Proposal for critical safety works for the continued safe operation of the National Education Centre for the Great Barrier Reef, Reef HQ

Statement of Evidence to the

Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Works

Townsville, Qld

February 2020

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 1 of 23 Contents Summary ...... 4 Purpose of the proposed works ...... 4 Identification of the Need ...... 4 Background ...... 4 Need for the work ...... 5 Description of the Proposal ...... 6 Options considered ...... 6 Other issues ...... 6 Heritage or geographical considerations ...... 6 Environmental impact assessments ...... 7 Key legislation ...... 7 Anticipated impacts on local community and mitigation measures ...... 7 Stakeholder consultations and resolution of concerns ...... 7 Scope of Works ...... 8 Details and reasons for project location ...... 8 Description of works ...... 8 Structural ...... 8 Mechanical services ...... 11 Electrical services ...... 12 Security measures ...... 12 Fire protection ...... 13 Materials and furnishings ...... 13 Hydraulic services ...... 13 Civil Works ...... 13 Other types of works ...... 14 Environmental sustainability...... 14 Energy targets ...... 14 Measures to reduce energy and water use ...... 14 Re-use of existing structures ...... 14 Demolition and disposal of existing structures ...... 14 Master and site planning, including details of future developments ...... 14 Provisions for people with disabilities ...... 15 Childcare provisions ...... 15 Work health safety measures...... 15 Any components which fall outside the required scope of works but which may be included later, pending available funds ...... 15 Cost effectiveness and public value ...... 16 Outline of project costs ...... 16 Details of the project delivery method ...... 16

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 2 of 23 Risks ...... 16 Construction program ...... 17 Public value ...... 17 Revenue ...... 18 Appendix 1. Photos of some of the key elements of the proposed works ...... 19

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 3 of 23 Proposal for critical safety works for the continued safe operation of the National Education Centre for the Great Barrier Reef, Reef HQ Summary 1. The Australian Government, represented by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (the Authority), is responsible for the care and development of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. 2. This submission by the Authority provides evidence to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Works (PWC) on the proposed critical safety works to ensure the continued safe operation of the National Education Centre for the Great Barrier Reef, Reef HQ (the proposed works). 3. Ageing and increasingly unreliable assets continue to impact the Australian Government’s capacity to safely and effectively provide education and informational services at Reef HQ to inform the local, regional, national and internal community about the Great Barrier Reef, the management in place to protect and conserve it as well as what people can do locally to help the Reef. 4. The proposed works will provide a significant positive impact by addressing safety and operational risks to the Australian Government and ensuring the adequacy of critical infrastructure. The proposed works will also promote the continued social and economic benefits to the local community.

Purpose of the proposed works 5. The proposal will address identified safety and operational concerns associated with Reef HQ’s ageing infrastructure, in order to allow for the facility’s continued safe operation. This in turn will allow for the continued provision of the provision of educational and informational services to the wider community.

Identification of the Need Background 6. Reef HQ was opened in 1987 as a bi-centennial community project to create a living example of a on land, a place to showcase science and deliver education about marine science, heritage and other Reef values. It had an expected life of 25 – 50 years. After 32 years in a harsh tropical climate, physical deterioration has reached the point where serious risks are emerging and supporting infrastructure is now in many ways not compliant with current Australian standards. 7. Reef HQ is the Australian Government's "National Education Centre for the Great Barrier Reef" and is recognised nationally and internationally as a centre of excellence in environmental education. The education programs at Reef HQ provide a highly efficient mechanism for influencing community perceptions about the Reef on all scales (local, regional, national and international). Reef HQ facilitates such programs and is essential for the Authority to achieve its

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 4 of 23 strategic policy outcome of providing for educational and information services in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act 1975. Reef HQ provides a living example of the Great Barrier Reef and is accessible to people of all ages and physical abilities. 8. Reef HQ is located in the central business district of Townsville, (Figure 1).

Figure 1. Location map of Reef HQ in Townsville, .

