ISSUE 7 SPRING 2010

infrastructure.sa.gov.au

pride of the north

Traffic is flowing on the nation’s newest and smoothest freeway, the , months ahead of schedule.

The Northern Expressway is the largest South Australian road project of the past 50 years. It is now taking around 20 minutes off a trip inside this issue from the Barossa to or the Port by linking the Sturt Highway with Port Wakefield > rail electrification Road and the Port River Expressway. > new royal adelaide hospital Project Director Luigi Rossi said the sheer size and scale of the project gave the opening > state aquatic centre celebration, attended by several thousand people, > south road superway extra meaning and value for the local community. > sturt highway “The locals have been remarkably patient and understanding while we have delivered this new > rail revitalisation expressway – I thank them for their support during > seaford rail extension the past few years,” he said. > gp plus

> Riders sample ’s smoothest road. continued page 12

www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au Spring 2010 1 sturt highway by Hook contents upgrade p15

When we put rail revitalisation together the very p16-17 first edition ofNew gawler Connections more than two years ago, the focus was very much gp plus on transport and p18 elizabeth the unprecedented northern delivery of major p12-13 road projects expressway around Adelaide. gp plus dry creek p18 modbury Since then we have broadened our focus to include rail car depot p4 significant developments within Adelaide’s public transport network. Now, investment in infrastructure continues coast to coast to boom creating a genuine buzz and sense light rail p6 of positive evolution about our city. south road And so we too are evolving. p14 superway New Connections will continue to provide electrification p3 you with all the information you need about new royal what’s happening in your neighbourhood. p5 glenelg tram adelaide hospital But, in this edition, you’ll also be given a first overpass p19 hand look at how both infrastructure and gp plus transport developments help provide services p10-11 marion vital to the everyday lives of more than a million state aquatic South Australians. centre p10-11 Specifically, you’ll see how our work in the transport p8 flinders medical centre sector complements what is being done by our redevelopment counterparts in health and community services. glengowrie tram depot p18 We are already seeing the fruits of that integration southern expressway and forward-planning with the recently extended p9 duplication tramline now running right past the future front rail revitalisation door of a brand new Royal Adelaide Hospital. noarlunga p9,16-17 There promises to be plenty more equally strategic strategic infrastructure plan and exciting stops along the way. gp plus > Develop and deepen Outer Harbor and substantially I look forward to continuing the journey with you. p8 noarlunga improve infrastructure at the Port of Adelaide.

> Improve the north-south corridor. Rod Hook seaford Executive Director rail extension p7 > Develop and maintain regional freight networks. Office of Major Projects and Infrastructure > Increase use of public transport. planning a better future

Here’s your chance to get involved in planning a better future for the state because ’s Strategic Plan is to be updated.

Chair of the Community Engagement Board, This next update will make sure the plan Peter Blacker says the plan draws together still reflects our collective aspirations for our hopes and aspirations. the next decade and beyond. “South Australia is a great place to live, but we Now is your chance to contribute to can always improve, we can always get better,” South Australia’s future – we have so many he said. different and fun ways you can get involved. “Now’s the time to revisit the plan and we’re Get involved by: undertaking the broadest consultation process yet – • visiting www.saplan.org.au and check out with thousands of South Australians getting involved. when the consultation sessions are running “We want to hear from you about where you’d • joining us on facebook: like SA to go – and your contribution will be www.facebook.com/YourFutureSA part of the planning process. • catching up on Twitter: “You can comment on areas that interest you, www.twitter.com/YourFutureSA such as health, education, training, business, • checking out our images on Flickr: the economy or the environment.” www.flickr.com/photos/YourFutureSA The inaugural plan was launched in March 2004 • having a say on YouTube: and the last time it was updated was 2006. www.youtube.com/YourFutureSA > Public transport is a key element of the strategic plan.

2 Spring 2010 faster more frequent greener more efficient an electric atmosphere

> Electric trains will run in Adelaide in 2013. Concept image for illustrative purposes only. Adelaide is the only mainland capital city in Australia still operating exclusively with diesel trains, but times are changing. It’s the centrepiece of a massive overhaul of bit like restoring a vintage motor car,” he said. Electrification of the network will begin in earnest next year with planning and contractual work suburban train operations, but just how will “The track upgrades are underway – that’s not already in progress. Adelaide’s railway lines be electrified and what will unlike putting a new set of tyres on the car – this $400 million plus undertaking deliver for you? it’s a necessary first step. A comprehensive community engagement program will be undertaken as part of the Put simply, electrification will see construction of an “But specifically electrification is effectively overall electrification project. overhead wiring system along Adelaide’s rail corridors installing the new engine.” used to power brand new electric railcars. Construction will be staged, beginning with the And it’s that new engine that will deliver Noarlunga and Gawler lines where the first electric But the construction task isn’t limited to the installation a host of benefits to public transport customers, trains will run in 2013 and continuing to the Outer of poles and wires, it also covers the intricate residents in the vicinity of rail corridors and Harbor line where new trains will run in 2015. and essential work to ensure the new system’s the broader community. compatibility with existing infrastructure. With the delivery of new railcars and track upgrades, Work will be undertaken to build new substations, the electrified network provides a platform for faster, provide connections to the power grid and, more frequent and more efficient train services. importantly, implement a host of safety measures. It delivers environmental benefits, such as reduced It’s already been described as arguably the noise and local air pollution, through the elimination most complex transport project ever undertaken of exhaust fumes, while electric trains are cheaper electrification in South Australia. to purchase and have lower operational and As Project Director Tim Warren explains, unlike maintenance costs. many major road projects the team responsible “Electrification is the integrator project – we quite for electrifying the rail network doesn’t have literally have to make sure everything we do will what’s happened the luxury of a blank canvas. fit with both the existing network and any new > Expressions of interest issued to design “I guess in some ways what we are doing is a infrastructure.” and construction consortia for major works late 2009. working with the community > Three consortia shortlisted early 2010. Electrification of our rail lines is a project that is significant for a what’s next broad spectrum of people across Adelaide – not just the thousands of commuters who use rail lines each day. > Major works package tenders close late 2010. > Traction power tenders close late 2010.

