied its Building Information Management was almost eliminated. This new approach to HVAC and building services installation - not applied before dehumidification for these systems. (BIM) processes to streamline project workflows, to very tall buildings in Australia - significantly reduces from design phase to virtual build and into site Just to the south at the University of Technology construction risk, and improves quality and future installation. This assisted in addressing the Sydney (UTS), the unique Dr Chau Chak Wing maintainability. building’s technical complexities, including an Building has opened its doors to students innovative air conditioning system that integrates and staff from the UTS Business School. a subterranean labyrinth beneath the Alumni The new facility was opened by the Governor Green, where air for the building is pre- General Sir Peter Cosgrove, who stated that conditioned. A.G. Coombs is now providing the $180 million, 12-storey, 16,030 square maintenance services to both facilities. metre building with its remarkable façade is “The most beautiful paper bag he’s ever seen.’’ The scale, innovation and vibrancy of these developments is clear to see and testament to the capabilities of the designers and construction teams who are helping to add even more life to this wonderful harbour side city.

09 NEW PARADIGM AT UQ

At The University of Queensland, a different model is being applied to the way asset management and maintenance services are being delivered; a change that could be beneficial to buildings everywhere.

Ranked 77th in the world’s top 100 universities, Maintenance strategies are developed to The University of Queensland (UQ) is one of optimise system performance over the short, Australia’s leading research and teaching medium and long-term, covering the University’s institutions with over 50,000 students, including diverse installed base of heating, ventilation international students from 140 countries. and air conditioning assets and building Behind the scenes, a performance based, management and controls systems. whole-of-asset-life regime is promising to bring significant improvements to building system The methodology considers each component lifecycles and asset performance. as a part of a larger system and works to ensure that those systems integrate in the best A.G. Coombs has been appointed by UQ to possible way to deliver the best operational plan, manage and deliver whole-of-asset-life and environmental outcomes for the buildings. maintenance services across the University’s To form a solid basis for the new approach, multiple campuses; in excess of 400 buildings. the University’s comprehensive asset register The St Lucia campus comprises 116 multi-purpose was updated and verified by experienced buildings on a site so large that it spans an entire A.G. Coombs technicians who assessed the suburb and even has its own postcode! A number current condition of every system asset, its role of cutting edge educational and research and criticality, and technical particulars using a facilities requiring critically precise HVAC purpose-built A.G. Coombs App to upload conditions are located on this campus, including detailed information. A HVAC lifecycle/ the Australian Institute for Bioengineering & rehabilitation program has been established to Nanotechnology and the Queensland Brain run concurrently with the planned and corrective Institute. Other locations include a 3,000 hectare agriculture focused campus (home to the maintenance activities, to help bring systems to largest veterinary hospital in the southern a common standard, and direct interoperability hemisphere), an inactive mine site, a marine with UQ’s asset management system is allowing studies campus on the Great Barrier Reef, and for the real time communication of all the Herston Campus that includes the new UQ maintenance related activities. Oral Health Centre - the largest Dental Teaching UQ’s Manager Asset Services (Property & facility in the southern hemisphere. Facilities Division), Kevin O’Sullivan, is excited to be on this journey with A.G. Coombs. He said “We are excited to be leveraging A.G. Coombs’ integrated whole-of-life “As a leading research and teaching institution, capability, from advice through to systems maintenance and management UQ’s facilities have been built to perform to a and building tuning, and are looking for their innovative performance based very high standard. Maintaining this standard whole-of-asset-life regime to deliver the required results.” across such an extensive and varied portfolio certainly poses a challenge. Working in very Kevin O’Sullivan, Manager Asset Services (Property & Facilities Division), The University of Queensland close collaboration with A.G. Coombs, we are undertaking a new approach to asset During construction, A.G. Coombs Projects management; one that we hope will result in delivered the mechanical, air conditioning and optimised building performance and sustainable medical gas services along with the Building Information Modelling (BIM) coordination role and resilient facilities across the whole portfolio at this impressive facility. and for the buildings’ lifecycles. We are excited to be leveraging A.G. Coombs’ integrated Taking a systems-based approach to maintenance, whole-of-life capability, from advice through to as opposed to looking at individual assets, the systems maintenance and management and service delivery framework also addresses building tuning, and are looking for their energy usage analysis and optimisation, the innovative performance based whole-of-asset- technical redundancy or obsolescence of aging life regime to deliver the required results.” assets, broader environmental and lifecycle considerations, operational performance, and condition and/or risk-based decision making.