9. The Australian Government owns all of Reef HQ’s assets including the building and all equipment to maintain the world’s largest living coral reef . The land upon which the building sits is leased from the Port of Townsville Ltd. 10. The works address a backlog of Reef HQ asset replacement and management. The works are directed to address the existing structural, mechanical and electrical safety risks. The works include funding to: i. Replace building structural elements including corroded steel and address concrete cancer, resolving serious safety issues for both employees and members of the public; ii. Schedule and undertake an asset renewal program to bring mechanical and electrical infrastructure up to current standards, addressing work health safety concerns in the process; and iii. Resolve energy, security and structural issues. Need for the work 11. After 32 years of operation, the future maintenance of Reef HQ have become critical. 12. A 2019 asset management plan for Reef HQ states that “many of the asset groups have a weighted condition of marginal or very poor (at or past end of useful life).” Ageing assets continue to be a key risk to safety or service provision. 13. A 2018 independent asset assessment and management plan has identified significant and urgent asset repair and refurbishment requirements to ensure the facility’s structural integrity and that Authority meets its duty of care to provide a safe and structurally sound facility for both workers and the visiting public. According to this plan “the structural assets and fixtures and fittings of Reef HQ are in an overall marginal condition for a building of its age, as the building is subject to an aggressive environment both internally and externally.” Continued deterioration of the facility since these expert assessments has increased the safety risks and cost of rectification. The overall assessment was that there were some elements in excellent condition, and others in

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 5 of 23 poor condition; however, there were no issues that could not be resolved by either repair or renewal.

Description of the Proposal 14. In order to address the safety and operational concerns identified in the previous section, a variety of replacement, upgrade, decommissioning and disposal works are proposed. 15. The proposed works are categorised into three project elements, based on asset type: a. Structural b. Mechanical c. Electrical d. Fire Systems e. Security Systems 16. The infrastructure works proposed reflect the key operational and maintenance requirements of Reef HQ.

Options considered 17. The options considered were (i) to fix the ageing infrastructure to allow for ongoing operation of the facility or (ii) to close the facility. 18. The Australian Government owns Reef HQ, but not the land on which it resides. The Port of Townsville Ltd is the owner of the land and leased the land to the Authority until 2061. If the facility was to close the Australian Government would be responsible for the demolition and clearing of the site so that it could be returned to the Port. 19. In this case, plant and equipment is likely to attract a fraction of its asset value on resale. Most assets would not be resalable and would have to be destroyed. 20. Reef HQ has in excess of 100,000 marine animals on display and the coral reef exhibit is based on living substrate that is home to millions of marine creatures. The permit conditions under which the facility operates does not allow for their re-sale. Animals would have to be donated to other zoos or aquaria or euthanized. Bio-security regulations would require the treatment and proper disposal of over four million litres of water and reef structure costing hundreds of thousands of dollars. 21. Prior to closure, some of the same critical safety works would be required to ensure the facility is safe to operate prior to closure and safe for workers during decommissioning. 22. Closure would have a negative impact on the Townsville economy and community. Reef HQ is an important tourist attraction in North Queensland with a local membership base of more than eight per cent of Townsville’s population and annual visitation of more than 140,000 people. Supported by a Volunteer Association with more than 100 volunteers, Reef HQ provides an opportunity for community engagement with volunteers contributing in excess of 12,000 hours each year.

Other issues Heritage or geographical considerations 23. There are no heritage considerations associated with the facility.

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 6 of 23 24. Townsville is located in the tropics and hence is prone to severe weather events such as floods or cyclones. These will have to be managed as part of a program of works. On current timeframes, the majority of works would occur after the 2021 wet season, thus minimising the potential impacts of cyclones or severe rain events. Environmental impact assessments 25. The works will occur on the existing facility and in accordance with relevant local and Queensland legislation. It is not anticipated that any impacts to the surrounding built environment will occur as a result of these works. 26. The works are not required to be referred under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 as there will be no significant impact on matters of national environmental significance from the proposed work. Key legislation 27. Key legislation that applies to the critical safety works include local and Queensland requirements as well as ensuring compliance with the National Construction Code and the Commonwealth’s Work Health Safety Act 2011. Anticipated impacts on local community and mitigation measures 28. Reef HQ is likely to require temporary closure during the larger safety works. It is anticipated that this will being in early 2021 for up to 12 months. 29. Current membership of Reef HQ represents approximately eight per cent of the Townsville population. Membership packages sold in 2020 for new and renewing memberships will be sold at a pro-rata rate. The pro-rata monthly discount has been determined by taking the difference between an annual family membership and a daily family admission ticket, and dividing by the months remaining before the proposed closure. This information has already been communicated to members. 30. Existing agreements with ticketing agents, members of Reef HQ and contractors will be informed of the temporary closure of the facility while the major critical safety works occur. Contingency is already being built into contracts and agreements. 31. Due to the impact the redevelopment will have on the community, employment and regional tourism a marketing and media campaign will be steered effectively by a professional Public Relations Consultant. Stakeholder consultations and resolution of concerns 32. Reef HQ has already advised all members, voucher and ticketing agents and the broader Townsville community that advanced notice will be provided in relation to paid memberships and agreements / contracts in place. 33. The Authority will use its existing social and traditional media channels to ensure all members, voucher and ticketing agents and the broader Townsville community are kept abreast of closure, works progress and grand re-opening of the facility. 34. A specialist public relations consultant will be engaged to provide advice on the best way to manage communications to Reef HQ members, the local community, voucher and ticking agents.