Project Director, Tim Warren is keen that nearby “It will also be a catalyst for urban regeneration > Major site work second half of 2011. property owners and the many people who along the rejuvenated corridors. may have opportunities to work directly “We want to get people involved and make sure or indirectly in the project delivery are aware everyone knows what is happening, so we’ll fast facts of rail electrification activities. be increasing our distribution of information about “This promises to be a very exciting and rewarding the project in the near future.” > More than 100 km of track will be electrified. project and one that will usher in a new era for The project team will provide updates on project > Electric trains are quieter than the diesel rail in Adelaide,” he said. progress and information on key aspects and models currently in service. areas of interest to the community. “It’s a project for the whole of Adelaide in the sense > Overhead wires will carry 25,000 volts that it brings our rail system up to a world-standard “We’ll explain how anyone can get further of electricity. quality and may attract people to public transport information and, importantly, how feedback > Screening will be installed at all bridges who have never considered it before. can be provided to the project team.” and pedestrian overpasses.

delivering our transport future now www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au Spring 2010 3 rail switch clears dry creek railcar depot health home what’s happened The process to purchase 66 new electric Work on the brand new state-of- > Testing and commissioning of depot trains to be maintained at the facility is the-art Railcar Depot at Dry Creek facilities, including the train wash already underway. and train lift, began in August and is nearing completion, clearing the The Dry Creek facility replaces the existing will continue over the coming months. way for the North Terrace railyard rail yards on North Terrace – the future home > Complex new signalling systems site to become the centrepiece of of the new Royal Adelaide Hospital and installation work is underway. South Australia’s health network. medical research facility. When the new depot opens, the old depot The new depot will be a permanent at North Terrace will be demolished early what’s next home for the city’s trains and the heartbeat in the New Year so that construction on the > Construction and commissioning of the new of the brand new electrified rail network. brand new hospital can start in March 2011. depot is due to be finished by the end of 2010 to allow the transition of the workforce to the new site and the demolition of the old depot to then proceed. fast facts When complete the Dry Creek site will feature: > more than eight kilometres of railway track > the capacity to stable up to 70 railcars > eight buildings covering more than 15,000 square metres for workshops and administration > an automated railcar wash > interior cleaning platform > refuelling and storage facilities. > Trains have begun arriving at the new Dry Creek headquarters. avante garde research hub

> Medical researchers will collaborate in world-class facilities. Image for illustrative purposes only. In the new hospital precinct, co-located with the new Royal Adelaide Hospital, will be a cutting-edge health and medical research facility that attracts the best researchers from across the globe to Adelaide.

Site works have already started on the The 25,000 square metre facility will feature fully- It will be a modern and proud icon of South Australian Government funded $200m South flexible space to the highest laboratory standard. Australian science, promoting international Australian Health and Medical Research The building will be world-class encouraging research and providing 21st century Institute, which is expected to be complete research collaboration through innovative design facilities for the next generation of health by the end of 2012. and delivering a number of ‘green’ design features. and medical researchers.

4 Spring 2010 faster more frequent greener more efficient > The new Royal Adelaide Hospital will have easy access to public transport for patients and staff alike. healthy progress new royal adelaide hospital Planning and site preparation are well advanced for the new $1.7 billion state-of-the-art Royal Adelaide Hospital to be built on the existing rail yard, alongside the recently extended tramline on North Terrace. what’s happened Executive Director, Statewide Service Strategy, health and medical research facility. > Project planning and procurement David Panter said it’s a dream location for “This means theory and practice will work of the new hospital. a city-based hospital with such easy access side-by-side – creating a healthier future > Site preparation. to trains, trams and buses coming from all for South Australians.” over the metropolitan area. > Begun SA Health and Medical Research Construction of the hospital is due to start in Institute construction. “The tram running past the front door is definitely a 2011 and it is set to make a huge contribution bonus for what is going to be a hospital of the future towards rejuvenation of the city’s west end and - a model for the best practice in patient care from provide new cultural and public spaces with its expected opening date in 2016,” he said. links to surrounding parklands. what’s next

“The new Royal Adelaide Hospital will be one of The final bids to finance, build and maintain the > Relocation and rehabilitation of rail yards. Australia’s most ecologically sustainable hospitals new Royal Adelaide Hospital have been received > Appointment of private sector partner. and will be co-located with a new $200 million and are now being evaluated. > Construction to start in 2011.

fast facts

The new Royal Adelaide Hospital will have: > more than 80,000 same day and overnight admissions per year > 800 beds (including 100 same day) > an ambulatory care centre > more operating theatres > all clinical and non-clinical support services > a facility for teaching and research.

> The soon to be cleared site of the new Royal Adelaide Hospital.

delivering our transport future now www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au Spring 2010 5 coast to coast light rail park‘n’ride free for all an instant hit Tram travel between the Adelaide Entertainment Centre and the city is to remain free – permanently.