10 SPECIALIST FIRE PROTECTION FOR AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

When you’re manufacturing vehicles for both the local and international markets, and your production processes generate extremely high temperatures, fire protection is paramount. Add that to a multitude of facility types and locations, and thousands of staff, the need for effective fire systems becomes as critical as the facilities themselves.

Over 50 years, Toyota Motor Corporation critical or high risk facilities. With an operating Walker Fire Protection has a long and valued Australia has grown to be one of the country’s pressure of 1.5 MPa, the Altona system relationship with Toyota Australia, with the team leading automotive companies, manufacturing, incorporates a high pressure diesel and electric continually delivering to all of our requirements distributing and exporting vehicles under the pump, which feeds a stainless steel piped system and industry regulations, helping to keep our Toyota and Lexus brands. Its corporate serving special design proprietary nozzles. The facilities safe.” headquarters is located in Port Melbourne, system also features a rupture disc system to Victoria, with manufacturing operations centred help achieve fast response times. in the nearby suburb of Altona. Walker Fire Protection is also currently delivering The fully integrated Altona manufacturing plant fire protection maintenance services to Toyota incorporates state-of-the-art foundry, welding, Australia’s national facilities portfolio across paint and assembly shops to produce cars that Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, South have been independently recognised as Australia’s Australia and the Northern Territory, maintaining, best quality locally built vehicles. Production inspecting and testing the numerous fire systems processes including foundry operations, welding within manufacturing, warehousing and CHANGING and painting produce particular fire risks, calling commercial office facilities to ensure ongoing THE SHAPE OF for specialist fire systems. operational readiness and compliance with INDUSTRY TRAINING

“Walker Fire Protection has a long and valued relationship with Toyota Australia, The new Integrated Technology Hub (ITH) at with the team continually delivering to all of our requirements and industry Melbourne’s Box Hill Institute of TAFE is the first of its kind in Australia, providing collaborative and innovative regulations, helping to keep our facilities safe.” learning spaces for the air conditioning, refrigeration, Kellie Logan, Corporate Property and Asset Protection Manager, Toyota Australia mechanical, plumbing and electrical technologies industries.

Over a number of years, Walker Fire Protection regulations. Access is restricted within many The ITH complements the Institute’s aim to create programs and facilities that match up with industry has carried out various fire protection system of the facilities and thorough planning and requirements; addressing industry trends, new coordination is required to undertake the testing projects at the Altona facility, from large-scale technologies, environmental and sustainability sprinkler and hydrant pipe upgrades within the work. At the Altona manufacturing plant, work considerations and regulatory changes. It was parts storage warehouse, requiring sophisticated is arranged around the tight production designed in collaboration with the Air Conditioning and logistics planning, through to more straightforward schedules, and often carried out during Mechanical Association of Australia (AMCA) and is fire protection and detection systems for office shutdown periods. When working during home to the Refrigeration and Climate Control Centre of Excellence (RCCC), which is providing the main fit-outs. operational times, the Walker Fire Protection team must remain mindful of the site’s industry relevant training and education facilities for The most recent project involved the installation personnel, with the majority of Toyota Australia’s the air conditioning and allied industries. of a specialist water mist fire suppression employees based at the plant. Industry partners, including A.G. Coombs, constructed system to protect the engine assembly and the facility’s modular training PODs (Professional Toyota Australia’s Corporate Property and Asset engine dynamometer testing areas, and the Organisational Development). Each POD contains Protection Manager, Kellie Logan, said “The flexible and accessible ‘real world’ plant and associated fuel supplies. varied operations, controlled environments, equipment that can be re-installed and rearranged, High pressure water mist systems produce fine facility types and locations of Toyota Australia’s and connected to a range of services including power, water droplets and react very quickly to national portfolio demand a flexible fire services compressed air, water and data, to provide students suppress fire spread and protect equipment provider with expertise across a wide range of with hands-on experience using the latest systems. assets. They are particularity suited to highly standard and specialist fire systems.