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 7 of 23 35. During the temporary closure, ongoing staff at Reef HQ will still be required to maintain animal life support systems, feed animals and maintain tanks. Business operation staff will work to plan for the re-opening including updating website and membership platforms as well as providing updates to the wider community. Casual retail and education staff will not have any shifts because the front reception, the gift shop and the café will be closed and there will be no guided tours of the facility. Casual staff that undertake maintenance diving may or may not have shits allocated to them depending on business operational needs. Messages around the temporary closure will continue to be disseminated amongst all relevant Reef HQ staff.

Scope of Works Details and reasons for project location 36. The purpose of the project is to address identified safety and operational concerns associated with Reef HQ’s ageing infrastructure, and as such, the works relate to demolition, replacement and upgrade of assets within the Reef HQ facility in Townsville. 37. As identified previously, Reef HQ is currently operating in its 1987 facility. All works are considered the most appropriate and efficient methods (i) to ensure the structural longevity of a highly valued Australian Government asset, the world’s largest living aquarium exhibit of an example of a real coral reef ecosystem; (ii) to mitigate negative impacts of a tropical climate on the captive reef environment, and (iii) to increase the operational efficiency of the facility and maximise its business potential. Description of works 38. The works proposed to be delivered under the project comprise a variety of replacement, upgrade, decommissioning and disposal works. The proposed works are categorised into project elements, based on asset type: a. Structural b. Mechanical c. Electrical d. Fire Systems e. Security Systems Structural 39. Concrete and structural works will occur including the following items to ensure rectification of work health safety concerns. The scope and extend of some works can only be determined once destructive investigations take place (such as de-watering the main Predator Exhibit tank). 40. Repairs and waterproofing are required to several external structural walls and internal rooms due to concrete corrosion as a result of years of heat, humidity and / or saltwater ingress. a. External wall (Ross Creek) - Repairs are required to the external wall on the Ross Creek side. This wall has noticeable block work shifting and as it houses the wave machine that creates the natural sea state in the Coral Reef Exhibit. It is a critical structure requiring repair.