Tram users can travel free between South Terrace and the Entertainment Centre – a distance of some 5.7 kilometres. Total patronage on the entire tram line has grown by 55 per cent, based on patronage figures from July this year compared to July 2009. It is estimated around 2,000 people a day board trams to and from the Adelaide Entertainment Centre.

> The shared-use path adjacent the tramline extension has proved an instant hit. extension gives back to parklands Thousands of square metres of prime green space initially > The tramline extension has enjoyed great support from customers. earmarked for the tramline extension will now be The Adelaide Entertainment Centre park‘n’ride has been embraced returned to parklands. by commuters looking for a relaxing way to get to work in the CBD.

Originally, some 22,000 square metres of parkland was approved for use on the Every weekday sees hundreds of vehicles using “We’ve further enhanced those benefits by recently project however, strategic design and efforts the facility and enjoy cheap parking and a free opening a shared use bike and pedestrian pathway to minimise the impact on parklands meant ride to town on the already iconic tram line direct within Bonython Park. about 35 percent of this land was used. to the city centre. “So you can now park your car at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre and walk or ride to the city In addition, Bonython Park is now the new Tramline extension Project Director, Manuel Delgado centre on a dedicated path.” home of the Gift of Life Garden, a renewed said it’s pleasing to see people responding so and reflective space to honour the generosity positively to Adelaide’s newest public transport link. The shared use path was opened officially on of organ donors and their families. It was “Trams are such a popular form of public transport 29 August 2010 creating another section of developed together with DonateLife and across the globe and this new link is no different, sustainable and green infrastructure in Adelaide. donor family representatives. performing remarkably well during its first few The new boulevard along Port Road includes mass It’s another example of how taking a months of operation,” he said. plantings of new trees, shrubs and grasses and ‘green’ approach to building infrastructure “The combination of a park‘n’ride and the new tram energy-saving LED lighting along its length. can benefit the community in more ways service has taken hundreds of cars off the road Plans are in place to extend the tramline further than just providing public transport. every day – delivering convenience and a host of to Port Adelaide, West Lakes and Semaphore in associated environmental benefits.” between the period 2015/16 to 2018/19.

6 Spring 2010 faster more frequent greener more efficient get involved The Seaford Rail Extension team, in conjunction with the Industry Capability Network, has set up an on-line register for interested businesses or organisations. The register will record the full details of each company and the products or services they provide. This register will be made available to the successful contractor for the Seaford Rail Extension. Interested businesses or organisations can register online at www.seafordrailextension.icn.org.au

> Residents of Adelaide’s south will benefit significantly from unprecedented investment in rail. smooth sailing seaford rail extension at seaford what’s happened

The $291 million Seaford Rail Extension is accelerating ahead > Comprehensive vegetation survey. with major works expected to start well before the end of the year. > Pre-construction water quality monitoring in the Onkaparinga River. Works on the Goldsmith Drive bridge and the “Over the life of this project we’re expecting > Concrete sleepers delivered. major drainage system between Lynton Terrace to create more than 400 jobs. > Early works complete. and Seaford Road are now complete and the “The project has a focus on engaging trainees and > Site compound established. next major milestone is the award of the main apprentices, Aboriginal people, people looking to contract for design and construction. upskill and local people with barriers to employment. Project Director David Bartlett said construction what’s next of the bridge at Goldsmith Drive allows the “They will all help deliver the Seaford Rail Extension 5.7 kilometre extended railway line to be built in a way that can add real value to the community > Finalise design. in the southern suburbs.” underneath without disruption to local traffic. > Commence major construction. “Traffic started flowing on the new Goldsmith Register your interest to take part in this exciting > Community engagement about final design Drive Road Bridge in mid-August, which means project via the City of Onkaparinga, the Industry and construction. we can get on with the job of building new rail Capability Network (see breakout article), tracks beneath it as soon as the contract Department of Further Education, Employment, is awarded,” he said. Science and Technology, or local employment fast facts “We’re keen to limit the impact of construction on agencies. Further information is available from > Approximately 24,000 concrete sleepers the community, while at the same time undertaking www.infrastrucutre.sa.gov.au a rigorous work schedule to finish this project will be used on the extended line. on-time and on-budget. Passenger services on the extended line to > Travel time will be reduced by up to Seaford are expected to start in 2013, following 10 minutes on a trip to Adelaide. “The design and construction contract will be electrification of the Noarlunga line. awarded soon and major works will naturally follow that milestone. delivering our transport future now www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au Spring 2010 7 centre of attention Flinders Medical Centre is undergoing a $163 million transformation to make it into a larger, greener, more efficient and more flexible hospital than ever before.

Interim Director, Support Services Brendan Hewitt This new south wing will be home to medical The 580 bed hospital is the major referral centre said watching the medical centre transform before consulting clinics, a new labour and delivery ward, for acute care and emergency services in the his eyes is a fantastic sight. and an obstetrics and gynaecology ward. southern region of Adelaide. It is one of two major trauma centres in South Australia providing an “When it comes to patient and staff care there is nothing The redevelopment will include an expanded around the clock emergency retrieval service. better than being given the resources and opportunity emergency department and an operating theatre suite. to turn a good hospital into a great hospital,” he said. “There has been some disruption for patients, After the redevelopment is complete it will form part The newly-completed three-storey wing is the staff and volunteers during construction,” he said of the backbone of hospital care in South Australia and ensure the south continues to have access centrepiece of the $163 million redevelopment “I thank them for their understanding and and entrenches Flinders as the flagship hospital cooperation while we progress some great to world-class hospital services well into the future. for southern Adelaide. improvements to patient care and facilities.”

flinder’s medical redevelopment

what’s happened

> Construction of a new, relocated Coronary Care Unit.