11 AUSTRALIA’S BROADBAND REVOLUTION

SETTING THE SAFETY STANDARD

Working safely is always important. Working within safety management system to Australian Standard critical facilities, in climates ranging from extreme AS4801:2001, and to SafetyMAP Advanced. summertime ambient temperatures through to freezing A.G. Coombs’ leadership and commitment to safe cold wintry conditions, requires extra attention to safety. working practices has also been acknowledged by JLL A.G. Coombs Group personnel apply high-level safety Project Development Services (JLL PDS) who, in early standards across all sites and ensure adherence 2015, presented the company with an “Innovation in to independently accredited safety processes and Safety Award”, in recognition of A.G. Coombs’ continual procedures, and all state laws and industry regulations, commitment to safety and the high levels of safety that to ensure the safe and reliable delivery of services no are constantly applied across each and every task. matter what the weather. Indeed, the JLL PDS Innovation in Safety Award The ongoing commitment of the A.G. Coombs recognises not only solutions to safety in design issues, Group to best practice Workplace Health and Safety but also delivery techniques that help achieve safe has been reaffirmed by the reaccreditation of its installations within the overall construction program. 12 With the rollout of Australia’s Broadband Network, Australians will have access to fast broadband - which is designed to fuel growth and drive improvements to local economies, businesses and homes, bringing new opportunities to the whole country. As part of the project, nbn has constructed 10 critical satellite ground stations in remote rural locations, with services over the nbn™ network.

The 10 satellite ground stations will help to closely controlled coordination has been crucial These works are typically undertaken in live deliver broadband services to homes and to the success of the projects. operating environments, with no planned or businesses in remote and rural areas. unplanned downtime. New telecommunications Many of the remote locations come with equipment will be installed in these upgraded Cockram Corporation, based in Melbourne, extreme summertime ambient temperatures. exchanges, ready to deliver fast broadband has constructed six of the facilities located in The challenging climates, together with the services to homes and businesses. New South Wales (Bourke, Wolumla, Broken large volume of heat typically generated by high Hill), Queensland (Roma), Tasmania (Geeveston) performance telecommunications equipment, Reg Struwig, Contracts Administrator at Cockram and South Australia (Ceduna), and Perkins (WA) demand ultra reliable, high capacity cooling Corporation, is impressed with A.G. Coombs’ Pty Ltd has delivered the four satellite stations systems. The HVAC systems also feature integrated capability across this project. in Western Australia (Carnarvon, Geraldton, high tech humidification control and spray “We are excited to be working with nbn to help Kalgoorlie and Waroona). mist pre cooling systems for the high ambient deliver fast broadband to Australia’s remote temperatures. A.G. Coombs was engaged to provide HVAC and regional areas. It was important for us to and mechanical services to the six Cockram Smart use of prefabrication strategies was engage a specialist building services provider sites, with Walker Fire Protection installing the important in the efficient delivery of the fire who understands these highly technical, complex fire detection, occupant warning and gaseous protection systems. Many of the pipework sites. With their notable expertise in critical sites suppression systems. Walker Fire Protection systems were prefabricated prior to installation, such as Data Centres, the A.G. Coombs has also delivered these services at the four with off-site construction making for a quicker, Group was best placed to deliver the integrated WA-based stations with Perkins. “It was important for us to engage a specialist building services provider The satellite ground stations are critical who understands these highly technical, complex sites. With their notable telecommunication facilities, essential to the delivery of nbn’s Satellite Service. Each ground expertise in critical sites such as Data Centres, the A.G. Coombs Group was station has two, 13.5 metre satellite dishes. best placed to deliver the integrated mechanical, HVAC and fire detection The majority of stations have on-ground solar and protection services efficiently and safely.” farms, designed to offset the power consumption Reg Struwig, Contracts Administrator, Cockram Corporation of the facilities. The sites are similar to mission Critical Data Centre facilities, requiring highly safer and smoother install, and helping to ensure mechanical, HVAC and fire detection and resilient and redundant power and cooling compliance with all regulatory requirements protection services efficiently and safely. infrastructure to support the reliable operation In addition to the satellite ground stations, The team has significantly contributed of telecommunications equipment. A.G. Coombs has been working with Telstra to towards the project’s successful outcomes.” The remote location of these sites has been upgrade exchanges across Victoria and New a significant challenge. The closest site to the South Wales in preparation for the nbn roll-out. Sydney CBD is Wolumla - a five hour drive away, Capacity of key power and cooling infrastructure and Queensland’s Roma site is a 10 hour drive has been enhanced and systems reaching end- from Brisbane. Carefully planned logistics and of-life have been replaced to improve reliability.