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 8 of 23 b. Holding tank Nib wall - The nib wall of the Holding Tank (25m long) and other main tank structures require repair. This tank is used to cycle 750,000 litres of estuary water each fortnight for treatment and subsequent water changes through all tanks. c. Pump room waterproofing - Waterproofing is required to the pump rooms throughout the facility. This minimises the risk of further saltwater corrosion to structures and concrete. d. Substation replacement - The substation walls are in a state of disrepair and are at risk of collapse – noted by Comcare as requiring immediate action. Rectifying this item resolves both a major safety risk and ensures energy security. The loss of the substation could trigger mortality events for the exhibits including the loss of the world’s largest living coral reef exhibit. 41. Several exhibits require significant upgrades to create safer workplaces and replace obsolete materials. a. Replacement of acrylic viewing panes: Initial installation of viewing windows in Reef HQ’s two largest exhibits (coral reef exhibit; predator tank) were designed in line with engineering capabilities available 32 years ago. The existing exhibit has acrylic that is beyond all known life expectancy. Since original construction in 1987 materials and technology have made significant advances. Consistently our visitors provide feedback that they would “love to see more of the reef as it is so awe-inspiring.” The exhibits need acrylic and sealant repairs, a significant overhaul of this and the entire water-proofing of the exhibits is now required. With just under four million litres of saltwater across both exhibits and the Holding Tank, over time deterioration of the acrylic seals, steel mullions and some concrete structures has resulted in leaks in many places. These leaks affect the structural integrity of the exhibit and also Reef HQ’s tunnel centrepiece. Further, there are associated costs with drying, shampooing and replacing carpets constantly wet from leaks. b. Relocating the Turtle Hospital - The Turtle Hospital is one of the most popular exhibits at Reef HQ. However, to access the hospital, visitors, staff and volunteers have to either walk down the side of a road with no sidewalk and come into the facility through part of the workshop or go through the entire workshop. The asset management plan outlines that the exhibit “ cannot always meet demand and is generally in poor condition.” This means visitors are cramped into a small area around several tanks and work areas associated with the Hospital. The Hospital is also associated with our large animal isolation facilities which often require biosecurity quarantine. c. Replacement of ’shipwreck’ heritage exhibit - The heritage ‘shipwreck’ exhibit showcases a variety of marine life around a replica of the Yongala wreck. In recent years, the condition of the wreck has significantly deteriorated and now presents a risk to both our divers and the tank inhabitants. The structure is deteriorating and beginning to slowly fall down. 42. Several structural works are required on the roof of Reef HQ. These include: a. Covering the Coral Reef Exhibit (CRE) - The installation of a re-tractable transparent cover over the CRE, will minimise the impact of rainfall and severe weather events. In turn this will

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 9 of 23 reduce the need for staff to come into the facility and access the outside deck in monsoonal rains to load salt into the exhibit. b. Gantry crane - Reef HQ has a gantry crane that is used to raise and lower the research vessel, lift and move large animals, transfer pallets of salt from the wharf to the roof, etc. This crane is supported by eighteen structural posts. There are now 12 posts that support both the building and provide a frame on which the Gantry Crane operates that require replacement due to corrosion of metal in close proximity to saltwater. c. Waterproof membrane - The membrane that covers the Observation deck (exposed rooftop surrounding tanks housing coral propagation, dive shed, isolation tanks etc.) is badly worn and requires replacement. Currently when it rains the membrane leaks severely including into a public area. d. Generator Room - The generator room (on the observation deck/rooftop) requires rectification of failing concrete and steel structures, which have deteriorated in the aggressive marine environment. e. Dive Gear/Dressing Shed - The existing shed requires replacement as the structures supporting it are failing and it provides inadequate storage; gear is exposed to the elements and deteriorates quickly; amenities are not included e.g. showers and wash down; and there is no temperature control for sensitive dive equipment and oxygen cylinders. f. Steel canopy - The steel canopy on the Observation Deck requires repair due to years of saltwater corrosion and exposure to the tropical weather. This canopy currently supports a number of solar panels that are part of our power station set-up. It also provides shade in the tropical climate for workers undertaking dive and animal care duties. g. Walkways, Ladders, Gantries and edge protection - Recently identified is the need to replace and update a variety of ladders, pathways and barriers in order to comply with work health safety requirements. h. Dive supervisor hub - A 2018-2019 review of the Authority’s Dive Operations Manual recommended that AS/NZS 229.1:2015 be used as the primary reference for the standard of occupational diving operations within the manual. The review also recommended that immediate action be taken to implement direct supervision of diving at Reef HQ and all Dive Plans and emergency procedures identify the role of the supervisor and duties pre, during and post diving and in the event of an emergency. To have ‘eyes on’ supervision requires a sun- safe facility for a diver supervisor to be able to oversee the predator and coral reef exhibit tanks for up to five hours at a time. 43. Additional internal works and adjacent external areas require updating to meet building, construction and work health safety codes and standards, including: a. Connectivity Exhibit Area- This exhibit was last refurbished in 2006 and is past its end-of- life. The behind the scenes pump and life support systems areas pose safety concerns for employees as the access gantries are failing, with poor access to aquarium tanks; they are in cramped areas, poorly ventilated and poorly lit.