> Building works for the proposed 30-bed Acute Medical Unit.

> The Intensive and Critical Care Unit extension.

> Demolition work for the redevelopment > Work is progressing on the Flinders Medical Centre redevelopment. of operating theatres. flinders goesgreen what’s next > The western extension of the The Flinders Medical Centre redevelopment is greening up the Emergency Department.

hospital by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, energy costs > Second stage of the Emergency and water consumption. Department redevelopment. Rainwater harvesting and collection of waste The big ticket item in the upgrade is a water for use in toilets will contribute to a reduction 286 solar panel system, the largest solar hot of more than 60 million litres of water each year. water system in South Australia, providing In addition, $50 million is being spent on airconditioning, fast facts hot water across the entire Flinders campus. electrical, water, medical gas and life safety systems. The Flinders Medical Centre redevelopment will include: > an expanded and extensively redeveloped Emergency Department, southern gp plus super clinic including 21 additional treatment cubicles > development of a new Acute A GP Plus Super Clinic will a 237 place car park on the vacant land opposite Medical Unit, located adjacent to the be located within the Noarlunga Noarlunga Hospital – opening in November 2010. Emergency Department Hospital and Health Village Stage two is a 3,000 square metre, two storey > an expanded Intensive and Critical precinct on Alexandra Kelly Drive. building providing a range of public and private Care Unit health services. They include general practice, > new state-of-the-art operating theatres The first stage of the development is construction specialist medical and allied health, mental health, of a single storey 500 square metre building that early childhood, sexual health, dental, Aboriginal > a new Day Surgery Unit including will offer a range of primary health care services, health and pathology collection. It’s expected a second stage recovery area. including specific services for Aboriginal people and to open in late 2011.

8 Spring 2010 faster more frequent greener more efficient rail revitalisation noarlunga

Hallett Cove Station, one of the first new look railway stations being rolled out across Adelaide, re-opened to the public on Sunday 29 August 2010.

Customers returning to the re-opened station are experiencing better accessibility, safety, security, comfort and amenity all-round. The station has a new architecturally-designed canopy shelter to protect customers from the weather. It features new platforms with access ramps and handrails, improved lighting, a Closed Circuit Television security systemand additional car parking on site. Hallett Cove Beach station was next in line for a significant upgrade and was closed on Sunday 29 August 2010 to undergo similar works. stellar station

> Hallett Cove Station is one of many stations being redeveloped across Adelaide.

southern expressway

what’s happened

> Planning study contract awarded. > Concept image of a duplicated expressway for illustrative purposes only. > Jobs taskforce established.

on the drawing board what’s next

The days of Adelaide’s one-way Southern Expressway are numbered > Start extensive community following the awarding of a contract for a detailed planning study engagement process. to duplicate the carriageway and associated infrastructure. > Determine alignment. > Environmental Impact Assessment. Parsons Brinckerhoff in association issues such as noise, flora and fauna, with Wallbridge and Gilbert will work with air and water quality and Aboriginal heritage. > Detailed design work. the department to formalise the alignment Interchanges will be built at the southern and of the duplicated expressway and address northern extents of the project with additional environmental issues. ramps added to a number of existing interchanges. fast facts Project Director, Lou George said the progress The project will provide substantial employment > 18.5 km of roadway will be to detailed planning represents a significant and business opportunities for the southern milestone in the life of the project. suburbs, particularly when the project enters constructed on the western side “In the first half of next year, we will have a good the construction phase in late 2011. of the existing expressway. picture of what the alignment for the expressway When travelling on the non-stop duplicated > Construction starts in late 2011 and interchanges look like and how they can best Southern Expressway, the travel time saving will and is scheduled for completion serve the needs of future users,” he said. be an estimated 13 minutes – when compared to by mid 2014. The planning team will consider environmental Main South Road with 16 signalised intersections.

delivering our transport future now www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au Spring 2010 9 > A concept image of the interior of the new State Aquatic Centre.

That’s why new GP Plus Health Care Centres having the services in place and ready and GP Plus Super Clinics are being built to deal with people when they need it and where across South Australia and at several locations they need it,” he said. in Adelaide – such as Noarlunga, Modbury, A-plus Marion and Elizabeth. “They’ll provide a broad range of services available including health promotions, disease General Manager, Primary and Sub Acute, Chris prevention, early-intervention, treatment and Seiboth said the new health care centres and clinics Put simply, it makes sense. specialist medical services.” will cater for families and clients with easy access The best of health care should to a wide range of services. 36 GP Super Clinics will be established around be located right in the heart of “Getting good health care should not be hard – that’s the nation over the next five years at a cost the communities that need it. why these clinics and health care centres are about of $275.2 million.

> The Marion Domain will be a health and fitness hub for Adelaide. Image for illustrative purposes only.