13 KEEPING SCIENCE COOL

Located on the southern shore of Canberra’s Lake Burley Griffin is Questacon, Australia’s National Science and Technology Centre. With more than 200 interactive exhibits relating to science and technology, and many science programs that are devoted to inspiring the children of Australia to love science, its vision is “a better future for all Australians through engagement with science and innovation”.

The name ‘Questacon’ combines two words - (BMCS) and electronic security services to the The existing R22 chillers, which provide cooling ‘quest’ meaning ‘to discover’ and ‘con’ meaning Questacon buildings. A key feature of ITM’s water to the facility, were nearing the end of ‘to study’. methodology is a lifecycle approach to buildings their useful life. Working in conjunction with and system assets and their operation. At A.G. Coombs Projects, ITM organised for the Questacon opened in 1980 and the current Questacon, a holistic review and analysis of the procurement and installation of new energy main exhibition building in Parkes was Japan’s facilities identified a range of improvements to efficient chillers, with the machines successfully gift to Australia for the 1988 Bicentenary. address both aging systems and to enhance the crane-lifted into place and installed and It welcomes over 400,000 visitors per year, effectiveness and energy efficiency of systems. commissioned with minimal disruption houses more than 200 staff, and features eight exhibition galleries and a number of “On Questacon’s 25th birthday, over 26 million people had interacted with our performance spaces. The separate Ian Potter Foundation Technology Learning Centre is programs and exhibitions and we had delivered over 100 million hours of inspiring located in Deakin and houses exhibition storage, science experiences locally, nationally and internationally. We’ve been impressed outreach programs and 80 staff including with ITM’s integrated service offering and their standout technical expertise exhibition developers such as researchers, in managing the building and its systems for ongoing optimal operational designers and technicians. performance, which effectively enables us to remain open and welcome our Behind the scenes, specialists from Integrated thousands of visitors each year.” Matthew Riches, Assistant Manager Operational Support, Questacon Technical Management (ITM), an A.G. Coombs Group company, are supporting the management The Questacon buildings each had their own to the facility, its staff and its visitors. With and operation of these facilities, providing separate lighting control systems. An upgrade the building offering year-round public access, comprehensive mechanical, electrical, fire, involving design, supply, installation, technical works often have to be undertaken outside of Building Management and Controls System support, and on-site programming and operating hours to minimise disruption. commissioning, has seen the two systems Additional improvement projects have included modernised and fully integrated, with all lighting ENVIRONMENTAL the upgrade of exit and emergency lighting, and control now managed through the one central a fire and life safety related project that involved SUSTAINABILITY BMCS. This has led to improved lighting and a review of the building’s fire and smoke INNOVATION energy outcomes and better analysis capability management arrangements, which resulted AWARD and reporting for Questacon. in upgrade works. The A.G. Coombs Group was recognised with More recently, as part of a capital works project, the award for Environmental Sustainability at ITM acted as head contractor to undertake the 2015 JLL Vendor Innovation Awards. a chiller replacement project for the As part of the wider A.G. Coombs Group of Companies, Integrated Technical Management main exhibition building. (ITM) brings together a unique set of technical facilities services capabilities to help with “greening” Australia’s buildings across the building lifecycle. At the ANZ Centre at Melbourne’s Docklands, ITM worked in collaboration with facility managers JLL and tenant ANZ to optimise systems operation and maintain and manage these systems to continuously improve upon the building’s already impressive energy performance ratings. The nominated improvement projects focused on the building’s river water cooling system, Tri-generation system, blackwater system, lighting systems and meeting room air conditioning control – and other ongoing ITM initiatives – which contributed to an annual electricity usage reduction of 377,303kWh and a 9% reduction in total annual Carbon emissions compared to the previous year. 14 CONTEMPORARY SERVICES FOR A HISTORIC SITE