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 10 of 23 b. Staff amenities - Refurbish staff amenities which are non-compliant with RMG500 and are have slip issues, drainage issues, are tired and difficult to clean. c. Person with disability toilet - Currently the public amenities inside Reef HQ are located on the 1st Floor, this is not always accessible for all patrons (e.g. during a power outage the lifts would not work) and hence compliance for mobility patrons is not being met at all times. To improve accessibility and ensure those with mobility challenges are catered for, there is an identified need to install a unisex, person-with-disability toilet on the ground floor. d. Workshop - The workshop is out dated and in some areas non-compliant with current Codes and Standards. Visitors pass the workshop space to visit the Turtle Hospital, which at present has no barriers (other than visual aids) to prevent access. The space requires a professional fit-out with efficient storage with modern and safe functionality to make it compliant with safety standards for visitor access as well as worker use including upgrading workshop tools and equipment. e. Passenger lift - The existing passenger lift was installed in 2016. The current lift pit leaks and has damaged the new lift. The asset management plan recommended an additional passenger lift for service to the observation deck and for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC 2019). f. Skip enclosure - Installing an enclosure for skip bins currently located on the street provides both a clean exterior appearance and ensures security of the bins. Securing these bins will mean members of the public cannot access them and will address security incidents associated with unauthorised access that have occurred in the past two years. Mechanical services 44. Several mechanical devices are required to be upgraded to address critical work health safety concerns. These include: a. Replacing air conditioning units - The asset management plan identified that the Air Handling Units (AHUs) numbered 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 were in very poor (units 4-5) to fair condition (units 6-8). Three AHUs have been recently replaced and four AHUs are due for replacement and would be scheduled across the length of the project. b. Replacing Coral Reef Exhibit and Predator Exhibit Sand Filters and Coral Reef Exhibit Protein Skimmer - To facilitate the construction and installation of the new main switchboard and padmount transformer as well as to rectify component obsolescence, the existing coral reef exhibit sand filters need to be relocated and elements require replacement. Sand filters keep saltwater clean and remove waster material. The Coral Reef Exhibit protein skimmers require relocation and replacement. c. Waste water and biosecurity - The waste water systems are currently inadequate with some pump rooms and other wet areas do not having floor drainage. To ensure that drainage and biosecurity systems are compliant with building code and environmental requirements work is required to install and in places replace wastewater systems. In at least two places it is likely that drainage will need to run through the creek wall and this significantly increases the complexity due to the risk of a creek wall collapsing (see #40(a)).

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 11 of 23 d. Behind the internal exhibit facades are pump and work spaces - The existing access to the Coral Reef Exhibit filtration equipment is cramped, poorly ventilated and poorly lit. Works will occur to fabricate and install a fibre reinforced plastic mezzanine for safe access. e. Variable speed drives, field devices, mechanical control systems - These mechanical control system and other field devices ensure the efficient function of the chilling and animal life support systems. These systems have been assessed in the asset management plan as being in poor condition. New air blowers and variable speed drives are required for the Wave Machine (a critical part of the animal life support system). f. C-Bus Lighting Control System - Lighting systems are controlled via a C-Bus systems to ensure efficient function and maximise energy efficiency and link into the building management system. This ensures any faults trigger an alarm that can then be investigated. The existing C-Bus System is at end-of-life. Electrical services 45. The majority of electrical infrastructure is nearly 30 years old and reaching the limits of reliable operation. An independent contractor was engaged by Reef HQ to undertake an electrical inspection of the equipment within the main switchroom, and evaluate compliance with the AS3000 standard. Numerous safety and compliance issues were documented in this report. 46. The rectification works include: a. Main switchboard, field distribution boards and cabling - The main switchboard requires replacement and moving to a new plant room. This also includes replacing all field distribution boards and cabling throughout. The existing main switchboard location is unsafe, noncompliant and flood prone. There is severe structural damage including walls separating from supporting structures allowing direct ingress of rain and/or sunlight. The switchboard currently sits on framework that is severely corroded and at risk of collapse. b. Electrical supply - Fabrication and installation of padmount (or similar) transformer and decommissioning of the existing substation site is required. c. Mechanical switchboards – The installation or replacement of 8-10 mechanical services field switchboards due to inadequate function, poor condition due to age and degradation associated with being housed in high humidity saltwater environment. d. Cabling and Cable Tray – Communications and other cable runs throughout the facility need to be replaced and new cabling installed. Old and/or redundant cabling needs to be removed. Fibre-network connections – a fibre backbone has been installed and now requires junction connection and breakout points to be installed to be compliant. 47. The Ergon Energy substation that provides power to Reef HQ and other entities nearby is located on a sublease at the Reef HQ site. The substation needs to be relocated to facilitate relocation of the main switchboard as part of repair work, and continued visitor access to the facility while major capital works are carried out on the adjacent land. Security measures 48. Reef HQ will undertake a complete upgrade of its security systems.