10 Spring 2010 faster more frequent greener more efficient state aquatic centre & gp plus

what’s happened

> Aquatic Centre roofing installation underway. going for good health > Structural steelwork erection nearing completion. The brand new State Aquatic Centre and GP Plus Health Care Centre > Fit out of the GP Plus Health Care at Marion are rapidly taking shape with the new facilities expected to Centre underway. open early next year. what’s next

> Installation of main pool wall panels. > Filling competition, dive and waterpolo pools. > Completion of water slides.

fast facts

> The GP Plus Health Care Centre has 7,500 square metres in floor area spread over four levels. > State Aquatic Centre floor plan – diagram for illustrative purposes only. > The State Aquatic Centre building will have a footprint of approximately 10,000 square Project Director Steve Woodrow said it will be The Marion Domain site will also see the metres and will be 15 metres high. It will a world-class sport and health-hub that allows development of Adelaide’s first new Community provide all-year round aquatic facilities for people to get fit by exercise or keep well by visiting Mental Health Centre to be co-located within the community, athletes and major events. a health centre all at the same convenient location. the GP Plus Health Care Centre. > Over 560 car parks will be provided across “The State Aquatic Centre will be FINA compliant and The State Aquatic Centre will be operational in early the site in an under croft and in the multi-deck capable of hosting major state, national and selected 2011 and has already been successful in attracting car park as well as on ground level. international aquatic events,” he said. a number of major events, including the 2011 > The State Aquatic Centre includes Australian Age Swimming Championships, 2012 The GP Plus Health Care Centre will offer a broad over 1,000 square metres of recreational World Life Saving Championships and the 2012 range of health care services to the community water to meet the varied needs World Junior Diving Championships. with a range of professionals working together of swimmers of all ages. to help people stay healthy. For general enquiries, please call 1300 653 680

delivering our transport future now www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au Spring 2010 11 battles MALLALA RD honoured

GAWLER Five bridges along the Northern Adelaide BYPASS Expressway have been named Soaring Club Gawler in honour of some of Australia’s most famous military battles.

Hamel, Tobruk, Kakoda, Kapyong and Long Tan are sacred places for all Australians, having once shaped the long tan bridge TWO WELLS ROAD very future of our nation they remain etched in our history forever. It’s for that reason South Australia has paid its own tribute to the service and sacrifice made in these theatres of war by naming five fantastic

new pieces of infrastructure in their honour. MAIN NTH RD NTH MAIN The French town of Hamel was the site ALE RD of a significant Allied gain during Word War I while Tobruk and Kakoda represented triumph kapyong bridge ANGLE V and tragedy for Australia during World War II. Kapyong was the site of a fierce battle Munno Para during the Korean War, while near the Downs village of Long Tan, during the Vietnam War, 108 Australian and New Zealand soldiers fought more than 2,000 enemy troops. The named bridges are Hamel Bridge (Penfield Road), Tobruk Bridge (Heaslip Road), Kokoda Bridge (Curtis Road), Kapyong kokoda bridge Bridge (Angle Vale Road) and Long Tan CURTIS RD Bridge (Two Wells Road). The Veterans’ Advisory Council, including MacDonald Park the Returned and Services League were closely consulted in selecting the names. Each bridge will feature interpretive signs to help people to learn more about the battles.

HEASLIP RD HEASLIP

tobrukWOMMA bridge RD

WOMMA RD

hamel bridge PENFIELD RD Edinburgh

port wakefield interchange International Raceway

> Public art was part of the Northern Expressway project.

12 Spring 2010 faster more frequent greener more efficient pride of the north

northern expressway

continued from page 1 Other activities included: what’s happened “Now the expressway is open, the considerable • planting trees at the Curtis Road Interchange > The Northern Expressway was opened benefits of easy, safe and quick access to the • colourful fun for children with free face painting, to traffic on September 13. northern regions of our state will be felt by many – glitter artists, a balloonist and jumping castles > Thanks to generous sponsors, a community with opportunities for social and economic • defence and emergency services exhibitions celebration was held on September 12 investment opened up as well.” • vehicle rescue demonstrations to celebrate the opening. A community day was held on Sunday, September 12 to celebrate the many successes of this project. On • cooking demonstrations. the day, among the headline acts was a 47 kilometre The free guided coach tours from the Northern fast facts cycle race on Australia’s smoothest new road. Expressway to display homes at Playford Alive The Northern Expressway is: A community ride was also held for a gold coin were a popular part of the celebration. It showcased > already saving commuters up to 20 minutes donation, with all donations going towards junior how infrastructure investment and development > a new four-lane, divided roadway cycling development. supports local and surrounding communities. > full-speed connection linking with the > The first traffic flows along Australia’s smoothest road. Gawler Bypass > entry to the expressway via interchanges > overpasses along the length of the expressway > changes to the local road network > a recreational cycle and pedestrian pathway > an upgrade of Port Wakefield Road.

> Northern Expressway takes the cake.

delivering our transport future now www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au Spring 2010 13 south road superway

what’s happened

> Talked and listened to business, community and government stakeholders to better understand the area and identify key vehicle access routes and freight movements. > Completed the planning study with the release of the South Road Superway Project > Preliminary work on the South Road Superway is well advanced. Impact Report Supplement and hosted community information days. > Developed a concept design for local road network improvements plus awarded the contract and started these upgrades. laying super > Identified the depth of services like water, communications and gas along South Road and tested foundation pile types. foundations what’s next The surrounds of the future South Road Superway, the most complex > Award the South Road Superway design road project ever undertaken in South Australia, are a hive of activity. and construction contract.