Take one historic harbour side, grand Art Deco building and 4,000 pieces of cutting edge artwork and you’re sure to have complexities and challenges with building services. Helping to preserve the collection and assure the comfort and safety of the hundreds of thousands of visitors each year is just the beginning...

The Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA) boiler. Ultrasonic humidification and reverse providing design and technical support, is Australia’s leading gallery dedicated to osmosis plant is used to control humidity levels, alterations were made to the air conditioning exhibiting, interpreting and collecting contemporary and the installation of ultraviolet lights within supply air arrangements to prevent the fog art from across Australia and around the world. air handling units results in cleaner coils, energy escaping from the temporary gallery spaces, Located on the western side of Sydney’s historic reduction and helps minimise contaminants whilst also maintaining temperature control. Circular Quay, it features three floors of exhibition within the air plenums. An Energy Management Variable exhaust air flows were provided to cater space and a major national resource for education System is used to control and monitor the for viewing times when the fog needed to be and interpretative programs with the National plant, and remote monitoring provides quick motionless, and for the end-of-day purge of the Centre for Creative Learning that includes a turnaround for the facility to diagnose and spaces. Particular effort was required to ensure library, digital and multimedia studios and resolve issues before further problems arise. temporary ductwork and fans were concealed seminar and lecture facilities. from public view.

The MCA first opened its doors in November “A.G. Coombs has brought the The MCA is also one of Sydney’s premier function 1991 and has over 4,000 works of Australian technical capability required to and event venues with four dedicated event and international modern art in its collection, maintain the Museum’s HVAC spaces available for hire, and these offer their including a special Indigenous collection that is own challenges from a HVAC perspective. being held in trust for the people of Maningrida systems, to help preserve the on a long-term basis under a unique cultural collection and assure visitor comfort Dermot Rodwell, Building Services Manager agreement. All artwork relies on specific and safety. At MCA they have at MCA, is impressed with A.G. Coombs’ temperature and humidity conditions for expertise. applied this expertise and shown a preservation purposes. willingness to go above and beyond, “Supporting such a complex and dynamic A.G. Coombs was appointed by the MCA to facility brings its complexities. A.G. Coombs delivering atypical services to meet the deliver specialist maintenance for the building’s has brought the specialist technical capability HVAC and energy systems. This includes Museum’s specialist requirements.” required to maintain the Museum’s HVAC preventative maintenance, works and repairs, Dermot Rodwell, Building Services Manager, systems, to help preserve the collection and inspection and testing, along with annual Museum of Contemporary Art assure visitor comfort and safety. They have system condition reporting and Certification extensive experience of working in critical of Essential Services. Special exhibitions also bring their own challenges. environments, as demonstrated through their The MCA incorporates a number of specialist The temporary exhibition, “Lightshow”, was work with other galleries and the State Libraries energy systems including a seawater heat shown exclusively in Australia at the MCA. in Victoria and New South Wales. At MCA rejection plant to and from the adjacent Sydney It required a fog and light show and involved they have applied this expertise and shown a Harbour to help cool the facility. An intricate A.G. Coombs delivering a short-term exhaust willingness to go above and beyond, delivering heat reclaim system recovers heat energy from ventilation solution to suit the exhibition atypical services to meet the Museum’s the chillers, eliminating the need for a HVAC requirements. With A.G. Coombs Advisory specialist requirements.”