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 12 of 23 49. A security assessment conducted in 2016 recommended the installation of CCTV, access control and deterrents. During 2017/18, advice from Queensland Police Service (on a number of occasions) was that the lack of CCTV coverage resulted in them being unable to prosecute liquor, assault and theft charges. There have been incidents where visitor safety has been affected, including a domestic violence assault inside Reef HQ. Fire protection 50. Reef HQ’s fire hydrant system will need to be upgraded to meet current standards as a condition of certification of the repair and relocation of the main switchboard and developing a temporary entrance while demolition and construction on the adjacent land occurs. 51. In response to a 2017 report the Reef HQ fire detection system and its associated building occupant warning system system was replaced. In 2018 the report showed the existing system was not functioning properly and was at the end of its life. An inspection by Queensland Fire and Emergency Services in early 2019 indicated that wet fire systems were insufficient to meet current requirements. In April 2019, the wet fire-fighting equipment was found to be not compliant with National Construction Code of Australia 2019 requiring a new fire hydrant booster system to be installed. This includes the external placement of the booster and internal hydrants and piping throughout the facility. The emergency lighting systems require review and replacement. 52. All construction and fire protection requirements will be in accordance with the provisions of the National Construction Code and all other applicable Codes and Standards. Materials and furnishings 53. Some materials and furnishings will be replaced as part of the retrofit actions (Structural, Electrical and Mechanical) detailed in previous sections. Hydraulic services 54. Some hydraulic services will be modified, replaced or repaired as part of the retrofit actions detailed in previous sections including relocation of a stormwater drain (involves consultation and permissions from Townsville City Council); mains water supply for the purpose of installing a new fire hydrant system (involves consultation and permissions from Townsville City Council) and modification to the reticulated mains water supply through the building to ensure efficiency and compliance with the NCC 2019. Modifications to the chilling systems may involve modifications to hydraulic services. Changes to existing or new amenities may involve modifications to hydraulic services. Civil Works 55. Civil works are required: a. To install new foundation piles for a new electrical main switchroom; b. for the relocation of the NBN supply cabling (with NBN Co); c. for modification to underground services as part of the works detailed above; and d. for the relocation and replacement of the Ergon Transformer to a padmount arrangement (involves consultation and permissions from Energy Queensland – Ergon).

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 13 of 23 Other types of works 56. The following types of work are may be associated with this proposal: a. Acoustics – only if these measures are required to comply with the NCC 2019 b. Landscaping – may be required to ensure safe public access to the Reef HQ Entrance. Environmental sustainability 57. A key Authority project requirement is to deliver a sustainable outcome for the Australian Government by improving the safety and efficiency of the existing Reef HQ facility where efficient and sustainability in the built environment principles are incorporated into the upgrade of existing and new infrastructure and where removal of unnecessary infrastructure, which presents safety hazards and ongoing maintenance liability, is required. Energy targets 58. There are no applicable energy targets for this proposal, except to as a minimum, maintain a 50% reduction in energy use from the 2007 baseline. 59. Nevertheless, the upgrades will improve energy efficiency and power monitoring and control. Measures to reduce energy and water use 60. Due to the nature of the proposed works, no discrete measures to reduce energy or water use are applicable. 61. However, all works will consider ways to improve efficiency and water use. Re-use of existing structures 62. Re-use of existing infrastructure has been considered where appropriate throughout the design development and options review process. 63. To the extent possible, existing structures will be retained and fixed. However, given the state of deterioration in some walls, this is not always going to be possible. In recent times as smaller items are undergoing rectification (e.g. doors), corrosion on inner steel supports for them are found to be in a state of disrepair and require significant works to stabilise and rectify. Demolition and disposal of existing structures 64. Any demolition of existing structures (e.g. concrete walls) and materials (e.g. doors) is dealt with in accordance with local and State government disposal requirements and all applicable standards and codes. Master and site planning, including details of future developments 65. The Authority is in the process of developing a Master Plan for Reef HQ. However, there is no intent on behalf of the Commonwealth, or at the recommendation of key stakeholders, that this facility be closed; particularly given the importance of the facility to educating and informing people about the Great Barrier Reef and the facility’s importance to the local Townsville tourism economy. 66. The proposed works are consistent with existing land usage 67. The proposed works will contribute to broader development in the immediate vicinity of Reef HQ. Reef HQ is at the epicentre of the Townsville City Waterfront Priority Development Area’s