Preliminary work continues across the project In the coming months, the site will be prepared > Complete the $30 million local road upgrades. area with roadworks on an alternate north-south by making best use of damp winter soils minimising > Start pre-construction activities including link between Grand Junction Road and Regency dust to neighbouring properties. service relocations along South Road Road and vital service relocation work (electricity, and Grand Junction Road. Nearby the project site office at Grand Junction water, sewerage, gas and communications) Road, Angle Park will, at its peak, be the workplace underway. for around 300 people ranging from road and bridge Simultaneously, the project team is assessing two designers to local employment coordinators and fast facts tender submissions for the contract to design and environmental experts. build the superway proper - expected to be awarded > The elevated roadway will make road and During the coming months, temporary offices will be later this year. rail freight transport as well as commuter erected on site with people due to arrive later this year. travel safer in the area that is home to Keeping traffic moving when major construction Project Director, Luigi Rossi said he was looking around 25 per cent of the state’s industry. work gets underway on South Road next year is forward to the establishment of project headquarters. being addressed by both the local road network > The $812 million South Road Superway transformation and a commitment that two lanes “This is such an exciting civil works project. When project – the second of the north-south on South Road remain open during peak times completed it will save time and money for industry corridor upgrade – is South Australia’s most throughout construction of the elevated roadway. as well as make road and rail freight transport safer complex infrastructure project and the state’s in this area,” he said. largest single infrastructure investment. The local road upgrades, designed with land owner and business operator input to ensure “With a concentration of the state’s industry based minimal disruption to the commercial and industrial in this area and with most export products passing > Workers preparing for the superway. businesses within the region, will be finished through to get to customers interstate or overseas, later this year, weather permitting. keeping disruptions to a minimum during construction Mick Mason, Operations Manager at local is critical. business Rand Refrigerated Logistics said being “Investing in this piece of infrastructure now kept fully informed of the work program has been will attract additional industries to this region including a significant bonus. those aligned with the air warfare destroyer and “We can live with the road works as you do the naval ship activities, cast metals, waste resource upgrades, that’s fine,” he said. recovery, horticulture, automotive, technology and general manufacturing. “What’s good is people making the time and effort to come out here in person and tell us about what’s “This project also complements new infrastructure like going on – it’s great.” the Port River Expressway and all of South Australia’s industry shifting exportable goods out of Adelaide will Meantime, construction of the South Road Superway benefit from the efficiencies this project will deliver.” will, in part, require the manufacture of large concrete segments. South Road is the only continuous link between the northern and southern suburbs as well as the spine Lot 201 South Road, Angle Park, is where the that connects Adelaide’s major inter-modal transport segments will be cast and stored. It is an ideal location, near to the alignment with direct access hubs – Adelaide Airport, Islington Rail Terminal Port to South Road ensuring great efficiency, particularly Adelaide and Outer Harbour. when transporting these items.

14 Spring 2010 faster more frequent greener more efficient double delight

> A four year program to upgrade Sturt Highway is complete.

A four-year program to duplicate the Sturt Highway between Gawler and Greenock, making it safer for all motorists, is now substantially complete. yamba Duplication of the final 3.5 kilometre section approximately 50 hectares of revegetation, including between Seppeltsfield Road and Greenock Road the planting of over 10,000 trees. was opened to traffic in early October 2010. In addition, other safety improvement works have gets a rest Landscaping activities are continuing and additional been undertaken including: road surfacing is scheduled to be laid late this year • extensions to an overtaking lane near Moppa Road when the weather is more suitable. A new rest area, quarantine • realigning the Belvidere Road junction to improve and weigh station is being As the principal road between Adelaide and the sight distance Riverland and part of the Australia’s National Land built on the Sturt Highway • widening of the Murray Street junction Transport Network, the Sturt Highway is a key at Yamba, located in South interstate trade and tourism route. Travelling through • extension to the acceleration lanes for westbound South Australia’s famous Riverland and Barossa traffic at Old Kapunda Road Australia near the Victorian Valley, the road carries a mix of tourist, freight, • removal or protection of roadside hazards between border, to improve safety, regional and local traffic. the Gawler Interchange and Murray Street. efficiency and amenity for Undertaken in four stages, the duplication of Project Director, Lou George said the duplication all road users. the 28.5 kilometre section between Gawler and > Workers preparing for the superway. is designed to provide a multitude of benefits Greenock began in January 2007. for South Australians. The new rest area will have interpretive The works not only saw duplication of the highway signage, acknowledgement of country sign, “Not only are we seeing an improvement in road from Main North Road at Gawler to Greenock Road landscaping and short and long term parking safety and the reliability of the road itself but also at Greenock to two lanes in each direction, but also areas. It will be landscaped, contain tables significant economic benefits driven by greater included physical separation of opposing traffic with and chairs, and information panels on the efficiency for freight movement,” he said. either Wire Rope Safety Barrier or a wide central local area – giving motorists an interesting median to reduce the incidence of head-on crashes. “We are also greatly enhancing amenity and access and attractive place to take a rest. to tourist destinations such as the Barossa Valley The construction of a two lane bridge over Main All vehicles entering South Australia are and the Riverland. North Road and rearrangement of access ramps at required to stop at the quarantine station, the Gawler Interchange has provided access to and “I’m proud of the way we have achieved these goals which helps to protect South Australia’s from all directions. while keeping the road open to traffic throughout $1.5 billion fresh fruit, vegetable, grape and construction and maintaining access for the local field crop industries from the introduction Road safety benefits are also being realised through community. of pests and diseases. access improvements at the Greenock interchange at Seppeltsfield Road and new ramps to ensure “I would like to say a very big thank you to the The new combined quarantine and weigh vehicles entering or leaving the Sturt Highway do not community for their patience and understanding station means that heavy vehicles can have to cross oncoming traffic. while we completed such an important transport be weighed and paperwork checked at the same time as participating in Elsewhere, a major road side rest area catering project.” the quarantine inspection. for up to 12 B-double trucks has been constructed Final asphalt surfacing works will be completed while the collective works are complemented by over the summer months.

delivering our transport future now www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au Spring 2010 15 badge of honour A long lost World War I ‘Returned from Active Service’ badge has been uncovered at a rail level crossing site - and we need your help to track down the rightful owner.

