St Helena Secondary College Gymnasium

With extensive experience in the education sector, FIMMA was awarded the contract by The VSBA to build this new 1,000 sqm state-of-the-art, competition-grade gymnasium, inclusive of new amenities and storage areas.

The scope of works included the demolition of an existing shed and associated ground slab, pathways and inground services, followed by construction of the new gymnasium. Key features of the new building include a structural timber frame, specialist sports flooring system over timber subfloor, retractable basketball hoops and backboards, internal plywood panelling, insulated panel cladding, and polycarbonate cladding to allow maximum natural light through the South facing facade.

The main architectural feature of the project and a critical construction component, was the installation of 22 main LVL timber columns, LVL bracing, roof beams, and engineered connections with the steel framing. Working outward from the first portal frame, each LVL timber column was partially bolted to the steel rafters and baseplate prior to lifting each into place and connecting to all corresponding footings.

The location of the new gymnasium is deep within the school ground via a new narrow concrete road which FIMMA also constructed. This required careful navigating between existing sports courts, running track, portable classrooms, and an existing gymnasium. Our team developed detailed safety plans and weekly programmes in continuous communication with school representatives to achieve all works with minimum impact to school activities.

During construction, additional scope was added to include the installation of new tiered landscaping, seating, entry deck and new concrete access paths to the front of the gymnasium.