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 14 of 23 Research and Tourism Precinct. The Waterfront project is a catalyst project for the revitalisation of the Townsville City Centre, which will take shape over the next 15 to 20 years. The motivation for the project was drawn from the ‘Townsville City Plan’ and ‘Townsville CBD Master Plan’, which emphasised the need for the city centre to reconnect with its waterfront. 68. Reef HQ supports the Townsville 2020 vison to create world-class experiences which drive economic growth through new investment and greater tourism spending. 69. Both the derelict office space directly adjacent to Reef HQ as well as a greenfield site for office space on the opposite side of the road are ear-marked for redevelopment as office and retail space. They are critical aspects to support the reinvigoration of the Townsville CBD and should activate space for public enjoyment and concomitant visitation to Reef HQ. 70. Townsville is the site of Australia’s first City Deal, which is a 15 year commitment between the Commonwealth of Australia, the State of Queensland and the Townsville City Council for a collective program of planning, reform and investment in Townsville. 71. The redevelopment of Reef HQ has been identified in Townsville Enterprises’ Product and Experience Development Plan 2019-2024. This Plan sets the strategic direction and outlines the priority projects for Townsville North Queensland’s tourism industry. 72. The critical safety works at Reef HQ plays a foundational role in support all of these planning schemes. Provisions for people with disabilities 73. In accordance with the National Construction Code – Building Code of Australia 2019, the nature of proposed works are not required to provide access for people with a disability. Childcare provisions 74. Due to the nature of the proposed works, there is no requirement for additional childcare facilities. Work health safety measures 75. The facility proposed to be delivered under this project will comply with the Authority’s Work Health Safety Manual and the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth). 76. The facility is not known to contain any contaminated substances, such as asbestos. 77. In accordance with the Building and Construction Industry (Consequential and Transitional Provisions) Act 2016 (Cth), for works greater than $4 million, contractors will also be required to hold full work health and safety accreditation from the Office of the Federal Safety Commissioner under the Australian Government Building and Construction Work Health and Safety Accreditation Scheme. 78. Safety aspects of this proposal have been and will continue to be addressed during the design process and will be documented in the Safety in Design Report completed by a Design Consultant. The successful construction contractors will also be required to submit respective Safety Plans for the construction phase prior to the start of any construction activities. Any components which fall outside the required scope of works but which may be included later, pending available funds 79. N/A

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 15 of 23 Cost effectiveness and public value Outline of project costs 80. The estimated out-turned cost of this project is $26.9 million, excluding Goods and Service Tax. The cost estimate includes the construction costs, management and design fees and contingencies. 81. Net operating costs resulting from the proposed project will decrease due to the construction of new infrastructure and removal of redundant inoperable infrastructure. Details of the project delivery method 82. A Project Manager will be engaged by the Commonwealth to manage the design phase through to completion of 100% design. 83. A Project Manager and Contract Administrator will be appointed to manage the procurement and construction phase of the project through to the completion of construction, including the Defects Liability Period. 84. Subject to Parliamentary approval of the project, the works will progress under a single Head Contract arrangement with specialist subcontractors where required. Internal Project Governance 85. The General Manager responsible for Reef HQ is the project sponsor and will report to the Authority’s Chief Executive Officer, Executive Management Group and the Marine Park Authority Board. 86. A Project Steering Committee comprising relevant staff with technical expertise will be established to oversee the specifications for the proposed works and to oversee communications with affected staff as well as external stakeholders. 87. An expert in managing complex construction projects will be employed to be the main point of contact with a Head Contractor. Risks 88. The main risks associated with the proposed works are in relation to weather; the need to maintain animals and their life support systems will works occur around the exhibits; and to maintain failing infrastructure and machines until they can be rectified or replaced. 89. To address weather risks, it is proposed that temporary closure of Reef HQ will occur in early 2021 to allow the majority of works to occur after the wet season and be completed prior to the following wet season. 90. Under current permits held by Reef HQ, animals and other specimens cannot be sold. Therefore, to address the maintenance of animals and their life support systems, existing staff will maintain those exhibits that cannot be moved to other facilities (such as the largest coral reef exhibit in the world). Where possible animals will be housed offsite at facilities capable of having suitable aquarium systems. If possible, existing staff may be seconded to those facilities to look after the animals (this will be part of the planning associated with closure to ensure the welfare of animals is maintained). 91. Existing maintenance regimes will focus on supporting failing infrastructure and machines to the greatest extent possible. Work programs may have to alter if critical failures occur. By having the