Contractor Daryl Copley was working on Cormack Road, Wingfield level crossing upgrade lifting away asphalt when he saw something shiny on the ground, initially disregarding it as a half penny. It wasn’t until he noticed the crown at the top and the markings indicating where a pin once was that he realised he had uncovered something far more. “I thought it was just a dinged up half penny at first, it’s about the same shape and size,” he said. “But it was the crown symbol that caught my attention and then on closer inspection I saw the Rising Sun emblem and some > A supervisor inspects Gawler line as part of the track upgrade program. defence engravings. “I couldn’t believe it – to think a WWI badge could have been buried beneath the asphalt for years like that.” staying on track It was later confirmed that his find was a WWI badge issued by the Department of Defence to Members of the Australian Planning for the remaining stages of track upgrade for the Gawler Defence Force in 1919 on their return to and Noarlunga rail lines is progressing well. Australia from active service overseas. The WWI soldier would have worn it proudly Tracksure, the consortia of John Holland, as the badge marked you as a Digger. Coleman Rail and York Civil, have now completed approximately 70% of the development of the Daryl Copley said he would love nothing track design for the whole network. more than to see the badge returned to its rightful owners. Project Director, Paul Burns said that over 50 kilometres of the track network has now been upgraded with Veterans SA, the RSL and the Army Museum concrete sleepers, with remaining track works due to of South Australia have been trying to research be complete by mid 2012. the identity of the soldier but, sadly, as the WWI Soldier would have passed on it is difficult “Over 250,000 new concrete sleepers, about 90% to trace the soldier and attempt to reunite of the total needed, have been manufactured and we’re the badge with the soldier’s family. now crushing ballast for the remaining works,” he said. If you have any information that may help us “We’re aiming to deliver the remaining track upgrades return this WWI badge to the Digger’s family, with least disruption to passengers. please contact Veterans SA on 8226 8552. “Similar to the successful upgrade of a large section of the Gawler line, we’ll be providing substitute bus > Jim Love from the Army Museum views the badge services that take Noarlunga line passengers to with Daryl Copley. their location along the fastest and most efficient bus route available. “While the bus service will obviously be slower than the rail journey, every effort is being made to make sure it replicates as closely as possible the stops and frequency of the existing rail service. “We’ll supply details of the alternative arrangements and timetables well in advance, so you can plan for the temporary changes to your travel arrangements.” The staging and timing of remaining track upgrades will be provided as soon as it is finalised with the contractor.

16 Spring 2010 faster more frequent greener more efficient rail revitalisation gawler

> The substitute bus service ran successfully during the recent closure on the Gawler line.

rail revitalisation gawler goes great guns noarlunga

Gawler rail line passengers have returned to their preferred form of transport, trains direct to the city centre from the Mawson Interchange, on a smoother, long-life, new track. what’s happened

But according to Project Director, Tim Warren highlight the rail service customers will enjoy when the > Stage 1 Gawler line upgrade 95% customer feedback suggests the substitute bus new rail is all down and electric trains are running on it. complete and re-opened to rail traffic. service exceeded expectations by providing an “Word got around about the quality of the substitute > Cormack Road, Pym Street and Hawker Street level crossings upgraded. efficient and direct alternative route to the city. bus service and as a result we saw an upward trend “Replacing the train service during the Gawler line in passenger numbers over time. closure was always going to be a challenge, so we “Passengers have understood the need for some what’s next were pleased to receive complimentary comments short-term inconvenience to gain a much more from passengers,” he said. modern and efficient train service in the longer-term. > Gawler and Noarlunga line track upgrade “The bus service was efficient because passengers “We thank customers for their patience and works will be completed by mid 2012. stepped off a train and walked a few metres to a understanding throughout this stage of the rail waiting bus going direct to the Adelaide Station. revitalisation project and for their positive feedback.” fast facts “It was a longer trip by bus, but that just serves to The line reopened on Monday 4 October 2010. Stage 1 of the Gawler line track upgrade included: > installation of over 37,000 gauge convertible concrete sleepers > removal of 40,000 tonnes of old ballast and soil. Line upgrades involve: > upgrading the track formation (base-layer) > installing new gauge-convertible concrete sleepers > improving stormwater drainage > refurbishing/replacing rail > minor works at some stations.

delivering our transport future now www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au Spring 2010 17 gp plus super clinic modbury Modbury is getting a new ‘super’ breed of health service that both the State and Australian governments want at the health frontline. Director GP Plus Healthcare Strategies, Lynn Klassmann says this GP Plus Super Clinic is being set up around what’s called a ‘hub’ and ‘spoke’ model – with the hub being at Modbury and the spoke at Gilles Plains. “The Modbury hub will provide a range of private GPs and allied health services while catering for chronic diseases and seeking to prevent health issues at their earliest stages’” she said “Complementing this, the Gilles Plains ‘spoke’ service will reach out to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and have a particular focus on children, their families and early intervention services.” Stage one of the Modbury GP Plus Super Clinic is due to be completed at the end of October 2010 and completion of the full project, including Gilles Plains, is expected by September 2011.