15 In 1945, following the end of the Second World War and at a time of great opportunity, one man set off on his pushbike with a vision; a vision to create and build his own plumbing business. That man was Allan George Coombs. 70 years on, A.G. Coombs has grown to become one of Australia’s leading building services companies.

Looking back in history, it is often those with a clear purpose in life who manage to attain their goals and realise their ambition.

Allan George Coombs was a resourceful, ambitious man, regarded by his friends and colleagues as being influential and determined with a strong ‘can do’ attitude.

Following the war, Allan was eager to capitalise on the work being generated by post-war construction and new housing developments. He purchased an Austin utility truck, appointed his first apprentice and built a garage and workshop in the backyard of his brother’s home.

A SINGULAR VISION

After outgrowing this space - and with his Between 1955 and 1963, A.G. Coombs installed 120 Collins Street, the John Gorton Building, workload rapidly increasing - he purchased land the air conditioning and mechanical services at the ANZ Centre, the new Royal Children’s in Moorabbin and, by 1953, had built a factory the former Royal Children’s Hospital complex Hospital, Hamer Hall, The University of and office in an area that was then just open in Melbourne. Dame Elisabeth Murdoch, Queensland’s Oral Health Centre, the new paddocks. A man of vision, he also established the hospital’s president, had led a spirited Bendigo Hospital and Barangaroo South. fundraising campaign to build the hospital, on-site manufacturing facilities to produce while Queen Elizabeth II opened the facility in Today, A.G. Coombs is a national business ductwork and other sheet metal products. February 1963. The project was recognised employing over 570 people in Melbourne, A.G. Coombs’ first big break came when it at the time as Australia’s largest mechanical Canberra, Sydney and Brisbane. Having survived was contracted to install the plumbing at the services contract. major recessions and undertaken extensive Olympic Village in the lead up to the 1956 With its reputation for technical excellence, restructuring, the company has evolved from Olympic Games in Melbourne. Soon after, A.G. Coombs has gone on to air condition and a single-service contractor into a multi-service Allan repositioned his business to focus on install the services in prominent facilities such business providing clients with a whole-of-life commercial air conditioning, which was being as Wrest Point Casino, , the Walter service encompassing technical advice, design, more widely introduced throughout Australia. and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, engineering and manufacturing.

16 “The A.G. Coombs name stands for something in today’s industry; a standard of service built on dedication, professionalism, teamwork and innovation. Our culture is the glue that binds the organisation together, and our core values are at the heart of A.G. Coombs’ national operation.”

Russell Telford, Managing Director, A.G. Coombs

This includes installation, commissioning, Russell Telford has been Managing Director maintenance and management of a wide range of the A.G. Coombs Group for over 14 years. of services in award-winning, energy efficient He joined the company in 1988 as a site foreman, buildings. working his way up to senior management roles.

A.G. Coombs also continues to be an influential Reflecting on the success of the company, he said industry leader, aiding the transition from “The A.G. Coombs name stands for something in drawing boards and site plans to the current today’s industry; a standard of service built on use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) dedication, professionalism, teamwork and and 3D digital technology in building design innovation. Our culture is the glue that binds the and construction. And its prefabrication organisation together, and our core values are methodologies are helping to reset safety at the heart of A.G. Coombs’ national operation.” standards across numerous major construction sites, with the innovation set to become an The innovative, forward thinking spirit and industry standard in Australia. attitude of A.G. Coombs has seen the company An anniversary publication, “A Singular Vision - grow from a singular vision into the new Over the years, the company has garnered The A.G. Coombs Story - Celebrating 70 Years”, generation of building services experts. multiple awards for its safety initiatives and was published in 2015, documenting the history performance as an employer and innovator, It is a journey and vision that started in 1945, of A.G. Coombs as well as the introduction of demonstrated in part by the 130 plus employee and that continues today. air conditioning to Australia. names that feature on the company’s 21-year- service board, which proudly hangs in the reception of its Moorabbin-based headquarters.

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