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 16 of 23 works program be coordinated through a single entity, there is greater ability to modify the works schedule to cater for such events. Construction program 92. Subject to Parliamentary approval of the project, works expected to commence in 2020, with staged completion of the facilities occurring from then until the end of 2022. 93. Anticipated key milestone dates, subject to Parliamentary approval of the project, are provided in Table 1 and are subject to the complete construction works schedule to be finalised. Table 1. Anticipated key milestone dates Stage Task Completion target date 1 Head contractor engagement 30/06/2020 2 Temporary closure of facility 01/02/2021 3 Construction complete 31/11/2021 4 End of head contractor defects liability period 31/12/2022

94. The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority has undertaken similar works over the 32 year history of the facility. However, the need to undertake the significant volume of works means greater expertise beyond existing staff will be required. Therefore the engagement of a construction management specialist is part of the proposed works. Public value 95. By undertaking the critical safety works, Reef HQ will be able to continue to operate. It will strengthen the Townsville region’s position in the domestic tourism market by providing a gateway experience for Townsville. 96. The facility employs in excess of 50 Townsville locals comprised on a mix of full time, casual and contract staff. In 2017-18, Reef HQ procured $1.1 million in services from local businesses for the operation and maintenance of the facility. 97. Reef HQ currently has in excess of 15,000 members, more than eight per cent of Townsville’s population. Visitation is approximately 140,000 per annum, generating approximately $2.5 million per annum. 98. Refurbishing Reef HQ would serve to strengthen the Townsville region’s position in the domestic tourism market by providing a gateway experience for Townsville. The Townsville Region has been recognised by Trade and Investment Queensland as a destination of excellence for international education and training, particularly in the area of faculty led study abroad programs from the USA and Singapore. Reef HQ was a founding member of the Townsville North Queensland edu-tourism initiative and is considered critical to its ongoing success. 99. Working internationally, Reef HQ actively supports destinational marketing campaigns through domestic and international media promoting the Great Barrier Reef, Queensland and Townsville, reaching more than 8 million people. 100. Reef HQ’s education outreach program that connects a diver in the coral reef and predator exhibits to schools and conventions around the world was launched in 1997 and engages more than 10,000 people each year.

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 17 of 23 101. Reef HQ’s in-house and outreach education, research and animal husbandry programs have achieved international recognition including: a. world firsts in captive breeding, with our olive sea snakes reproducing over successive years and our Leopard Sharks reproducing through parthenogenesis, and b. being the only Australian education facility (in 2018-19) to win the Centre for Interactive Learning and Collaboration (www.cilc.org) Pinnacle Award, our 11th win out of 12 entries. 102. Reef HQ showcases renewable energy systems and sustainability innovations (e.g. fibre reinforced plastic beams as structural posts) and provides a direct example for visitors on the choices that can be made at home, in the workplace and in business to reduce impacts on the reef. Revenue 103. The proposed works are not proposed to be revenue producing. They are solely about critical safety requirements. However, the ability to maintain public access to Reef HQ means that the partial cost recovery achieved by the facility each financial year will continue. Financial details about the revenue raised from Reef HQ are published annually in the Authority’s annual reports tabled in Parliament.

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 18 of 23 Appendix 1. Photos of some of the key elements of the proposed works

Some of the acrylic windows of the coral reef exhibit and the steel mullion. There are 5 such double windows that requiring replacement

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 19 of 23 Observation deck

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 20 of 23 Protein skimmers

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 21 of 23 Rooftop requiring edge protection / water proofing

Plant room

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 22 of 23 Workshop

Reef HQ Critical Safety Works – Public Works Committee Referral Page 23 of 23