> Families will benefit from health and medical services offered at ‘super clinics’. northern gp plus elizabeth health hub The GP Plus Health Care Centre at Elizabeth will soon begin delivering comprehensive what’s happened health services to the people Construction is complete with services starting of Adelaide’s north. in an incremental manner. Project Manger, Wendy Sutton explains > The new tram wash under construction. services will come on-line progressively to what’s next ensure benefits are realised as soon as possible. “We’re starting with dental services and new look > Open dental services and Breastscreen SA. breast screening, and ultimately delivering > Start primary health care services. a full range of services to the local community,” she said. > Begin general practice services and health depot treatment clinics. “Having all these health services on one site means people will not need to be referred by a GP, they can just walk through the door or ring for an Glengowrie Tram Depot now fast facts appointment according to their health needs. has the tools to keep our “It’s all about providing a modern, high quality state-of-the-art trams in super- The GP Plus Health Care Centre at facility that provides a comprehensive range of shape with a new tram wash Elizabeth will: easily navigable health services – from the basic GP appointments through to more complex and repair shop almost ready > link acute, ambulatory and primary health and specialised support services. care providers as part of a major upgrade. “It’s great for the local community having > promote health and illness prevention all these easy-to-access health services right The second part of the works, starting in strategies on their doorstep – providing seamless 2011, is about housing staff who take care > provide a community resource for integrated health services for all.” of trams via a new operations facility that self-management of chronic diseases includes flexible and multi-use work spaces. The centre’s service model integrates GPs > increase teaching, training and educational with a broad range of allied health, ambulatory Elements of the new building will meet the opportunities. and primary health care, mental health, ‘five star’ energy rating level with energy drug and alcohol, specialist and other services efficient facilities and designs contributing to provide a holistic approach to health. to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

18 Spring 2010 faster more frequent greener more efficient new buses for busiest routes Commuters on Adelaide’s busiest bus routes are now enjoying more frequent services with 20 new buses in service across the city.

The latest batch of buses bolsters capacity on existing timetables and provides about 160 extra services – 90 extra services each week day and more than 70 extra weekend services. The new buses have been deployed on some of the city’s busiest routes including: • O-Bahn – 21 additional week day services, 45 additional weekend services • Main North Road – 31 additional week day services • Sir Donald Bradman Drive – 11 additional week day services • Glen Osmond Road – 28 additional weekend services. Other major routes to receive additional services include Prospect Road, Goodwood Road, Peachey Road, Torrens Road, Magill Road and Mt Barker Road. Buses carry about 75 per cent of Adelaide’s public transport users who since 2008 have been benefiting from a four year program bringing 20 extra buses on-line annually. That program has already delivered 60 new buses into service across Adelaide with another 20 to come next year. In addition to those, 30 more buses will come onto the network after July 2011 – 20 servicing the outer north and outer south and another 10 allocated to the busiest routes. The buses are also helping to support local jobs as part of a $118m contract awarded to Scania and > O-Bahn customers are enjoying an extra 21 weekday services. its Royal Park-based contractor Custom Coaches. innovation rewarded

> The Glenelg Tram Overpass has won multiple awards.

Community engagement efforts These awards encourage excellence, quality better understand the scale and scope on the Glenelg Tram Overpass and innovation in public participation, and recognise of the project,” he said. projects at the forefront of community engagement project have been recognised “We could experience the project from the across Australia and New Zealand. perspective of a resident, a pedestrian, a car at a national level. Project Director Paul Gelston said the project team’s driver and even a tram driver and passenger. The project was highly commended for its winning idea was to use animation technology. “And the project team used the technology public participation innovation at the annual “It was similar to a computer game and allowed as a design tool to make sure the overpass International Association for Public Participation community members to experience a virtual walk was as user-friendly as possible.” (IAP2) Australasia 2010 Core Values Awards. through of a 3D interactive model, so they could delivering our transport future now www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au Spring 2010 19 world’s best meeting place The riverbank precinct, located in a picturesque setting between the River Torrens and the city, is the focus of an exciting set of proposals that, if realised, would change the face of Adelaide forever.

As a first step industry was invited to submit The redevelopment of the Adelaide Convention Those bidding were encouraged to their credentials and ideas to redevelop one Centre will ensure the facility continues to compete investigate links with the broader riverbank of South Australia’s most valuable assets nationally and internationally for events and precinct, including with the Festival Centre, – the Adelaide Convention Centre. conventions. It will include: Intercontinental Hotel, Sky City Casino and the redeveloped Adelaide Oval and new Royal The redevelopment is an integral part of unlocking • an additional 4,200 square metres of Adelaide Hospital. the potential of the city’s riverbank precinct. multi-purpose convention floor space Stage one of the Convention Centre The registration of interest process called • replacement of the original plenary building is expected to be complete in 2014 with on industry to assemble teams with a strong and provision of a new 2,500-3,000 seat stage two on-line 12-18 months later. commitment to excellence in design and a vision meeting facility for expanding the facility, so it maximises the • additional meeting rooms and supporting functional and economic potential of the area. infrastructure.

> The riverbank precinct will be transformed into Adelaide’s most exciting destination.

for further information please contact: visit us online:

dry creek rail car depot 1300 782 454 seaford rail extension 1800 791 883 New Connections is now available glengowrie tram depot 1300 782 454 south road superway 1300 638 789 in an easy-to-read online format featuring bonus interactive and northern expressway 1300 658 621 southern expressway 1300 626 097 multimedia features. Simply visit: rail revitalisation 1300 782 454 www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au and rail electrification 1300 782 454 Printed on carbon-neutral accredited paper click on the New Connections image.

www.infrastructure.sa.gov.au Spring 2010 20